Director of Special Education

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF POSITION:

Under the supervision of the Assistant Superintendent/Director of Student Sercices, and building Principal, the Director will:
1. Coordinate and supervise the implementation of effective instructional programs for students with disabilities at Stratham Memorial School;
2. Supervise the operation of the District’s Special Education programs and services;
3. Be responsible for supervising the students’ educational programs in the planning, development, implementation, maintenance and evaluation of programs for individuals who qualify for special education services;
4. Provide training to special education staff, general education staff and paraprofessionals;
5. Monitor program compliance and serve as a resource in the assessment and instructional planning of individuals who qualify for special education services;
6. Supervises and evaluates paraprofessional staff; and
7. Serve as a collaborative leader within the administrative team, contributing expertise to ensure inclusive and equitable educational practices for all students.

• MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Coordinates school staff and other District staff to research and implement effective programs for students with disabilities at District schools.
• Coordinate and plan with the Principal and Assistant Principal for fiscal school years.
• Identifies instructional techniques and strategies that improve the achievement of special education students in both special education and general education classes
• Assists with special education curriculum revision and development.
• Collaborates with other District offices in the development and implementation of materials, programs, and training to enhance access to the core curriculum for students with disabilities.
• Supervise and provide feedback to instructional staff
• Analyze data and apply the analysis in assisting Educational Services, Special Education and staff in implementing age/grade appropriate programs and services for students with disabilities.
• Assists with training for all district staff on special education laws, regulations and district procedures.
• Manage special education staffing including, instructional aides, and other support staff.
• Maintain accurate special education records and monitors the documentation of special education services provided
• Serves on district, local, county and state committees as assigned.
• Directs and evaluates the performance of special education personnel
• Performs other tasks and assumes responsibilities as may be assigned by proper authority.

Additional Duties

Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and 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.

Qualifications Profile
Certification/License:

• NH 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.

Education

• 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.

Experience

• 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.

FLSA Status: Exempt