Director of Special Education

Department: Education

Reports to: Executive Director

SUMMARY:

The Director of Education will ensure delivery of high-quality comprehensive academic, social, emotional and related services based on student IEP’s.  Students that attend Royer-Greaves School for Blind have primary disabilities of Visual Impairment including Blindness, Intellectual Disabilities and Multiple Disabilities. A primary responsibility of the job will be to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, as outlined by the Department of Education & Department of Health.  Responsibilities also encompass the development and supervision of a talented team of teachers and support staff.  Working closely with Executive leadership and instructional staff, the Director of Education will manage and coordinate all specialized services, including special education, academic and social-emotional interventions. With an unwavering commitment to individualized excellence, they will foster an educational environment where all students are empowered to excel to their maximum potential. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

  • Manage the programming of RGS including all Special Education Services, Academic and Social Emotional Interventions, and Behavior & Medical needs/services. 
  • Collaborate with Local Education Agency Representatives to coordinate supports and services 
  • Implement, supervise and facilitate IEP and school based intervention programs and curricula.
  • Supervise and coordinate the Individual Education Plan (IEP) 
  • Supervise and coordinate evaluations and related services for students.
  • Ensure that student files are in full compliance with all special education laws.
  • Provide leadership on the school’s Administrative Team.
  • Conduct informal and formal evaluations for special education teachers and other school staff members.
  • Provide oversight, monitoring, and evaluation of all academic, behavioral and therapeutic programs
  • Establish, maintain, monitor, and respond to data collection systems 
  • Ensure compliance of all special education requirements at local, state, and governmental levels.
  • Supervise the selection, maintenance and inventory of current and new instructional programs and instructional supplies.
  • In collaboration with the Executive Leadership, initiate and maintain communication on student performance and teacher practice with the administrative team, parents, and all staff members to serve the best interest of the students.
  • Oversee the implementation of all mandated testing by state, federal, or local agencies.
  • In collaboration with the Executive and HR Directors, ensure proper staffing for school program
  • Ensure timely and accurate submission of all local, state, and federal academic related reports. 
  • Develop and Implement a Professional Development Plan and oversee the Teacher Induction Program
  • Respond to all external and internal communication by following up in a timely manner.
  • Actively participate in the Alliance of Approved Private Schools monthly meetings
  • Complete all PDE licensure renewals and requirements
  • Establish and implement School Wide Positive Behavior Support Program
  • All other responsibilities as assigned by the Executive Director

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Master’s Degree in Special Education or related field
  • At least five (5) years of Educational Administration experience
  • Must have PA state certified as Supervisor of Special Education or Principal Certification
  • Knowledge of Federal and State Special Education Laws
  • Knowledge of teaching methods, curriculum, and education programs designed for students with vision, learning, physical and behavioral disabilities.
  • Knowledge of Positive Behavior Supports related to individuals with vision, learning, developmental, and/or emotional disabilities
  • Knowledge of Academic and Social Emotional Interventions
  • Strong communication skills and ability to develop trusting relationships with students, staff, and families.
  • A strong sense of personal agency and accountability for student achievement, care and wellbeing.
  • Demonstrated professionalism and responsibility, and a strong work ethic
  • A positive, high-energy attitude and a drive for personal excellence

COMPETENCIES:

  • Ability to recognize and define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Ability to comprehend, interpret, and/or communicate a variety of instructions provided in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form; 
  • Ability to problem solve using sound judgement, take initiative, and deal successfully with a variety of concrete variables when only limited standardization exists.
  • Ability to utilize a computer for communication, data management, and report development.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, staff, and the community; ability to effectively communicate and respond to inquiries from administrators, parents, staff members, colleagues, and the general community
  • Ability to effectively manage and meet multiple and competing demands and problems and multi-task effectively
  • Ability to remain calm in emergency situations and under pressure
  • Ability to read, comprehend, analyze, and interpret written materials; including professional journals, financial reports, legal documents, technical procedures, and governmental regulations and bulletins.
  • Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedural manuals
  • Ability to comprehend, apply, and communicate statistics for educational research and program management.
  • Ability to work in a diverse environment, personally demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect for cultural differences, educate others on the value of diversity, and help promote a diverse and harassment free work environment
  • Ability to consistently demonstrate integrity and uphold a high ethical standard in the workplace.
  • Ability to remain flexible and to deal successfully with frequent changes in the work environment, delays, and unexpected events .
  • Ability to demonstrate excellent punctuality/attendance and dependability
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality
  • Ability to maintain professionalism at all times and when under pressure, and to apply and demonstrate sound judgement and excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to demonstrate attention to detail, and maintain accuracy and thoroughness in the performance of job duties.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team, as well as independently, to solve problems and achieve goals and objectives.
  • Ability to  meet deadlines under severe time constraints, and to work irregular or extended hours.
  • Ability to monitor the work output of others
  • Ability to assume responsibility for the safety and well-being of others

BENEFITS:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Work Location: In person