Special Education Department Chair: Leadership & Compliance

Illinois Education Job Bank; Park Ridge (IL); On-site; USD 145,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Illinois Education Job Bank is hiring a SPED Department Chair to lead special education programs, ensure compliance with IDEA/504, and serve as LEA representative in IEP meetings. You will supervise teachers and coordinate services across placement models, with a focus on inclusive practices and data-driven improvement.

The role requires a Master’s in Special Education or Educational Leadership, a valid IL PEL with LBS1, and at least five years of SPED leadership experience.

Qualifications

• General Administrative or Principal Endorsement per Illinois School Code (Section 21) and related training requirements.
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with LBS1 endorsement required.
• Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years of successful experience in special education.
• Demonstrated expertise in special education compliance, IEP facilitation, and instructional leadership.
• Strong organisational, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership in the design, implementation, and evaluation of high-quality special education programs aligned with district goals and state/federal mandates.
• Ensure compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and all related statutes.
• Serve as the LEA representative in IEP reviews and ensure IEPs are developed with fidelity.
• Oversee evaluation, placement, and services for students with disabilities across all service delivery models.
• Facilitate implementation of FBA and BIP and ensure staff training and compliance.
• Develop and implement department procedures for documentation, progress monitoring, and legal compliance.
• Collaborate with district leadership to ensure consistent policy application across schools.
• Supervise and evaluate staff within the Special Education Department.
• Provide coaching and professional development to promote instructional excellence and compliance.
• Manage daily schedules and substitute coverage for department staff.
• Oversee TA utilization to align with student needs and IEP requirements.
• Coordinate referrals, interventions, and out-of-district placements as appropriate.
• Lead PLTs and department meetings related to compliance, instruction, and inclusion.
• Collaborate with SE DLT to ensure district-wide consistency.

Skills

Principal Endorsement

PEL Illinois LBS1

Master's in Special Education

5+ years of experience in special ed

IEP facilitation

Instructional leadership

Organizational skills

Education

Master's degree in Special Education or Educational Leadership

Illinois PEL with LBS1 endorsement

General Administrative or Principal Endorsement

Job description

Illinois Education Job Bank is hiring a SPED Department Chair to lead special education programs, ensure compliance with IDEA/504, and serve as LEA representative in IEP meetings. You will supervise teachers and coordinate services across placement models, with a focus on inclusive practices and data-driven improvement.

The role requires a Master’s in Special Education or Educational Leadership, a valid IL PEL with LBS1, and at least five years of SPED leadership experience.