Director of Special Education

Director Of Special Education

The position of a Director of Special Education will be available immediately at East Central ISD for the 2026-2027 school year. Direct and manage the district's special education program. Ensure that services are provided for special needs students and individualized education plans are provided to meet the needs of all students. Warrant compliance with all state, federal, and local requirements.

Oversee the development and delivery of special education, 504, and dyslexia curriculum and instructional programs that incorporate district goals and support student achievement. Ensure that curriculum renewal is continuous and responsive to student needs. Monitor district compliance with IDEA, Section 504, state special education regulations, and accountability requirements. Coordinate responses to audits, complaints, investigations, and corrective action plans as necessary. Develop and implement an effective special education referral process and ensure that student assessments and recommendations regarding placement and program management for individual students are completed in a timely manner. Monitor the admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) process districtwide. Participate in committee meetings as needed to ensure that students are placed appropriately and the development of individual education plans for students are consistent with district procedures. Ensure that student progress is evaluated on a systematic basis. Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of strategic plans designed to improve student outcomes and special education program effectiveness through the analysis of student achievement and program data. Ensure that the necessary time, resources, materials, and technology to accomplish educational goals are available. Encourage and support the development of innovative instructional programs. Plan, coordinate, and deliver professional learning opportunities for special education staff, administrators, and general education staff to ensure effective implementation of special education services and legal requirements. Direct transition services for special education students entering and exiting public school programs. Take an active role in formulating and implementing contracts for special education students receiving services outside of the district. Demonstrate support for the district's student management policies and expected student behavior related to the special education programs. Implement the policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the area of special education. Direct and monitor homebound services to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, appropriate instructional delivery, accurate documentation, and successful transitions between homebound and campus-based educational settings. Ensure the accuracy, maintenance, and submission of all required federal, state, and local reports related to special education programs and services. Develop and administer the special education budget based on documented needs and ensure that operations are cost-effective and funds are managed wisely. Maintain a current inventory of supplies and equipment and recommend the replacement and disposal of equipment when necessary. Prepare, review, and revise job descriptions in the special education department. Select, train, supervise, and evaluate staff and make recommendations relative to assignment, retention, discipline, and dismissal. Establish and maintain a professional relationship and open communication with principals, teachers, staff, parents, and community members. Establish and maintain effective communication and collaborative relationships with principals, staff, parents, community agencies, and other stakeholders. Promote family and community engagement by communicating the district's vision for special education, identifying community needs, and fostering partnerships that support student success. Oversee SHARS, Medicaid reimbursement, special education grants, and other funding sources to maximize revenue and ensure compliance with fiscal requirements. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education/Certification: Master's degree Mid-management or Principal Certification Preferred
• Special Knowledge/Skills: Knowledge of federal and state special education law Understanding of the individual needs of special needs students Ability to communicate with all levels of special needs students and their parents Ability to implement policy and procedures Ability to interpret data Ability to manage budget and personnel Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Experience: 3 years of teaching experience and/or supporting special education services

Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals

Work Conditions: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress. Prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting. Repetitive hand motions, frequent keyboarding, and use of a mouse. Occasional light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds). Frequent districtwide travel; occasional statewide travel. Protracted and irregular hours of work. Period of Employment: 220-day basis Salary: Administrative Pay Grade 108 Based upon experience.