Assistant Program Director - Mel King Academy [BASAS 7] (SY25-26)

Boston Public Schools; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Boston Public Schools is seeking visionary educational leaders for the Mel King Academy Schools, which cater to students with special needs. The role involves supervising staff, implementing educational plans, and ensuring compliance with educational regulations. Candidates should hold a Master’s degree and have significant experience in special education or human services.

Qualifications

• At least three years of successful teaching or human services experience with children or adolescents with special needs.
• Licensure as a Principal/Assistant Principal or Supervisor/Director.

Responsibilities

• Supervise Guidance Advisors, Special Needs, Vocational Teachers, and Special Education Teachers.
• Plan and implement the Quality School Plan and staff training.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and coordinate interdisciplinary service teams.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal Skills

Problem Solving

Education

Master’s degree in education, special education, or related field

Job description

Reports to: Head of School

General Description:

The Mel King Academy Schools are trauma-sensitive, therapeutic public day schools for students with moderate to severe behavioral, emotional, and learning disabilities. The Elementary School serves students in grades K-5, ages 5-11. The Middle School serves students in grades 6-8, ages 11-15. The High School serves students in grades 8-12, ages 14-22.

Boston Public Schools is seeking visionary and dynamic educational leaders for our schools. We desire highly motivated, results-oriented professionals committed to high standards of performance and achievement for both students and educators.

Responsibilities:

1. Supervise Guidance Advisors, Special Needs, Vocational Teachers, Special Education Teachers, Instructional Assistant Trainees, and Student Support Team. Conduct classroom observations, performance evaluations, and meet regularly with clinical staff.
2. As part of the Administrative Leadership Team, under the guidance of the Program Director and Headmaster, plan and implement the Quality School Plan, policies, procedures, program monitoring, staff training, and development.
3. Ensure compliance with regulations from Boston Public Schools and the State Department of Education (chapters 766, 622, 504, and 74), along with school policies and guidelines.
4. Coordinate, supervise, and evaluate the work of the interdisciplinary service team, including admissions, assessment, teaching, counseling, behavior support, case management, and record keeping.
5. Maintain class information such as records, logs, and hearings.
6. Compile reports on suspensions, assaults, behavior support, and attendance monthly and annually.
7. Provide technical assistance to staff regarding purchasing services, supplies, and equipment.
8. Build and maintain relationships with families, guardians, and other service providers including DSS, DYS, DMH, MRC, and courts.
9. Research and analyze interpersonal conflicts or service failures.
10. Serve as a Hearing Officer.
11. Establish and maintain constructive relationships with faculty senate and student council.
12. Perform additional duties as assigned by the Program Director and Headmaster.

Qualifications

Required:

• Master’s degree in education, special education, vocational education, social work, or related field.
• At least three years of successful teaching or human services experience with children or adolescents with special needs.
• Ability to manage student behavior, lead staff, and solve administrative problems.
• Experience in administration and supervision in special education or human services.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal skills, and personal qualities for effective collaboration with students, staff, and parents.
• Ability to foster a culturally competent environment that promotes growth and positive self-image.
• Licensure as a Principal/Assistant Principal or Supervisor/Director.

Preferred Qualifications:

• ESL licensed, SEI endorsed, RETELL trained.
• Experience as a school administrator.
• Moderate special needs teaching license or licenses such as L.S.W., L.C.S.W., L.I.C.S.W., or Psychologist with DESE License.

Terms: BASAS, Group 7, 207 days, with additional compensation for extra time and work.

Refer to the salary section on the Career Site for details. Salaries are listed by Union and Grade/Step.

Many BPS schools will extend the school day through the "Schedule A" Extended Learning Time (ELT) program next year. For more information, visit: bostonpublicschools.org/elt

The Boston Public Schools adhere to nondiscrimination policies and do not discriminate based on race, color, age, disability, pregnancy, homelessness, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, genetics, hairstyle, military status, immigration status, or English proficiency. We prohibit retaliation and bias-based harassment. For ADA accommodations during the application process, contact [e-mail].