26-27 Director of Special Education

Director of Special Education

Exemption Status/Test: Exempt/Executive

Reports to: Executive Director of Special Education

Date Revised: March 2026

Dept./School: Special Education

Primary Purpose:

Direct and manage all of the Wise County Shared Services special education programs. 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.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Master's degree

Texas principal certification

Certified Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System (T-TESS) appraiser

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 all students and their parents

Ability to implement policy and procedures

Ability to interpret data

Ability to manage budget and personnel

Strong organizational, communication, collaboration, and leadership skills

Experience:

5 years of experience as a school administrator

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Instructional and Program Management

1. Oversee the development and delivery of curriculum and instructional programs that incorporate district goals and support student achievement. Ensure that curriculum renewal is continuous and responsive to student needs.
2. Develop and implement an effective referral process and ensure that student assessments and recommendations regarding placement and program management for individual students are completed in a timely manner.
3. Monitor the admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) process district wide. Participate in committee meetings as needed to ensure that students are placed appropriately and development of individual education plans for students are consistent with district procedures. Ensure that student progress is evaluated on a systematic basis.
4. Obtain and use evaluative findings (including student achievement data) to gauge program effectiveness. Make changes when warranted.
5. Ensure that the necessary time, resources, materials, and technology to support and accomplish educational goals are available. Encourage and support the development of innovative instructional programs.
6. Direct transition services for special education students entering and exiting public school programs.
7. Take an active role in formulating and implementing contracts for special education students receiving services outside of the district.

Student Management

1. Demonstrate support for the district's student management policies and expected student behavior related to special education.

Policy, Reports, and Law

1. Implement the policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the areas of special education. Recommend sound policies and procedures to improve programs.
2. Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required.

Budget and Inventory

1. Develop and administer the special education budget based on documented needs and ensure that operations are cost effective and funds are managed wisely.
2. Maintain a current inventory of supplies and equipment and recommend the replacement and disposal of equipment when necessary.

Personnel Management

1. Assist with preparing, reviewing, and reviewing job descriptions in the special education department.
2. Select, train, supervise, and evaluate staff and make recommendations relative to assignment, retention, discipline, and dismissal.

Communication and Community Relations

1. Establish and maintain a professional relationship and open communication with principals, teachers, staff, parents, and community members.
2. Serve as the district liaison to all Wise County Shared Services Districts, community agencies, and all other entities providing services to students.
3. Articulate the Wise County Shared Services Districts' mission and goals in the area of special education to the community and solicit its support in realizing the mission.
4. Demonstrate awareness of district-community needs and initiate activities to meet those needs.
5. Use appropriate and effective techniques to encourage community and parent involvement.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervise, evaluate, and recommend the hiring and firing of special education staff.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals

Posture: Prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, twisting

Motion: Repetitive hand motions, frequent keyboarding, and use of mouse

Lifting: Occasional light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds)

Environment: Frequent countywide travel; occasional statewide travel

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.