What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Special Education position at St. Paul City School?
The Director of Special Education at St. Paul City School is responsible for ensuring that all students with disabilities receive high-quality, legally compliant, and effective special education services. This leader oversees the development and implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborates with families, and supports staff in delivering trauma-informed and equitable special education services. The Director of Special Education plays a key role in maintaining SPCS’s commitment to inclusion, student-centered learning, and community support.
This is a 12-month position reporting to the Executive Director.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead all aspects of special education programming to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Lead, supervise, and support special education teachers and paraprofessionals in delivering high-quality, inclusive instruction.
- Develop and implement professional development focused on trauma-informed special education practices.
- Develop and implement our Total Special Education System (TSES).
- Ensure the implementation of IEPs and with fidelity, collaborating with general education teachers to support student needs.
- Serve as the primary liaison between SPCS, families, and external agencies to support students receiving special education services.
- Manage and oversee the due process system, ensuring accurate documentation, timelines, and reporting.
- Advocate for equitable funding and resources to meet the needs of students with disabilities.
- Manage department budget and resources including oversight of service and purchase expenses.
- Oversee contracting process and service providers for related service providers.
- Partner with the Director of Teaching and Learning to align special education services with academic programming.
- Engage in the Child Find process & team for consultation on appropriateness of interventions, data collection, and referrals to special education evaluation.
- Ensure timely data collection, sharing & reviews with other departments to support district reporting including MARSS, student acknowledgements, testing accommodations, time & effort.
- Leading dispute resolution related to special education services, including managing complaints, mediation, and due process hearing requests and collaborating with legal counsel when necessary.
Professional Development & Teacher Growth
- Design, implement, and assess professional development programs for teachers, paraprofessionals, and other staff.
- Conduct classroom observations and learning walks, providing instructional coaching and modeling best practices.
- Coordinate new teacher onboarding including training on due process and instructional practices.
- Conduct evaluations for special education teachers and paraprofessionals (as needed)
Qualifications:
- Deep understanding of trauma-informed practices, restorative justice, and inclusive education.
- Strong knowledge of special education law, due process, and compliance requirements.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with educators, families, and community partners.
License and Experience
- Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field preferred
- Minnesota license in Special Education, Social Work, Psychologist, or related field required.
- Minnesota Director of Special Education license preferred
- Minimum of five years of experience in special education required.
- Experience in leadership roles preferred.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $90,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Ability to Commute:
- Saint Paul, MN 55103 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $90,000 - $120,000
