Director of Special Education

Overview We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Director of Special Education to join our team to work in our private school. Currently, enrollment is at 9 students. The school is a small, private school located in the Fox Chapel area of Pittsburgh, PA. We are seeking candidates with experience working with students with complex educational needs. Children in grades kindergarten to 8th grade will be accepted into the school. The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment for students with diverse needs. This role involves working closely with students who require individualized support, helping them achieve their academic and personal goals. The Director of Special Education will collaborate with parents, staff, and other professionals to create tailored educational experiences that promote growth and development. Our mission is to provide specialized education held to the highest standards, ensuring that each student achieves their full potential in a nurturing and supportive environment. At River Academy of Excellence, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. River Academy is heavily staffed with full-time Special Education teachers, BCBA, Behavior Therapists, an LCSW, and Paraprofessionals to support each student’s needs. Duties The individual will be responsible for running a classroom of up to 8 students. Additionally, the individual will be responsible for creating lesson plans, supporting paraprofessionals within the classroom, and collaborating with behavior support. The Director of Special Education will communicate frequently and effectively with school districts and caregivers, as well as ensure compliance of IEPs, scheduling IEP meetings, and coordinating the meetings between therapists, teachers, families, and districts. Experience A degree in Special Education is required. Expert knowledge in IEPwriter of Pennsylvania is required. Strong administrative skills are required. Experience with behavioral supports is required. Experience in childcare or preschool settings is preferred. Familiarity with principles and practices of childhood development is essential. Strong communication skills are necessary for effective collaboration with students, parents, and colleagues. Previous experience working in a special education classroom setting is highly desirable. Strong understanding of special education laws, regulations, and best practices. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, parents, and outside agencies. Commitment to ongoing professional development and growth. Join a team of professionals who value a child-first approach to education and have a passion for meeting every child’s needs in a unique way to ensure efficient and effective progress!! Why You'll Love Us: With this being our 25th year of business, River Therapies brings a wealth of growth and passion to the therapy aspect of the greater Pittsburgh area. At River Therapies, we are constantly evolving and increasing our skill sets, while maintaining our values of showing kindness and helping families in need of our therapeutic services. We give back to our community through daycare screens, summer camp programs, and various donations to organizations in the area. Our staff support each other and encourage individual and company successes, working together to help each child and family we serve. River Therapies also promotes therapist success by addressing individual needs and rewarding excellence. We encourage staff to reach their potential by assisting with certifications and continuing education, and staff meetings are held to increase our working knowledge of topics that are important to our therapists. Our mentorship opportunities include, but are not limited to, regular communication with a team leader, communication with all discipline staff, access to online resources, meetings with administration, and continuing education opportunities to support topics of interest. We are a group of hardworking and dedicated professionals, and we would love the opportunity for you to join our growing team! DEI Statement: River Therapies, Inc. is committed to providing an inclusive, positive working environment that ensures the happiness and success of each of our therapists, celebrating each accomplishment with you! We pride ourselves on hiring, mentoring/training, and retaining a company of employees from varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. EOE Statement: River Therapies, Inc. is a proud equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate based on race, gender, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status. Employment Type: Full Time Bonus/Commission: No