Job Posting: Director of Student Services
Date: December 23, 2024
Position Overview:
The Director of Student Services will oversee the planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of special education, English learner education, and homeless programs, including departmental and grant budgets. The Director will ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, policies, and regulations, including but not limited to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Michigan Administrative Rules for Special Education (MARSE). This position will provide leadership in supporting students with diverse educational needs, ensuring they receive the appropriate services, and fostering an inclusive, equitable environment across all district schools and programs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide visionary leadership and direction for all programs under the responsibility of the Student Services Director.
- Collaborate with school administrators and department staff to develop and implement the programs, services, and supports to ensure the unique needs of all students are addressed.
- Lead the process of identifying, evaluating, and placing students in appropriate special education, 504, or English Learner programs and services to ensure a continuum of services from early childhood through post high school.
- Ensuring district compliance with all state and federal laws governing special education, 504, and English Learner education.
- Prepare and submit required reports, budgets, and data to the Michigan Department of Education and other relevant agencies.
- Monitor and audit special education programs for adherence to legal and ethical standards, addressing any non-compliance issues as necessary.
- Supervise and evaluate the performance of Student Services personnel, including speech pathologists, social workers, psychologists, and special education staff.
- Provide staff training and professional development opportunities to enhance their ability to support diverse student needs.
- Develop, manage, and oversee the Student Services budgets, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently and effectively in accordance with district mission.
- Serve as a liaison between the district, parents, community organizations, and external agencies to promote student success.
- Additional duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Education, Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field required
- Current and continuing endorsement in one area of special education is required.
- Director of Special Education Approval from the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) or eligibility to obtain it is required.
- Michigan Department of Education approval as a central office administrator or eligibility to obtain promptly is required.
- A minimum of five years of experience in special education, with experience in a leadership capacity, preferably in a public school setting
- Comprehensive knowledge of special education laws, regulations, and best practices
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
- Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams and collaborate with stakeholders
- Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in education
- Experience in program development and implementation in a K-12 setting
- Familiarity with data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement processes
- Proven track record of building partnerships with community organizations and internal stakeholders
