***This position is an anticipated vacancy. It is expected to be vacant by 09/01/2018. However, the current incumbent has a right to rescind their retirement, leave, or resignation up until the day of the expected vacancy date. Your hire will not be confirmed until the position is vacated.

Boston Public Schools seeks a Senior Program Director of Dispute Resolution/Mediation Process (non-academic)

Reports to: Assistant Superintendent of OSE

Special Education Mediation is a voluntary and confidential dispute resolution process available at no cost through the BSEA. When school personnel and parents disagree about the educational needs of a student with disabilities, either party may request mediation. The Supervisor for Mediation will:

Responsibilities:

• When Mediation is requested, the Supervisor will assist school staff to clarify the issues and underlying concerns, explore interests, discuss options, review student documentation and collaborate to reach mutually satisfying agreements that address the needs of the student by:
• Schedule mediation session with BSEA, parent and school personnel
• Provide input into the development of a Mediation Agreement, if appropriate.
• Communicate the results of the agreement to all concerned parties
• Amend/adjust/represent the IEP if necessary/appropriate to reflect resolution decisions
• Consult with the Office of Legal Advisor on all mediation that do not result in resolution for next steps
• Maintain records of all pending disputes and final mediation agreements.

• Develop Guidelines for Practice around Mediation/Dispute Resolution Processes
• Develop tracking of Mediation/Dispute Resolution Requests
• Conduct Professional Development to school personnel on relevant procedural topics to avoid litigation issues.
• Consult with other BPS departments as necessary in the handling/resolution of dispute agreements.
• Support the maintenance and improvement of regulatory compliance by providing consultation, technical assistance, guidance and support to SESS Coordinators and Supervisors in their compliance-related activities.
• Provide guidance and monitoring in the implementation of 504 regulations and DESE mandates.
• Represent Boston Public Schools in METCO and Charter School meetings regarding students with disabilities
• Develop a tracking system for students in Charter or METCO schools that ensures effective communication with schools and families and timely responses to schools and families
• Perform other related duties assigned by Assistant Superintendent for Special Education.

Qualification-Required:

• Masters Degree in Education and/or a Law Degree
• Demonstrated capability to work collaboratively with administrators, direct service providers, families, students, and outside partners
• Certification in the field of special education or a related field
• Knowledge of Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Regulations, the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the regulations and standards of practice in a particular field
• Three years successful experience in an urban school system or urban human service setting, in a particular field
• Excellent problem solving, communication, organizational, and professional development skills
• Current authorization to work in the United States - Candidates must have such authorization by their first day of employment

Qualifications-Preferred:

• Bilingual
• Administrative/supervisory certification and experience
• Trained in Mediation techniques
• ELL category training and/or ESL certification

Terms: BASAS 12, 220 Days

Please refer to www.bostonpublicschools.org/ohc (under "Employee Benefits and Policies") for more information on salary and compensation. Salaries are listed by Unions and Grade/Step.

The Boston Public Schools, in accordance with its nondiscrimination policies, does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, criminal record (inquiries only), disability, homelessness, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals' dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.