April 18, 2024

We announce the following vacancy in the Rochester Community Schools. Applications will be accepted until filled.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EDUCATION

QUALIFICATIONS:          

1. Master’s Degree or higher in Special Education, Education Leadership or related field.
2. Full state approval in at least one area of special education.
3. Meet requirements for full approval as Director of Special Education.
4. Administrator Certification required.
5. Experience as a Special Education Director or leadership, preferred.
6. Knowledge of IDEA, MARSE, ISD Plan and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (504) legislation and strong knowledge of IEP compliance.
7. Excellent oral and written communication, presentation & leadership skills.
8. Commitment to collaboration with diverse staff, students, and families.
9. Experience in provision of professional development, mentoring, and coaching.
10. Development and implementation of department policies and procedures.
11. Ability to oversee department budget and finances.
12. Commitment to working in partnership with families and provide ongoing support, including Child Find and Early Intervention.

REPORTS TO:  Deputy Superintendent for Teaching and Learning

SUPERVISES:  Special Education Supervisors and Instructional Staff

JOB GOAL:  To oversee and provide an administrative service delivery model which is driven by: a focus on maximizing student outcomes, creating ongoing opportunities in a least restrictive environment, providing for a continuum of support, as well as aligning with federal and state rules and regulations.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

•  Ensures that a continuum of special education programs and services are available which:
• will provide an opportunity for all students to be educated in the appropriate, least restrictive environment; 
• provide for the individualization of instruction which results in growth and achievement consistent with each student's abilities and interests; 
• are aligned with the district’s vision and mission; 
• are in compliance with federal and state rules and regulations.  
• Works in conjunction with the assistant superintendent for early childhood and elementary education and the executive director of secondary education to coordinate continuum of services.
• Evaluates and coordinates a continuum of special education programs and services and implements changes as needed to improve academic and functional outcomes for students. 
• Oversees and evaluates on an ongoing basis all special education curriculum policies and procedures to ensure they align with compliance standards. 
• Provides leadership and support to the special education department and carries out the district’s vision and strategic plan initiatives. 
• Develops and maintains strong professional relationships with students, parents, teacher and support staff, administration and the community. 
• Coordinates and monitors evaluation of students for special education services. 
• Collaborates with district and building administration in the areas of school improvement and staff development. 
• Ensures that confidential files are developed and maintained for students participating in programs in compliance with state and federal law. 
• Establishes procedures for identifying, serving, and reevaluating special education students in accordance with state and federal laws. 
• Facilitates transportation of special education students by ensuring necessary information is communicated to the transportation department in a timely manner. 
• Ensures that appropriate facilities are available for all classes and supplementary program functions, and that they are maintained at an appropriate level on a continuing basis. 
• In cooperation with the business operations shares the responsibility for the development and amendment of the I.D.E.A, Preschool and Capacity-Building grants.
• Facilitates recruitment, selection, hiring, and assignment of special education personnel. 
• Evaluates and/or facilitates evaluation of ancillary staff and building-based Special Education instructional personnel. 
• Develops budget recommendations and provides expenditure control on established budgets for special education programs. 
• Works with business operations staff to compile, maintain, and file state and federal financial reports required by the Intermediate School District within specified timelines. 
• Attends county special education council meetings. 
• Attends school board meetings. 
• Assumes responsibility for entry of central registry data and reporting requirements in accordance with membership and child accounting requirements within prescribed timelines. 
• Maintains liaison and active participation with educational leaders in areas of special education at ISD, state, regional, and national levels. 
• Coordinates with appropriate community agencies to provide services to students with differing abilities. 
• Authorizes participation in staff development activities for special education staff. 
• Develops and recommends adoption and implementation of district policies with attention to differing abilities of students. 
• Supports the Deputy Superintendent for Teaching and Learning in his/her overall administrative efforts; interprets his/her ideas and decisions to staff and public; keeps him/her informed of pertinent department development and events; and  seeks his/her counsel on decisions as necessary.  
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Deputy Superintendent for Teaching and Learning. 
• Maintains positive relationships with the Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) and attend their meetings.

Revised 2/92; 6/94; 7/96; 3/99; 5/02; 8/03, 5/07, 4/19, 4/24