School (BASAS 9A) (SY19-20)
Job Title: Special Education Program Director (BASAS 9A)

Reports to: Principal/Headmaster

General Description:

Brighton High is currently seeking visionary and dynamic individuals to serve as educational leaders in our school. We are looking for a highly motivated, exceptional, results oriented, independent professional who is committed to high standards of performance and achievement by both students and educators.

If you are excited by the idea of joining a team at the ground floor, and introducing transformational changes to turn a school around, then Brighton High School is interested in you! We are seeking candidates who are committed to high expectations for achievement, closing achievement gaps, and academic proficiency for all.

As BHS enters its first year as a Level 4 Turnaround School, we are restructuring to introduce career pathways and interdisciplinary, project-based learning using the Linked Learning approach (see: https://lausd.wistia.com/medias/1sxmywkrsq ). Through the interdisciplinary pathways, Brighton High's diverse students will gain a vivid understanding of the connections between academics and the world of work via interactions with industry partners, job shadows, internships, and dual-enrollment industry certification programs. Students in these pathways will also benefit from the closeness of a small learning community. We are extending the day by 30 minutes to support student success, and adding time in the summer and school year for staff professional development and collaboration. Teachers will have many opportunities for leadership and creativity as we build out programming to meet our students' needs, develop interdisciplinary curriculum, and create exciting connections to outside partners.

***This school has been designated as a Level 4 or 5 School by the State of Massachusetts. This designation allows districts to utilize the new tools granted in the landmark education reform law that was passed in 2010 to provide additional services for these schools. Some of these tools will allow for extended time and extra compensation where needed.

Additional responsibilities such as extended day and/or year, schedules, and duties are subject to collective bargaining and turnaround plan.

Founded in 1647, Boston Public Schools (BPS) is the oldest public school district in the country. With approximately 56,000 students from over 114 different countries, nearly 9,000 employees (including 5,000 teachers) and an annual budget of $829 million, the BPS is the largest school district in Massachusetts and is one of the most diverse as well. BPS has been recognized as one of the top urban school districts in the United Students and was recently awarded the Broad Prize for Urban Education as the most improved urban school district in the nation.

The Special Education Program Director will assist the leadership of the school in carrying out all Chapter 28 regulatory responsibilities required for maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations and court orders. In addition, it is expected that the Program Director for Special Education will improve the quality of instruction for all students with disabilities, assist in the professional development activities for both regular and special education staff, and contribute to the overall culture of the school as an agent of change committed to progressive educational reform and meeting the needs of all students in a rigorous academic environment.

Responsibilities:

1. Assists the in implementation of all special education programs, including but not limited to the coordination of the development of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students referred for Chapter 28 services, testing, running meetings, and the creation and implementation of 504s and 688s and, in carrying out all Chapter 28 regulations and court orders.
2. Develops and implements integrative/inclusive programs within the school working with school leadership to evaluate and monitor their effectiveness in terms of quality service to students.
3. Work with staff members, both in the classroom and in professional development opportunities, to support differentiated instruction.
4. Assists in planning the implementation of literacy programs and behavior intervention models to support alignment of citywide learning standards with effective teaching practices.
5. Model, co-teach, and observe in classes.
6. Provide feedback and suggestions to support teachers in their efforts to support a range of learners.
7. Support the creation and implementation of portfolios.
8. Assume a lead role in the professional development activities of special education and regular education teachers to improve instruction for all special education students.
9. Oversees the development and coordination of curriculum goals and objectives and distribution of instructional materials for the school's special education programs.
10. Work with families to increase their engagement in their child's school experience.
11. Maintains responsive lines of communication among students, parents, and staff involved with special education programs.
12. Support improved attendance and timeliness, homework completion, classroom on-task behavior, etc.
13. Work collaboratively with school administrators, faculty and staff to ensure consistent implementation of the school-based rules and the Code of Conduct
14. Perform other responsibilities as designated by the Headmaster.

Qualifications:
Required:

• Master's Degree in education with a concentration in Special Education Administration and/or a related field
• Massachusetts Supervisor/Director license or Administrator of Special Education Provisional with Advanced Standing or Standard
• Three (3) years teaching experience
• Massachusetts teacher license in special education
• Experience and training in the supervision and evaluation of teachers/as a professional developer
• Demonstrated leadership qualities, interpersonal skills, and personal characteristics necessary for working effectively with students, teachers, administrators, and parents
• Ability to establish a diverse multi-cultural atmosphere that enhances individual growth and promotes a positive self-image
• Experience with and/or knowledge of educational reform
• Experience with and knowledge of advising programs
• Knowledge of MA Curriculum Frameworks, Vocational Frameworks and Assessments

Preferred:

• Experience in working with students during transitions (orientations, moving to college)
• Experience developing or working within both an inclusion model and a learning center model
• Interest in working in fast-paced environment and ability to manage multiple responsibilities with humor and enthusiasm

Terms:BASAS 9A

Please refer to the Salary Compensation section on the Career Site for more information on compensation. Salaries are listed by Union 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.