<p>Job Description:</p> <p>Job Title: Director of Special Education</p> <p>Summary: The Director of Special Education is responsible for overseeing and coordinating all aspects of the district's special education services. This role involves managing a team of special education professionals, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and providing support to students with disabilities. The Director will work closely with school administrators, teachers, parents, and community partners to create a supportive, inclusive learning environment that enables students with special needs to succeed academically and socially.</p> <p>Responsibilities:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Leadership & Administration:</p> </li><li> <p>Supervise, evaluate, and provide professional development for special education staff, including teachers, paraprofessionals, and related service providers.</p> </li><li> <p>Oversee the creation and implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities.</p> </li><li> <p>Ensure compliance with all laws, regulations, and policies regarding special education services, including IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.</p> </li><li> <p>Program Development & Evaluation:</p> </li><li> <p>Design, evaluate, and refine special education programs and services to meet the needs of students with disabilities.</p> </li><li> <p>Monitor student progress and program effectiveness, adjusting services as necessary.</p> </li><li> <p>Collaboration & Communication:</p> </li><li> <p>Facilitate communication and collaboration between school staff, parents, and external agencies to ensure the academic, social, and emotional well-being of students with special needs.</p> </li><li> <p>Advocate for the needs of students with disabilities within the school community and beyond.</p> </li><li> <p>Serve as the district's liaison for all matters related to special education, including interactions with state and federal agencies, community organizations, and other stakeholders.</p> </li><li> <p>Attend Board of Education and Town of Pomfret meetings as needed.</p> </li><li> <p>Financial & Resource Management:</p> </li><li> <p>Manage the special education department's budget, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently to meet student needs.</p> </li><li> <p>Oversee the procurement of materials, equipment, and technology to support special education programs.</p> </li><li> <p>Monitor the use of district funds to ensure compliance with special education regulations.</p> </li><li> <p>Data Analysis & Reporting:</p> </li><li> <p>Collect and analyze data on the performance of students with disabilities, preparing reports for district leadership and external agencies as required.</p> </li><li> <p>Use data to inform decision-making and improve the effectiveness of special education services.</p> </li></ul> <p>Qualifications:</p> <ul> <li>Master's degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field. </li><li>Valid administrative credential and certification in special education. </li><li>Minimum of 5 years of experience in special education, including experience in a leadership role. </li><li>Strong knowledge of federal and state laws, regulations, and best practices related to special education. </li><li>Experience in budget management, resource allocation, and data analysis. </li><li>Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders. </li><li>Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities. </li></ul>