Education Director

Job Title: Education Director at River Rock Academy IDS 

Location: Harrisburg, PA, 17104

Join River Rock Academy, a Pennsylvania Department of Education Approved Licensed Academic School and Private Provider, dedicated to empowering students in Grades 1-12 through transformative educational services. Our programs for Elementary, Secondary Special Education, and Alternative Education offer specialized instruction, test preparation, counseling, and social skills development. With individualized transition plans and a focus on stability and personal growth, we celebrate student success and foster an environment of trust and support, helping each student reach their full potential.

Why Join Us?

• Weekday Schedule – Work Monday through Friday with a consistent school-based schedule, no nights or weekends required. 
• Paid School Breaks & Time Off – Enjoy paid school breaks, holidays, and personal time off, ensuring time to recharge and reset. 
• Comprehensive Benefits– Access health, dental, and vision insurance, plus employer-paid short-term disability, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts (FSA/HSA). 
• Financial Perks– Benefit from a 401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% company match, plus employer-paid HSA contributions and life & disability insurance. 
• Professional Development– Advance your career with tuition reimbursement, mentorship programs, leadership training, and pathways to grow into teaching or behavioral health roles. 
• Supportive Team– Collaborate with educators, specialists, and therapists in a positive, inclusive environment with annual awards, Teammate Appreciation Week, and team-building events. 
• Make an Impact– Help students with special needs build life skills, confidence, and independence in a supportive school environment. 

Your Role as a Education Director

IEP Oversight and Compliance:

• Provide specialized IEP training, support, and oversight to River Rock Academy educational staff.
• Develop and implement systems to ensure IEPs and related documentation are completed at intake and remain compliant with all regulations.
• Track and monitor IEP caseloads and required documentation, including FBAs, PBSPs, Reevaluations (RR), NOREPs, Manifestation Determinations, and KTEAs.
• Conduct regular student file audits in partnership with the Campus Director and the Program Director.

Teacher Training and Instructional Support:

• Train both Special and General Education teachers on IEP processes in accordance with PDE requirements.
• Support teachers in aligning instruction to Common Core standards and assist in curriculum development.
• Ensure timely submission of lesson plans; conduct formal teacher observations and routine classroom walkthroughs, reviewing and discussing feedback with staff and the Campus Director.

Assessment and Student Progress Monitoring:

• Oversee administration of KTEA testing upon student entry and discharge.
• Ensure each student has at least two completed career strands and assist in sending documentation to district representatives.

Program and Licensing Compliance:

• Help ensure compliance with PDE licensing requirements.
• Collaborate with Campus and Regional Directors to implement and monitor Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).

Mission Alignment and Ethical Standards:

• Support and align with the organization’s mission, values, and educational goals.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and all organizational privacy policies.
• Understand and follow mandated reporting laws related to suspected child abuse or neglect.

Professional Conduct and Collaboration:

• Maintain professional boundaries and respectful communication with students, families, colleagues, and guests.
• Use the organization’s facilities, equipment, and supplies responsibly and respectfully.
• Promote a cooperative, positive work environment through effective, solution-oriented communication.
• Identify and communicate issues promptly while engaging in constructive problem-solving.
• Remain open to supervision, feedback, and alternative perspectives to support ongoing professional development.
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures related to both staff conduct and youth care.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, educational leadership, human resources or related field with extensive experience.
• PA Special Education Teaching Certification or Supervisor of Special Education Certificate OR minimum of five years in a leadership role working with children with learning and behavioral challenges, including at least three years of teaching and/or supervisory experience.
• Prior leadership, supervisory or administrative experience in an educational environment
• Strong understanding with various curricula, Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and Behavior Plans.
• In-depth knowledge of special education laws, regulations, and best practices.
• Experience with MTSS, Common Core standards, and curriculum development.
• Familiarity with PA Department of Education regulations.
• Understanding of HIPAA, FERPA, and mandated reporting responsibilities.

Preferred (Nice to Have) Qualifications: 

• Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field.
• Administrative certification (e.g., Principal or Supervisor of Special Education).
• Understanding of mental health services and support systems.
• Experience in curriculum development for children with special education needs.
• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of common behavioral disorders in children and adolescents.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.

Ready to Make an Impact? Apply Today! 

At River Rock Academy, we are committed to diversity, inclusion, and creating a supportive, drug-free workplace. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Join our team and help shape a brighter future for students with special needs!