Assistant Principal of Special Education Elementary School - Georgia Connections Academy

School Summary 

Georgia Connections Academy is a tuition-free, full-time virtual school for students in grades K-12 throughout Georgia. The school is authorized by the Georgia Charter Schools Commission and governed by an independent Board of Directors, with a mission to maximize academic achievement for students who are seeking other academic options. The school is operated by Georgia Connections Academy, a nonprofit corporation, through a contract with Connections Academy of Georgia, LLC, to provide its educational program and other services. Connections Academy, a division of Connections Education, is accredited by AdvancED, and GACA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement. 

Position Summary and Responsibilities 

Working from our office in Duluth, Georgia, the Assistant Principal of Special Education provides leadership and oversight for developing, implementing, and managing special education programs and services. This role ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, fosters an inclusive learning environment, and supports the academic, social, and emotional growth of students with disabilities. The Assistant Principal of Special Education collaborates with educators, families, and the community to ensure equitable access to quality education for all students. 

All GACA staff must be able to participate in monthly in-person activities, including but not limited to: 

• School and department meetings, 
• Student engagement opportunities,
• Required training/development,
• School-level events, such as state testing and graduation.

This is a 12-month, full-time position. 

The Assistant Principal of Special Education will be responsible for the successful completion of the following tasks: 

• Provide leadership in the planning, development, and implementation of special education programs and services. 
• Oversee the development and implementation of specially designed instruction (SDI) to ensure students with disabilities receive individualized support per their IEP 
• Support the development of interventions and strategies to address academic and behavioral challenges 
• Monitor lesson planning to ensure they include evidence-based strategies for SDI 
• Conduct classroom observations to ensure that teachers are delivering SDI with fidelity
• Provide professional development and training for staff to build capacity in special education practices 
• Manage and supervise special education teachers to ensure the delivery of high-quality instruction and services 
• Monitor and manage data related to student progress on IEP goals and service delivery
• Work collaboratively and participate in weekly meetings with the Special Education Director to address the needs of students with disabilities 
• Understand the requirements for and assist the state testing team to facilitate the administration of all district testing 
• Collaborate with district staff to prepare for audits and state reporting 
• Foster a culture of inclusion and support for students with disabilities within the school community 
• Attend and participate in leadership meetings with the Principal, contributing to decision-making and strategic planning 
• Assist the Principal in developing budgets and allocating resources for special education programs 
• Oversee instructional aspect of enrollment to ensure accurate placements and that teachers receive guidance on special education supports and services 
• Manage the hiring and onboarding process of special education teachers 
• Address concerns related to special education services, acting as an advocate for students and families 
• Provides solution-focused approach when collaborating with parents and GACA staff to ensure positive student outcomes 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications: 

• Georgia Special Education teacher certification 
• Must have no ethics violations 
• Must have received a rating of Effective or Highly Effective in the most recent performance review. 
• Must have a clearance certificate as defined by the GaPSC. 
• GaPSC Education Leadership Certificate or currently enrolled in a leadership program. 
• Strong technology skills (especially with Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets products) 
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written 
• Customer focused approach 
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills 
• Experience in writing policies and procedures 
• Expert knowledge of IDEA and Georgia Rules and Regulations regarding Special Education 
• Expert knowledge in FTE funding rules and reporting 
• Flexible and willing to provide and receive constructive feedback 
• Team player with demonstrated leadership skills 
• Demonstrated ability to work well in a fast-paced environment 
• Skilled in the use of spreadsheets 
• Experience in training and/or coaching adult learners 
• Experience in analyzing data to make informed decisions 
• Strong desire to continue career improvement and advancement through professional development 
• Willingness to travel on occasion for marketing, school and state testing events (may require occasional overnight travel)