What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Pupil Services position at Portsmouth School District?
Director of Pupil Services
Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the Superintendent of Schools, to implement, administer and maintain the school district's pupil service programs and services in the areas of special education, psychology, guidance, and social work in conformance with district policies and state objectives; as well as applicable law to promote a school environment conducive to individualized instruction, cooperative curriculum development, and student learning.
To provide leadership in program development and improvement, as well as in professional staff development in all pupil services areas.
Essential Functions
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
Equipment
Use standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copier and fax machines, and telephone.
Travel Requirements
Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.
Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
Work in standard office and school building environments.
Note: Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Job Duties for this position.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Certification/License:
Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the Superintendent of Schools, to implement, administer and maintain the school district's pupil service programs and services in the areas of special education, psychology, guidance, and social work in conformance with district policies and state objectives; as well as applicable law to promote a school environment conducive to individualized instruction, cooperative curriculum development, and student learning.
To provide leadership in program development and improvement, as well as in professional staff development in all pupil services areas.
Essential Functions
- Develops and administers school district's special services programs consistent with school district goals and objectives, as well as applicable law.
- Provides leadership and direction to staff with regard to the ongoing evaluation and improvement of special education, guidance, psychology and social work programs, and ESL, including curricular and extra-curricular activities.
- Assigns all special education, guidance, social work and school psychologist to ensure the most effective utilization and provision of special services and programs.
- Supervises the PPT process, chairing PPT meetings or collaborating with administrators and teaching staff as needed; ensures IEP's are implemented.
- Serves as the school's liaison for student education students entering or exiting high school to outside district day or residential programs.
- Reviews, approves and coordinates all outside placements for the school district.
- Ensure that student records are maintained and secured to ensure accurate information, reporting capabilities, and confidentiality in accordance with applicable laws.
- Approves and maintains records on all students engaged in home instruction programs.
- Oversees the assignment of students into special education sections.
- Recommends components of behavioral management plans to administrative and teaching staff consistent with the needs of special needs students.
- Coordinates crisis intervention team and participates as a member, as needed.
- Coordinates special education services with other pupil services.
- Promotes a school environment conducive to individualized instruction, cooperative curriculum development, and student learning.
- Meets with students, parents, and related school personnel regarding student needs.
- Oversees special education and other pupil services budget requests and administration; apply for grants to assist the school district in obtaining funds for special services needs.
- Serves as the Coordinator for "Child Find".
- Oversee and coordinate all school district gifted and talents programs.
- Assists in school and system-wide curriculum development and staff development in areas of responsibility.
- Serves as liaison with state officials and agencies regarding legislation, programming and other matters covering areas of responsibility.
- Supervises and monitors the school district health services programs.
- Assist with special service transportation issues.
- Prepares and oversees budget related to pupil services programs.
- Reviews and approves requisitions for special education curriculum materials, supplies and equipment.
- Keeps abreast of developments in the fields of special education, student assessment and school health programs.
- Keeps other school district staff informed of changes in laws or regulations in areas of responsibility.
- Manages and supervises all employees in responsibility areas, including the recruitment, selection, training, professional development and evaluation of staff under areas of responsibility; makes recommendations regarding goals, provides constructive feedback and takes corrective action if necessary.
- Coordinates and attends meetings with district staff and parents, serves on committees, and conducts professional development as needed to fulfill responsibilities.
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
Equipment
Use standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copier and fax machines, and telephone.
Travel Requirements
Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.
Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
Work in standard office and school building environments.
Note: Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Job Duties for this position.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiates instruction based upon student learning styles and behavioral management methods.
- Knowledge of best practices in administration, program evaluation and staff supervision.
- Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
- Knowledge of principles in psychology, social work and guidance.
- Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding special education, students, and staff, including Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, IDEA, and FERPA.
- Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
- Ability to organize and coordinate work.
- Ability to develop and implement projects.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
- Ability to organize multiple tasks and conflicting time constraints.
- Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to leadership, performance and professional growth.
- Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
Certification/License:
- State Certification as required for position.
- Teaching Certification in special education.
- Teaching Certification or license in psychology, social work or guidance preferred.
- Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.
- Bachelor's and Masters Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in School Administration.
- Sixth year, doctorate, or other planned program in related field preferred.
- Extensive successful special education teaching experience, preferably in more than one grade level.
- Experience in guidance, psychology, health, and/or social work preferred.
- Successful administrative experience in special education preferred.
