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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SPECIAL EDUCATION AND STUDENT SERVICES

Job Details
Job ID: 3436885
Application Deadline: Posted until Filled
Posted: January 29, 2021
Starting Date: July 1, 2021

Job Description
New Bedford Public Schools Administration
CLASS DESCRIPTION

OFFICIAL TITLE: Executive Director, Special Education and Student Services
WORKING TITLE: Director, Special Education and Student Services
REPORTS TO: Superintendent of Schools
MONTHS: 12

The New Bedford Public Schools Executive Director of Special Education and Student Services represents and exercises the authority of the superintendent in directing the implementation of the school systems' strategic plans, initiatives, policies and programs. Major duties include managing the activities of the reporting department directors for the effective and efficient operation of areas of responsibility and providing oversight and direction with the development and implementation of the OSE budget. The director manages the student services, special education, and system including the delivery of guidance services and counseling services, psychological and related services, and the development, delivery and implementation of the following programs: diploma bound and non-diploma bound special education, including early childhood (birth to kindergarten), home and hospital teaching and home instruction.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Thorough knowledge of the subject fields of special education, counseling, psychology, social services, and early childhood. Thorough knowledge of federal laws pertaining to students with disabilities, school laws of Massachusetts, by laws of the state Board of Education, and the policies of the NBPS School Committee. Excellent organizational, supervisory, written and oral communication skills, and interpersonal skills.

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION: Qualifications

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE: Required: Master's degree in one of the following: special education, guidance and counseling, school psychology, or related field. SPED certification (or eligible). Demonstrated successful administrative leadership experience (5 years minimum) in the planning, development and implementation of programs in special education or student services, in working with parents and community groups, in legal issues related to special education or related fields.
  • Such alternatives to the above as deemed appropriate by the Superintendent.

    PHYSICAL DEMANDS: (Special requirements such as lifting heavy objects and frequent climbing.) None
    SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: (Frequent overtime or night work required, etc.) Ability to work flexible hours including some evening and weekend work
    OVERTIME ELIGIBLE: NO
    CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requirements: Certification as an Administrator of Special Education or Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent or its equivalent

    JOB GOALS
    •Review, develop and build a continuum of effective special education programs and services for K-12 New Bedford students.
    •Analyze, promote and monitor service delivery models focused on student progress and increased student achievement.

    •Develop fiscal processes and procedures for grants and local expenditures that support program needs within the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).

    EXAMPLES OF PERFORMANCE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

    •Coordinate and supervise the Office of Specialized Instruction including School Adjustment Counselors, Psychologists, Related Service Providers, Guidance, Special Education, Health Services, ELL, and other programs for special populations.
    •Responsive to the needs and interests of all learners by meeting them where they are and providing them with explicit supports so that they can reach their full potential at the school level with support from the school principal and the central offices.
    •Explicitly provide opportunities that impart skills and knowledge to learners that prepares them for academic, personal, social and emotional success at the school level with support from the principal and the central offices
    •Advise, inform and act as a resource to the Superintendent, administrators, and staff on matters pertaining to special education and pupil service departments.
    •Review existing programs and services for special education and pupil service departments and work with Principals and department heads to develop and recommend new programs or changes to programs as required.
    •Coordinate district professional development programs for special education and pupil service departments.
    •Explicitly work collaboratively with district personnel, principals and the program directors to support student centered learning for all students in the school.
    •Lead the redesign of putting forth the principles of student-centered learning into all of the classrooms in the district
    •Ensure that the needs of all students are met through the creation of individual success plans and the enforcement of individual education plans at the school with assistance from the principals and the central offices
    •Provide and create whole child support systems that ensure academic success for all students by developing and overseeing the individual success plans of all students in the district.
    •Engage families and community in being a meaningful part in the education of their students
    •Oversee and monitor data systems that supports student learning through progress reports to inform and adapt instruction to meet the needs of students at the building level.
    •Work collaboratively with the school principal to engage families and community members in meaningful ways that enhance the educational experiences of students.
    •Maintain a high level of knowledge regarding changes in the law, compliance and methods of educating students with disabilities, for the purpose of managing an excellent special education programs.
    •Incorporate policies and procedures in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.
    •Ensure that all practices in the district are legal and ethical for each student/family so that each child has the opportunity to achieve at a high level and be prepared for post-secondary success
    •Develop proposals, new programs, budgets and grants for the purpose of meeting the District's Strategic Plan and goals
    •Directs the Medicaid Administrative Claiming process and direct billing of Medicaid-eligible special education services provided by the district, for the purpose of gaining fiscal resources.
    •Implement conflict resolution skills in a variety of situations with staff, families, and the community.
    •Fulfill the district's obligation to Proportionate Share through ongoing collaboration to ensure that the district is providing equitable services for involved students.
    •Lead district-wide professional development in collaboration with the school principal and central office staff to build and enhance educator's abilities to enhance student centered learning and services for all students professional.
    •Ensure that special education services and programs are provided with high academic quality through student centered principles and practices in developing and supporting students individual success plans
    •Any other responsibilities assigned by the superintendent.
    •Serve as the District Section 504/ADA Coordinator:
    •Develop, maintain and update procedures for the implementation of Section 504/ADA.
    •Provide training and consultation to administration and staff for the implementation of Section 504/ADA.
    •Monitor the implementation of Section 504/ADA.
    •Respond to and investigate complaints from parents/agencies regarding the implementation of Section 504/ADA.
    •Hear grievances arising from the implementation of Section 504/ADA.

    •Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time by the Superintendent of Schools.

    EVALUATION: Performance of this position will be evaluated annually by the Superintendent accordance with the MA state educator evaluation requirements

    TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:
    As per individual contract between the Superintendent and the Executive Director of Special Education and Student Services
    Other duties as assigned by the Superintendent of Schools
    Full calendar year, with vacation time as negotiated

    This description may be changed at any time

    Position Type: Full-time
    Positions Available: 1
    Equal Opportunity Employer
    New Bedford Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.

    Job Requirements
  • At least 5 years of relevant experience preferred
  • Master degree preferred
  • Citizenship, residency or work VISA in United States required


  • Application Questions
    There are no application questions required for this job posting.

    Contact Information
    Heather Emsley
    455 County Street
    New Bedford, Massachusetts 02740
    Phone: (508) 997-4511
    Email: hemsley@newbedfordschools.org

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