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:
- Master’s Degree or higher in Special Education, Education Leadership or related field.
- Full state approval in at least one area of special education.
- Meet requirements for full approval as Director of Special Education.
- Administrator Certification required.
- Experience as a Special Education Director or leadership, preferred.
- Knowledge of IDEA, MARSE, ISD Plan and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (504) legislation and strong knowledge of IEP compliance.
- Excellent oral and written communication, presentation & leadership skills.
- Commitment to collaboration with diverse staff, students, and families.
- Experience in provision of professional development, mentoring, and coaching.
- Development and implementation of department policies and procedures.
- Ability to oversee department budget and finances.
- 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