DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL SERVICES

Director Of Special Services

The Special Education Director provides leadership, direction, and oversight for the district's special education programs to ensure compliance with federal and state laws, district policies, and best practices. This position supervises, evaluates and mentors special education staff, manages program budgets, coordinates services for students with disabilities, supports administrators and teachers, and collaborates with families and outside agencies to promote student success. The Director is responsible for ensuring that all special education services are delivered in accordance with IDEA, Section 504, Idaho State Department of Education requirements, and district goals.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree or higher from an accredited university
• Broad background in Special Education, ADA and 504 Services
• Five years of successful teaching experience
• Valid Certification Special Education
• Such additions and alternatives to the above qualifications as the Superintendent or School Board may find appropriate and acceptable.

Performance Responsibilities:

• Establish and maintain services for students with special needs.
• Plan and administer the Special Services Dept. in conjunction with the Superintendent.
• Plan and supervise record keeping systems and budget for program.
• Facilitate identification and purchase of equipment for program.
• Manage and supervise program's departmental administrative and clerical operations.
• Conduct regular meetings with professional staff and other interested parties.
• Monitor and evaluate existing programs for operational effectiveness and make changes or recommendations for improvement.
• Determine the need for new programs and services.
• Recruit, select and place Special Services personnel.
• Assist building principals, when requested, with selection of Special Education teachers and aides.
• Assign personnel in the homebound tutoring program.
• Develop in-service training programs for Special Education personnel.
• Prepare all financial and program reports required by the State Department of Education.
• Participate in special consultations and case conferences.
• Provide instructional consultation for IEP development and team meetings.
• Act as a liaison between the district and consulting specialists, including psychiatrists and psychologists.
• Arrange for alternative education programs for students who cannot be served adequately in local districts.
• Coordinate departmental operations with other agencies.
• Maintain liaison with community mental health clinics, parent/patron groups, special schools and other resources offering therapeutic services.
• Interpret the Special Services Program to school personnel and the community at large; problem solving and conflict resolution with staff and parents/patrons.
• Represent the district and the programs in a positive manner regarding customer service and public relations.
• Assist in the development of special programs for students.
• Implement policy for the district's Special Services to ensure ADA and 504 compliance.
• Develop a program of assessment through research and evaluation projects.
• Keep abreast of developments in the field and act as a resource for Special Services staff and other personnel.
• Act as purchasing agent for Special Services.
• Assume responsibility for own professional growth and development.
• Know and follow school district policy and chain of command.
• Acts ethically and confidentially in all aspects of employment.
• Other duties as assigned

Evaluation: The performance of this position will be evaluated annually in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy on the evaluation of certified personnel.