Department Chair of Special Education

Special Education Department Chair

Reports To: Assistant Principal, Director of Special Education

Supervises: Special Education Teachers, Paraprofessionals (as assigned)

Position Description

The Special Education Department Chair is responsible for providing leadership and support for the special education department, ensuring high-quality instruction, compliance with IEPs, and a positive learning environment for students with disabilities. This role involves curriculum development, staff support, data analysis, and collaboration with administrators, teachers, and parents.

Essential Functions

Instructional Leadership

• Develop and implement curricular and instructional interventions and initiatives to improve student outcomes.
• Research subject area trends and innovative programs in special education, evaluate curriculum, and make recommendations to the Director of Special Education.
• Review teacher lesson plans and assist in writing and implementation, ensuring alignment with IEP goals and accommodations.
• Assist with the development and implementation of assessments for the department, ensuring accessibility and appropriate modifications.
• Ensure the written curriculum is the taught curriculum as well as the assessed curriculum, with fidelity to student IEPs.
  
  

Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)

• Participate in the analysis of relevant academic data and support teacher/department use of data through PLCs.
• Coordinate and monitor PLC process and work with teachers to develop leadership within PLCs, focusing on effective strategies for students with disabilities.
  
  

Staff Support and Supervision

• Assist with supervision and evaluation of special education teachers.
• Provide collegial coaching (i.e., non-evaluative observations, feedback, lesson planning, modeling, co-teaching, etc.).
• Assist with new teacher induction and mentoring, providing guidance on special education policies, procedures, and best practices.
  
  

Program Management and Compliance

• Assist with the assignment of caseloads and responsibilities for special education staff.
• Assist with planning and implementing professional development activities, including Institute Days, School Improvement Plan Days, Remote Hybrid Days, Professional Learning Plan PD, and Lunch Bunches.
• Conduct walkthroughs to monitor the implementation of IEPs and instructional practices.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local special education regulations and guidelines.
  
  

Communication and Collaboration

• Assist in resolving any departmental issues that arise, consulting with the Assistant Principal or Director of Special Education as needed.
• Attend monthly Special Education meetings with the Director of Special Education and Assistant Principal.
• Collaborate with general education teachers to promote inclusive practices and co-teaching opportunities.
• Facilitate communication between special education staff, parents, and other stakeholders
• Plan and facilitate department meetings and professional development activities
  
  

Additional Responsibilities

• Participate in summer curriculum writing work and strategic planning (not to exceed 5 days)
• Know the written curriculum and assist in implementation and revision.
• Assist with the development and implementation of the department plan as it relates to Strategic Plan and district initiatives.
  
  

Leadership and Collaboration

• Assist in the recruitment, screening, and hiring of special education personnel.
• Collaborate with the principal and other administrators to create a positive school climate conducive to learning for students with disabilities.
  
  

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of teaching experience in special education.
• Prior experience in leadership roles within special education (e.g., team leader, mentor teacher).
• Demonstrated success in implementing effective instructional strategies and interventions for students with disabilities.
  
  

Required Education & Certification

• General administrative certification (or currently taking courses)
• Valid state-issued special education teaching license or certification.
  
  

Required Knowledge And Skills

• Thorough knowledge of special education laws, regulations, and best practices.
• Strong understanding of IEP development and implementation.
• Proficiency in data analysis and using data to drive instructional decisions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusive practices.
• Ability to lead and motivate diverse teams of educators.
  
  

Work Environment

Department Chairs teach a number of classes during the school day. Please refer to the collective bargaining agreement regarding the number of classes taught.

Terms Of Employment

This is a stipend position that is renewed yearly. Please refer to the collective bargaining agreement for more information.

Evaluation

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual assigned to this position. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. This job description may be amended at any time.

Application Method: Complete district online application at www.chsd218.org