Assistant Director of Special Education

Why Choose Peoria Unified: Since 1889, Peoria Unified School District has grown to serve over 36,000 students and nearly 4,000 employees as one of Arizona’s largest districts.  We cater to the unique learning style of every student, from preschool through high school.  Our District prides itself on excelling schools, award-winning teachers, high test scores, career and technical education programs, specialized Choice Programs, free all-day kindergarten, and championship athletic programs.  We have a 95% high school graduation rate and are proud to be the first district in the state to receive the prestigious AdvancED Accreditation.  We achieve such benchmarks by fostering a diverse workforce which values different ideas, is inclusive of all employees, and by maintaining that great family-feel we are known for. Sound like a team you want to join?  Then read on!
 
Position Title:  Assistant Director of Special Education                                                                 
Supervisor:  Director of Special Education      
Term of Employment:  12 Months        
Salary Classification:  Director I         
 
Job Summary:  Become a difference maker and bring your creativity and innovation to the District office!  Our Assistant Special Education Director is responsible in supporting the oversight of Special Education staffing and programming. The person is responsible for helping to coordinate activities and support the Director the Special Education Department  
 
Job Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
The following responsibilities tie into our strategic plan to include Student Success, Safety and Wellbeing, Stewardship of Community Resources, and Community Connection.  We believe these four areas help us remain focused on Peoria Unified’s vision: Every Student, Every Day, Prepared to Shape Tomorrow.
 
In collaboration with Director of Special Education:

• Ensures schools and the District follow all state and federal regulations relative to the identification, placement, and program development for special education students.
• Provides system-wide leadership for assuring the development of effective and appropriate special education programs.
• Provides leadership and system representation in matters relating to due process procedural safeguards and state complaints.
• Develops system procedures for identification, evaluation, and placement of students with special education needs.
• Represents the school system in dealing with outside agencies and organizations concerned with special education.
• Facilitates communication and mediation with parents and advocates regarding the delivery of special education services.
• Coordinates the development and maintenance of student special education files.
• Develops and coordinates development of various data reports requested by both State and Federal Agencies.
• Assists others in the preparation and review of reports generated for State funding of Special Education programs.
• Coordinates staff development sessions for general and special education personnel.
• Coordinates the development of information required by the transportation department in arranging specialized transportation.
• Approves special education requests for supplies, materials, and equipment.
• Coordinates instructional program for special education services.
• With principals, assume leadership for recruiting, hiring, and evaluating special education related service providers and contract staff.
• Develops and maintains IDEA Grant and department budgets.
• Coordinates services for special education Pre-K program in collaboration with the Director of Preschool.
• Supports policies and programs that best utilize the District’s human and financial resources.
• Develops and implements Board Policies relating to Special Education Students.
• Supervises itinerant staff, strategists, coordinators, office staff, and other districtwide special education personnel as assigned.
• Supervises and coordinate MSSA Alternative Assessments.
• Directs and evaluates special education services and programs.

 
Qualifications:  Possession of, or eligibility for Arizona supervisory certification.  Must possess or obtain an Arizona IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card. Minimum of a master’s degree in special education and/or administration. A minimum of three (3) years teaching special education, related service provider, or related experience – preferably in the field of special education.
 
Other Requirements:  

• A minimum of three (3) years public school administrative experience preferred.
• A thorough understanding of special education law.
• An understanding of educational research and statistics.
• The ability to assess, design and implement staff development activities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to apply planning strategies for all aspects of special education services.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Unquestionable personal integrity.
• Commitment to excellence in the advancement of learning.
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may find appropriate and acceptable.
• Must be able to pass background clearance check.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid government issued ID.
• May be required to work outside normal working hours.
• May be required to travel to perform work functions.

 
What We Offer:  Peoria Unified School District offers a robust benefits package that can help increase your financial security, advance professionally, and promote a healthy, fulfilling life. We also participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS).  Some of the benefits offered include: Medical, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts, Life Insurance, a Wellness Program, Paid Time Off, and discounts on many other services. 
Already Applied?  Once you have applied to one of our openings, your information is shared with the site administrator or supervisor.  Should they wish to discuss your qualifications further, they will contact you directly and schedule an interview.  All job postings remain posted until filled.