Assistant Director of Special Education

Upper St. Clair School District; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established educational institution is seeking an Assistant Director of Special Education to lead and enhance special education programs. This pivotal role involves ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations while collaborating with educators to support students with disabilities. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in special education administration and effective interpersonal skills to foster collaborative relationships. Join a dedicated team committed to providing exceptional educational services and making a meaningful impact on students' lives. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of special education within the district.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Education/Special Education preferred.
• PA Certification as Supervisor of Special Education or Principal PK-12.

Responsibilities

• Oversee special education programs ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Collaborate with special education teachers and administrators.
• Assist in the development of procedures for special education.

Skills

Knowledge of state and federal regulations

Interpersonal skills

Administrative experience

Special education teaching experience

Education

Master’s Degree in Education/Special Education

PA Certification as Supervisor of Special Education

Instructional Certificate in Special Education K-12

Job description

Position: Assistant Director of Special Education

Anticipated Dates of Assignment: 2025-2026 School Year

Summary:

The Assistant Director of Special Education will oversee the implementation and enhancement of special education programs and services within the District, ensuring the provision of appropriate educational services for students receiving and/or being evaluated for special education services. The Assistant Director of Special Education will also ensure compliance with all relevant and applicable state and federal special education regulations. The employee will be required to perform any other position-related duties requested by the Director of Special Education and/or Superintendent’s Office.

Responsibilities :

The list is intended to provide an overview of the roles and responsibilities of the Assistant Director of Special Education rather than a complete description of the position. To successfully perform this position, a person must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

• Work collaboratively with the Director of Special Education.
• Assists with the direction and resources for the implementation of state, federal, and local mandates, regulations, policies, procedures, and laws for special education and ensure procedural safeguard rights.
• Assist in the preparation and implementation of required special education. submissions to include, but not limited to: District Special Education Plan, State and Federal Reports, Cyclical Monitoring.
• Ensure that IEPs are reasonably calculated for meaningful progress. Monitor progress and maintain high expectations for students in special education. Oversee program/placement changes as needed, consistent with federal law and state regulations.
• Assist in the development of procedures and guidelines as they relate to special education.
• Serve as a LEA. Collaborate with special education teachers and building administrators to provide feedback and support through the IEP process.
• Monitors and coordinates staff activities. Provides technical assistance in areas such as assessment, curriculum development, use of materials/equipment, and management of student behavior.
• Conduct staff meetings for the Special Education Department, as needed.
• Work with related service providers and agencies (OT, PT, speech, contracted nursing, etc.).
• Maintain effective, collaborative relationships with external agencies, Approved Private Schools, etc., and attend meetings with those agencies when alternate placements are being considered.
• Oversee the process for extended school year programming.
• Assist with preparation and monitoring of the special education budget for cost effective programs. Project future program needs and develop budget proposals accordingly. Ensure that School-Based ACCESS procedures and reporting are completed effectively.
• Serve as a member of the district crisis and threat assessment teams.
• Assists in the Supervision of: Special Education teachers and related service providers.
• Supervises, coordinates, and/or administers the implementation of in-district and out-of-district programming and placements. Continuously evaluates programming of all district students in Special Education to ensure appropriate placement and progress.
• Serve as an IEP case manager for students who are instructed in the home, AEDY programs, and/or community instruction.
• Coordinates the administration of PASA.
• Other responsibilities as identified by the Director of Special Education/designee.

Requirements:

• PA Certification as Supervisor of Special Education preferred, or at minimum, Principal PK-12 with a Master’s Degree in Education/Special Education with special education teaching experience.
• Instructional Certificate in Special Education K-12
• Successful experience supporting programs educating students with disabilities and a minimum of 3 years administrative experience.
• Must possess knowledge of state and federal regulations governing assigned special education assigned special education functional areas.
• Possess effective interpersonal skills with the ability to interface diplomatically withteachers, administrators, parents, students, support staff, and outside professional contacts.