Director of Special Population

General Description:

The Director of Special Populations is responsible for overseeing and managing programs and services for students with diverse needs, including students with disabilities, English language learners, and those from various cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. This leadership position ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and promotes an inclusive educational environment that supports the academic and social-emotional development of all students.

Duties and Responsibilities:

· Develop, implement, and oversee programs and services for special populations to meet students’ academic and developmental needs.

· Evaluate and enhance existing programs to ensure effectiveness and alignment with best practices.

· Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations related to special populations, including IDEA, 504, and ESL requirements.

· Stay current on policies, regulations, and advocacy efforts related to special populations; provide guidance to school administrators and staff.

· Collaborate with teachers, administrators, counselors, and other stakeholders to promote inclusive practices and equitable access to education.

· Serve as a liaison between the school district, families, and community organizations to facilitate support services and resources.

· Design and facilitate professional development opportunities and training sessions for educators on best practices for teaching and supporting special populations.

· Mentor and support staff in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and other support strategies.

· Advocate for the needs and rights of students with diverse needs within the school community and in broader educational settings.

· Engage with families and community members to promote understanding, acceptance, and support for special populations.

· Manage the budget for special populations programs, ensuring efficient use of resources to maximize support for students.

· Seek and apply for grants and funding opportunities to enhance resources and services for special populations.

Other Functions

· Attend community and school events.

· Perform staff performance evaluations as assigned.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements: Minimum Qualification

· Valid Tennessee teacher license.

· Master’s degree and current valid Tennessee administrative license are required.

· Successful classroom teaching experience is required.

· A minimum of 5 years of successful classroom experience, in a special education or inclusive setting is required.

· Experience in facilitating professional learning is required.

· Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Special Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

SKILLS to inspire and lead teams, set strategic goals, and foster a collaborative environment. Strong verbal and written communication skills to interact with staff, parents, and the community effectively. Proficient in mediation and conflict resolution to address challenges among stakeholders. Ability to manage multiple projects, budgets, and resources efficiently. Proficient in data analysis to assess program effectiveness and make informed decisions. Ability to advocate for special populations within educational settings and the broader community.

KNOWLEDGE of federal and state laws governing special education, including IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Knowledge of best practices to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within educational settings. Understanding of instructional strategies and curriculum adaptations that meet the needs of various special populations. Knowledge of assessment tools and methods used to evaluate the progress and needs of special populations. Awareness of community programs and resources available to support individuals with special needs and their families. Understanding techniques and strategies for training educators and staff working with special populations.

ABILITY to connect with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds and understand their unique challenges. Capable of making informed and timely decisions that impact programs and services for special populations. Ability to foster partnerships with educational institutions, community organizations, and governmental agencies. Ability to adjust strategies and approaches based on changing needs and circumstances. Ability to develop and implement innovative solutions to improve services for special populations. Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Additional Information:

• Selected applicants must verify experience/highest degree held.

• Direct deposit of paycheck on a 12-month schedule is required.

• TSB is a non-smoking facility in its entirety.

• The selected applicant must comply with the State of Tennessee Employee Drug-Free Workplace Policy, and other policies.

• As required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA), selected applicant must verify, within 72 hours of employment, his/her legal right to be employed in the United States.

• Selected applicants will be required to submit to and pass a TBI/FBI background check, to include Tennessee and Federal criminal history checks, child abuse records, employment verification, and professional/personal reference checks.

Benefits:

Benefits include medical, dental, vision and life insurance, retirement pension, 401(k) match, employee assistance program, personal and sick leave (PTO) and more. A full listing of employee benefits can be found here Benefits & State Employee Discounts (tn.gov)

How To Apply:

State of Tennessee Employment Application (see TSB Career Opportunities webpage)

The following documents may be brought or mailed to TSB, as well as submitted via email to:

Mr. Richard Ray, Superintendent

Tennessee School for the Blind

115 Stewarts Ferry Pike Nashville, TN 37214

E-mail: richard.ray@tsbtigers.org

· Letter of Interest

· Current Resume

· 3 Professional References (Minimum 1 from a direct supervisor)

· Copy of Educator License

· Unofficial Copies of All Transcripts*

*An unofficial copy of transcripts must be submitted at the time of application. Failure to provide a transcript or credential evaluation report may result in your application being rejected and you will not be able to continue in the selection process for this announcement.

Candidates with disabilities who require special accommodation or alternative communication formats should contact the Superintendent’s Office at (615) 231-7316 no later than five days prior to their scheduled interview to facilitate reasonable accommodation. The State of Tennessee is an Equal Opportunity Employer; Discrimination on the Basis of Age (Over 40), Race, Sex, Color, Religion, National Origin, Disabling Condition or any other Non-Merit Factor is Prohibited.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift

Work Location: In person