Exceptional Student Services Director

FLSA:EXEMPT

Title: Exceptional Student Services Director

Qualifications:

• Valid Louisiana teaching certificate.
• Masters degree in education special education or a related field.
• Certification in at least one area of special education.
• Minimum of five years of experience in special education with at least three years in a leadership or administrative role. (Preferred)

Reports to: Executive Assistant Superintendent or Superintendent

Job Goal: The Director of Exceptional Student Services (ESS) is responsible for the strategic oversight and leadership of all exceptional student programs across the district. This includes enhancing the quality of services for students with exceptional needs fostering a culture of inclusion and high expectations and ensuring adhering to state and federal mandates. The Director oversees the work of the Supervisor(s) of Exceptional Student Services and other staff within the department to ensure that all students achieve their full academic social and emotional potential.

Term: 12 months

Salary: Director Salary Schedule

Performance Responsibilities:

Leadership and Strategic Oversight:

• Develop and implement the districts vision and strategic plan for exceptional student services.

• Provide districtwide leadership in identifying and addressing the needs of students with exceptionalities.

• Supervise and evaluate the work of Supervisors of Exceptional Student Services and other departmental staff to ensure highquality service delivery.

• Supporting the growth of teacher capacity in meeting exceptional students yearly goals.

Team Management and Capacity Building:

• Provide coaching support and professional development opportunities to Supervisors special education teachers and related service providers.

• Facilitate teambuilding and collaboration within the Exceptional Student Services department.

• Develop and implement an onboarding program for new staff members in exceptional student services.

Collaboration and Advocacy:

• Serve as a liaison between the district and families schools community agencies and other stakeholders.

• Advocate for policies resources and practices that support the needs of exceptional students and their families.

• Work collaboratively with school leaders to foster inclusive practices and create equitable learning environments.

Program Development and Evaluation:

• Design and implement innovative programs and services to meet the diverse needs of students with exceptionalities.

• Use data to evaluate the effectiveness of special education programs and services and drive continuous improvement.

• Align departmental goals with the districts overall strategic priorities.

Communication and Reporting:

• Prepare and deliver regular reports to the Superintendent Executive Assistant Superintendent school board and other stakeholders on the performance and effectiveness of exceptional student programs.

• Maintain open and transparent communication with families community members and district staff.

Conflict Resolution and ProblemSolving:

• Address and resolve complex issues related to special education services including disputes and compliance concerns.

• Provide guidance and mediation in situations involving students staff and families.

Budget and Resource Management:

• Develop and manage the budget for exceptional student services ensuring efficient allocation of resources.

• Identify and pursue additional funding opportunities including grants to support exceptional student programs.

Accountability:

• Ensure districtwide adherence to IDEA Section 504 ADA and other relevant federal state and local regulations.

• Develop and monitor systems to ensure accurate and timely IEP development data collection and reporting.

• Oversee audits reviews and other evaluations of special education programs to ensure adherence to legal and policy requirements.

Continuous Improvement:

• Stay informed about current trends research and best practices in special education.

• Lead professional learning initiatives to enhance the knowledge and skills of district staff.

• Promote a culture of innovation and excellence in exceptional student services.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with district leadership in the development of policies and procedures impacting exceptional student services.

• Perform any additional duties as assigned by the Superintendent or Executive Assistant Superintendent.

Required Experience:

Director