Director, Special Education

Classification: Admin/Prof

Exemption Status/Test: Exempt/Administrative

Job Grade: 8

Department: Special Education

Reports To: Chief of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning

Job Goal:

The Director of Special Education at Region 4 ESC will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the development, implementation, and oversight of special education programs and services. The Director will ensure internal compliance with state and federal regulations, externally promote best practices in special education, and foster an inclusive environment that supports the diverse needs of students with disabilities across the region.

Qualifications:

Education

Master's degree in Special Education, Educational Administration, or a related field

Certification

Valid Texas Educator Certificate in Special Education, or a related field

Experience

• Five years of experience in special education leadership at the district level, including supervisory experience (i.e. Special Education Executive Director, Special Education Director)

• In-depth knowledge of federal and state laws, regulations, and policies related to special education

• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

• Proven ability to lead and manage a team effectively

• Experience in budget development and fiscal management

• Experience developing resources and presenting professional development

• In-depth experience in performance management strategies that foster individual and team positive results

Special Knowledge and Skills

• Broad-based knowledge of rules and regulations related to special education, including programming, staffing, budgeting/fiscal management, and inclusive practices

• Demonstrated ability and experience in personnel management, including building relationships and maintaining morale, setting challenging goals and reaching a high standard of performance despite barriers, demonstrated initiative and persistence, setting clear expectations and holding others accountable for performance; acting with a purpose that impacts and positively influences the perceptions, thinking, and actions of others; development of others through coaching, modeling, and providing feedback on performance

• Deep understanding of various disabilities and their educational implications

• Proficiency in developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and knowledge of Response to Intervention (RTI) frameworks

• Expertise in data analysis and interpretation to inform instruction and program development

• Familiarity with assistive technology and its application in special education

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make data-driven decisions

• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with diverse stakeholders, including parents, teachers, administrators, and community partners

• Excellent presentation and facilitation skills, with experience delivering professional development

• Knowledge of cultural competence and strategies for promoting equity and inclusion in special education

Preferred Qualifications:

Doctoral degree

Major Responsibilities:

1.Leadership and Administration

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for special education services in collaboration with the Chief of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning in collaboration with the Executive Director and other stakeholders.

• Supervise and evaluate special education staff, including coordinators, specialists, and support personnel.

• Provide leadership and guidance to school districts within the region to enhance the quality of special education programs and services.

• Advocate and oversee budget development and management for special education programs, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with organizational goals and grants.

2.Program Development and Implementation

• Serve as a thought partner in supporting Region 4 LEAs in the design and implementation of innovative special education programs that meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities.

• Support LEAs in ensuring all programs comply with federal and state laws, regulations, and policies related to special education.

• Collaborate with school administrators, teachers, parentes, and community partners to develop and deliver effective special educatoin resources and support.

• Monior and evealuate the regional effectiveness of special education programs, using data-driven decision-making to drive continuous improvement across Region 4 ESC.

3.Professional Development

• Plan and deliver professional development opportunities for special education staff and general education teachers to enhance their knowledge and skills.

• Stay current with research, trends, and best practices in special education and disseminate this information to staff and stakeholders.

• Foster a culture of professional growth and development within the special education department.

4.Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure all special education programs adhere to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and other relevant federal and state regulations by championing proactive compliance and support opportunities.

• Prepare and submit required reports to state and federal agencies, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.

• Conduct regular proactive audits of special education programs to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.

5.Collaboration and Advocacy

• Serve as a liaison between TEA, Region 4 ESC, school districts, parents, and community agencies regarding special education issues.

• Advocate for the needs and rights of students with disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate services and support.

• Participate in local, state, and national organizations and committees related to special education.

Supervision/Personnel Management

Supervise all Special Education personnel, including completing evaluations and conducting staff training.

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors/ Mental Demands:

Frequent use of standard office equipment; prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting; repetitive hand motions (keyboarding and use of mouse); occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 20 pounds); may work prolonged and irregular hours; regional travel and occasional statewide travel; work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure.