Director of Special Education & Federal Programs

Job Title: Director of Special Education & Federal Programs

Exemption Status/Test: Exempt

Reports to: Assistant Superintendent

Dept./School: Executive Office Curriculum & Instruction Department

Date Revised:6/16/2026

Primary Purpose:

Coordinate the district in federal/special education programs. Collaborate with district staff and outside personnel to formulate develop implement and evaluate federal/special education programs. Grant management for Title I II III & IV IDEA & ESSER and grant development.

Education/Certification:

Masters degree

Valid Special Education Certification

Experience:

2 years experience in program or grant management

5 years experience in teaching experience in special education

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of federal and state special education law

Understanding of the individual needs of special needs students

Ability to organize and coordinate districtwide program

Ability to interpret data

Ability to communicate with all levels of special needs students and their parents

Familiarity with federal and special program rules and regulations

Ability to implement policy and procedures

Ability to manage budget

Strong organizational communication and interpersonal skills

Experience with ESPED and Skyward

Federal Grants

1. Evaluate all federal legislation projects and programs for grant entitlement and allocation opportunities relevant to the needs of the district.
2. Participate in the drafting of project proposals and reports including the writing and development of program goals objectives and budget for federal/special funding of programs.
3. Prepare and submit standard applications for federal funds to Texas Education Agency (TEA).
4. Evaluate all requests for projects and programs requiring federal/special money.
5. Coordinate a continuing evaluation of the federal/special programs and implement changes based on the findings.
6. Consult with administrators counselors teachers community agencies and other relevant individuals regarding federal/special programs.
7. Solicit federal funds and participate in grant-writing activities to obtain funding for federal/special programs and services.
8. Monitor grant-funded programs and their expenditures to ensure compliance with regulations and guidelines.
9. Ensure that programs are cost effective and that federal/special programs are managed wisely.
10. Compile budget and cost estimates based on documented program needs.

Instruction/Programs for Special Populations

1. Direct and manage special education programs and services to meet students need and evaluate the program for effectiveness.
2. Ensure that student progress is evaluated on a systematic basis and that the findings are used to make special education program more effective.
3. Encourage and support the development of innovative instructional programs helping teachers to pilot such efforts when appropriate.
4. Plan the necessary time resources and materials to support subordinates in accomplishing educational goals.
5. Manage the special education referral process; arrange for or conduct student assessments; make recommendations regarding placement and program management for individual students.
6. Supervise and monitor the admission review and dismissal (ARD) process district wide.
7. Participate in committee meetings to ensure the appropriate placement and development of individual education plans for students according to district procedures.
8. Supervise transition services for special education students entering and exiting public school programs.
9. Provide leadership in the formulation and implementation of contracts for special education students receiving services outside of the district.
10. Serve as resource person in the design and equipping of facilities for students with disabilities.
11. Establish and maintain open lines of communication by conducting conferences with parents students and teachers concerning vital issues.
12. Coordinate with the Assistant Superintendent to schedule/ provide professional learning designed to meet the needs of staff in support of special education students.
13. Participate in the recruitment selection and training of personnel and make sound recommendations relative to personnel placement assignment retention discipline and dismissal.

Policy Reports and Law

1. Inform superintendent or other administration of the effects of current and impending legislation.
2. Implement the policies established by federal and state law State Board of Education rule and local board policy in area of special education and federal grants to include reporting.
3. Compile maintain and file all physical and computerized reports records and other documents required.
4. Serve as liaison between school and other agencies on joint projects that are federally funded.
5. Administer the special education department budget and ensure that programs are cost effective and funds are managed prudently.

Special Education professional staff compliance coordinator teaching staff (w/principals) and contract services

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment computer peripherals electronic devices and telephone
• Posture: Prolonged sitting and standing occasional kneeling/squatting bending/stooping pushing/pulling twisting
• Motion: Frequent repetitive hand motions keyboarding use of mouse wrist flexion/extension
• Lifting: Lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds without assistance 30-55 pounds with assistance and more than 55 pounds with appropriate assistance
• Environment: Work is performed in an office setting and on campuses; frequent in-district travel; occasional statewide travel; occasional irregular and/or prolonged hours
• Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress work with frequent interruptions

Required Experience:

Director