Director of Special Education Grades K-8

Christopher Columbus Charter School is currently accepting applications for the role of Director of Special Education.

This position is a 12-month role serving two locations in the heart of South Philadelphia.

The Director of Special Education is responsible for the leadership and coordination of Christopher Columbus Charter School's Special Education program for grades K through 8. The individual will develop and implement program policies and procedures, oversee compliance with federal and state regulations, and ensure an inclusive and supportive educational environment for students requiring learning support, emotional support, autistic support, and specialized services.

Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership and direction to support the Special Education classroom program with a focus on integration, inclusion, and learning opportunities for diverse learners.
• Ensure that Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans for students with special needs are developed, implemented, and monitored effectively.
• Serve as secondary manager for the Special Education team including SPED teachers, therapists, and support staff that provide supportive services to students with IEP's and 504 plans.
• Plan and implement program goals and objectives for the special education program while maintaining an awareness of current laws, policies, and regulations pertaining to specific programs.
• Assist School Psychologist in creation and implementation of Positive Behavior Support plans as part of the Behavior Support initiative.
• Collaborate with departmental staff on a regular basis to assess progress of programs and initiatives through data analysis, participate in short and long-range planning, and address and resolve issues.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of SPED curriculum in conjunction with general education learning initiatives and modify as needed.
• Conduct formal and informal assessments to evaluate SPED staff performance and provide constructive feedback.
• Establishes procedures for evaluation, placement and reevaluation of students in need of special services.
• Work closely with teachers, parents, and other professionals to identify students with special needs and ensure they receive appropriate services.
• Review and interpret educational laws and regulations related to special education and provide necessary developments with Administration.
• Participate in the recruitment and selection process for the Special Education Department.
• Organize professional development programs for Special Education staff, general education teachers, and support staff.
• Oversee the Extended School Year Services Program for the summer camp at CCCS.
• Work together with the building principal to conduct formal and informal assessments for evaluation of SPED staff performance; provide constructive feedback.

Qualifications:

• Profound understanding of special education laws, regulations, and procedures to ensure compliance and advocate for students' rights.
• Exceptional leadership skills to lead and manage a diverse team of special education teachers, support staff, and related service providers.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with various stakeholders including students, parents, teachers, administrators, and community members. This also includes the ability to explain complex educational terms and processes in an understandable manner.
• Proficient in data analysis to assess the effectiveness of special education programs and make necessary improvements.
• Knowledge of State and Federal legislation as it relates to Special Education.

Education and Licenses:

• Valid PDE Supervisor - Special Education (9215) Certificate required.
• School Admin - Principal (1115) Certificate preferred.
• Valid PDE Special Education Teaching certificate required.
• Master's degree in Special Education or a related field required.
• Previous experience in a leadership role within special education required.

In order to qualify for this position, candidates must have current and acceptable completion of (or ability to obtain prior to employment):

• Arrest/Conviction Report and Certification (Act 24)
• PA State Police Criminal History Clearance (Act 34)
• FBI Criminal History Clearance (Act 114)
• Mandated Child Abuse Reporter Training (Act 126)
• Child Abuse Clearance (Act 151)
• Sexual Misconduct/Abuse Disclosure Release (Act 168)
• Recent Physical/Tuberculosis Test

Christopher Columbus Charter School is located in the heart of South Philadelphia's "Italian Market" area. At its inception in 1999, the school served students in grades K, 1, 2, and 3. Each year a grade was added, until it became a K-8 school. There are two facilities: the North Building, located at 916 Christian Street, houses students in grades K-4, and the South Building, located at 1242-46 South 13th Street, houses students in grades 5-8.

Please note that you will only be contacted in the event that we wish to schedule an interview.

Christopher Columbus Charter School is an AA/EOE committed to the development of an inclusive, multicultural community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, ancestry, national origin, age or sex.