Special Education School Program Manager

The Creekside School; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Creekside School in San Jose, California seeks an experienced Program Manager to lead and support its special education programs for students with autism and developmental disabilities. The role includes supervising staff, ensuring compliance with educational regulations, and fostering a collaborative team culture.

The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, and experience in special education, alongside a commitment to fostering student growth and development within a supportive educational environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in special education or related programs.
• 3+ years supporting individuals with autism or developmental disabilities.
• 2+ years of leadership or program coordination experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage oversight and operational support across educational programs.
• Support daily educational and therapeutic programming.
• Collaborate with staff to ensure high-quality education implementation.

Skills

Leadership and team development skills

Strong organizational skills

Excellent communication abilities

Problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Education or related field

Master’s Degree preferred

Tools

Google Workspace

Educational technology platforms

Job description

Special Education School Program Manager

Position Summary

The Creekside School is seeking an experienced, compassionate, and collaborative Program Manager to provide leadership, oversight, and operational support across educational serving students with autism and developmental disabilities.

The Program Manager serves as a partner, working closely with the Principal, Teachers, Related Service Providers, and program staff to ensure high quality implementation of educational programming, behavioral supports, staff development, and student services. This role is responsible for managing staffing, maintaining program fidelity, supporting compliance initiatives, and fostering a positive, student centered learning environment aligned with The School’s mission and philosophy.

Provide leadership of daily educational and therapeutic programming across assigned classrooms and programs.

With the Principal and Teachers, monitor overall program quality, consistency, and effectiveness through observation, data analysis, and staff feedback.

Support the development and implementation of program systems, procedures, and operational improvements.

Assist Administration in maintaining compliance with California Department of Education regulations, student safety requirements, and organizational policies.

Collaborate with school leadership regarding staffing, classroom support needs, scheduling, and crisis response planning.

Staff Supervision & Development

• Supervise Floater and Substitute Teaching Assistants
• Coach, mentor, and support Teaching Assistants, Floater, Substitute Teaching Assistants, and other assigned program staff.
• Conduct observations, provide performance feedback, and support staff accountability and professional growth.
• Participate in interviewing, hiring, onboarding, scheduling support, and retention efforts for program staff.
• Develop and facilitate staff training and professional development opportunities. Ensure staff complete required trainings, certifications, and compliance requirements within established timelines.
• Foster a collaborative, respectful, and solutions-focused team culture.
• Assist with daily staffing coordination and coverage to support classroom and program needs.

Educational & Behavioral Program Support

• Partner with Program and Related Service Providers to support individualized educational and behavioral programming.
• Support staff in implementing evidence based and developmentally appropriate practices for students with autism and developmental disabilities.
• Support the development of positive learning environments that promote communication, self regulation, independence, and social emotional growth.
• Ensure restrictive interventions are utilized only in accordance with approved safety protocols, training, and student plans.

Operational & Administrative Responsibilities

• Review and monitor educational, behavioral, and program related data to support student progress and program effectiveness.
• Assist with maintaining accurate documentation, training records, and program systems.
• Participate in leadership meetings, student team meetings, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Support implementation of school initiatives, policies, and organizational priorities.
• Serve as a liaison between program staff and administration to support communication, problem solving, and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Special Education, Psychology, Behavior Analysis, Human Development, or related field required. Master’s Degree preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of experience working in special education, behavioral, therapeutic, or school based programs.
• Minimum 3 years of experience supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder and/or developmental disabilities.
• Minimum 2 years of leadership, supervisory, or program coordination experience preferred.
• Experience in nonpublic schools, special education settings, or therapeutic programs strongly preferred.

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, and neurodiverse learning profiles.
• Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), positive behavior supports, crisis intervention, and trauma informed practices.
• Understanding of IEP implementation, educational programming, and special education compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with augmentative and alternative communication systems and sensory integration supports.
• Knowledge of classroom management, staff coaching, and program development practices.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership, supervision, and team development skills.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication abilities.
• Strong organizational, problem solving, and decision making skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced educational environment.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and composure during crisis situations.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace, educational technology platforms, and data collection systems.
• Ability to build positive working relationships with staff, students, and families.

Physical Requirements

This position requires active engagement within educational and therapeutic environments serving students with intensive support needs. Employees must be able to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and move throughout the school day. Employees must also be able to lift, move, and support students or materials as needed, participate in Safety-Care training, implement approved crisis intervention procedures when necessary, and respond effectively and safely during student behavioral escalations or emergencies.

Why Join The Creekside School?

The Creekside School is committed to creating a supportive, collaborative, and mission driven environment where students and staff can thrive. Our team is passionate about providing meaningful educational and therapeutic experiences that empower students to build independence, communication, confidence, and lifelong skills.

We value innovation, teamwork, professional growth, and compassionate care, and we are dedicated to fostering a workplace where every employee feels respected, supported, and inspired to make a lasting impact every day.