Associate Superintendent of Special Education

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION: Under the direction of the chief student support officer, the associate superintendent of special education leads the Division of Special Education and oversees the work of the departments of Special Education Services; Special Education Compliance; Special Education Pre-Kindergarten and Related Services; and Special Education Systems and Management and ensures the proper implementation of the school system's strategic priorities, initiatives, policies, and programs. The associate superintendent of special education leads the work that ensures the district's compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR); ensures the provision of services for students with disabilities ages birth to 21, both certificate- and diploma-bound. Major duties include managing and supervising the directors associated with each respective department, division, and unit within the Division of Special Education (DSE). Provides oversight and direction with the development and implementation of the DSE budget. The associate superintendent oversees all special education functions and ensures the district's compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) for the school system.

CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: Meets Maryland state certification requirements for Administrator II and superintendent I certification.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Thorough knowledge of teaching and learning and evidenced-based interventions and practices in the field of special education. Extensive knowledge of IDEA and the principles, practices, methods, and current trends of school administration as applied to special education programs. Knowledge of the Section 504 to ensure services for students with 504 plans. Thorough knowledge of federal laws pertaining to students with disabilities, school law in Maryland, bylaws of the Maryland State Board of Education, and the policies of the Montgomery County Board of Education (Board). Excellent organizational, supervisory, written and oral communication, and interpersonal skills required. Skilled at re-envisioning, building, inspiring and managing a team, especially in a time of growth and change. Ability to use multiple sources of data and educational technologies to diagnose strengths and needs of schools and students to provide differentiated support. Exceptional conceptual, analytical, organizational, and management skills. Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to build coalitions among diverse stakeholders and work with other offices to support student learning.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE: Doctorate degree preferred. Required: Master's degree in one of the following areas: special education, educational administration, or related field. Administrator II or Superintendent I certification in Maryland (or eligible). Demonstrated successful administrative leadership experience (seven years minimum) in the planning, development, and implementation of programs and services in special education: experience working with parents/caregivers and community groups; knowledge of legal issues related to special education and Section 504. Demonstrates ability to develop and deliver instructional resources that support the curriculum and improve academic performance for ALL student populations. Demonstrates cultural competency and a deep understanding of complex issues facing a large, diverse school district. Experience as a school-based administrator strongly preferred and/or prior experience as a director of special education. Experience as a Special Education teacher required. Practical knowledge of planning and implementing specially-designed instruction preferred.