Executive Director

The New School of Montpelier is seeking a visionary and dynamic Executive Director to lead our therapeutic school into its next chapter of growth and impact. This is a unique opportunity for a strategic and passionate leader to drive our mission, strengthen partnerships, and oversee the school’s operations and programs. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership and a deep commitment to our mission, ensuring long-term sustainability and success. Effectively demonstrate educational expertise in curriculum, special education services, case management, student referrals and placements, clinical and behavioral intervention, and professional development for staff. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive learning environment that supports diverse student needs. NSM is approved as an independent school by the Vermont State Board of Education to provide general and special education services to students, ages 5-22 in grades K-12 in the disability categories of Intellectual Disability, Specific Learning Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Other Health Impairment, Emotional Disturbance, Speech or Language Impairment, Developmental Delay, Multiple Disabilities, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Additionally, NSM operates a program for adult alumni with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Mission: NSM is a learning community committed to preparing individuals with unique and complex challenges for successful lives. We use evidence based practices to promote independence, communication, social/emotional skills and academic growth, within a culture of safety and belonging. Position: NSM is currently seeking an Executive Director who has responsibility for leading the school in an informed and inspirational manner, working with the Board of Directors in policy development, interpreting policies and developing procedures to carry them out, and promoting effective programs that meet the needs of the greater community. The Executive Director is hired and supervised by the Board of Directors and works with the Board and Executive Leadership Team to develop and implement strategies that carry out the strategic plan. These relationships are vital to the effectiveness of the school and its affiliated programs. Qualifications: Master’s Degree and licensed in the practiced discipline. With five years or more as a successful leader in an educational, academic, or human services organization; preferably, in special education, complex disabilities, children’s services, and/ or supported employment. An understanding of the IDEA, Vermont’s Agency of Education, mental health and developmental service agencies, and independent school approval requirements. Successful experience with collaborative decision-making models and effective planning, organizational skills and experience. Well developed written communication, presentation skills, and sophisticated interpersonal skills. Requirements for this position include: Governance Complies with governance structure identified in the GLASS Model. Collaborates with the Board of Directors in policy development. Leadership Maintains independent school approval and other AOE compliance requirements. Oversee the development and implementation of the school’s mission, vision, and strategic plan. Collaborates with the Board of Directors, Admin, and Program Directors on a regular basis to maintain communication, decision making, staffing, school initiatives, and culture and climate. Business Development of annual budget, revenues, expenditures, and cash flow projections. Authorization of contracts with sending districts, offers of employment, and contracted service personnel. Works collaboratively with the Human Resources Director and Operations Director around recruitment, facilities, and operations. Communication Actively participate in external groups and committees. Assure positive public relations with parents, guardians, and home care providers as well as sending school districts, human service agencies, Agency of Education, and designated agencies. Oversee the school communication system. Programs General education curriculum. Special education and case management. Clinical and Behavioral Intervention. Training and professional development of staff. Student referral and placement process. Infrastructure Maintain personnel,recruitment and retention. Program evaluation and expansion. Additionally Comply with all policies and procedures with the NSM handbook and the Student and Family handbook. Must have excellent written, verbal, and time management skills. Strong interpersonal skills are required. Must have the ability to develop, maintain, collaborate positive relationships with all team members. Compensation & Benefits: This is a full-time position, with an annual salary commensurate with experience. NSM offers health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, paid time off, and 401k retirement plan with employer match. NSM also encourages and supports exceptional opportunities for training and professional development. Apply: Please send your cover letter and resume to The New School of Montpelier, Attn: Human Resources, 9 West Street, Montpelier, VT 05602 or you may apply via email at jobs@nsmvt.org. Please note that only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. If you need assistance or an accommodation in the application process, please contact the Human Resources Director at 802-223-0647 ext. 133. The New School of Montpelier is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.