Director of Special Education

Position Type:
Administration - District Level Special Education

Date Posted:
2/10/2025

Location:
District Office, Round Lake, IL

Date Available:
07/01/2025
SUMMARY:

The Director of Special Education is a visionary leader dedicated to ensuring high-quality, inclusive special education services that support student success while maintaining full compliance with district, state, and federal regulations. The Director will lead program development, staff training, and strategic initiatives to enhance student outcomes, ensuring services align with best practices and legal requirements. They must be an effective communicator, problem solver, and advocate, fostering collaboration between educators, families, and external agencies. Additionally, they will oversee budget management, data-driven decision-making, and continuous program improvement, ensuring equitable access to resources that empower students with disabilities to thrive.

SALARY RANGE:
$120,000 - $150,000

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

General Experience and Education

• Minimum of three (3) years of professional level experience working in an educational setting.
• Master's degree in educational administration, educational leadership or special education.
• 3 years of special education administration preferred.

Credentials

• Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with a General Administrative endorsement
• Evaluation Qualifications for Teacher Evaluator (Principal Evaluator also preferred)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong oral and written communication skills, including public speaking and the ability to present information effectively.
• Extensive knowledge of federal and state laws, regulations, and policies related to special education.
• Proficiency in program management, curriculum development, and instructional practices for PK-12 education.
• Expertise in Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Response to Intervention (RtI).
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and data-driven decision-making skills.
• Ability to apply research and educational theory to improve programs and student outcomes.
• Proficiency in administrative leadership, policy development, and program evaluation.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills to foster collaboration among educators, families, and community partners.
• Ability to interpret and communicate statistical data to inform decision-making.
• Competency in using office technology, computers, and software for program management and reporting.
• Ability to multitask, handle high-pressure situations, and maintain professionalism.
• Strong conflict resolution, adaptability, and independent decision-making skills.
• Supervisory and leadership abilities to guide and evaluate staff effectively.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in special education.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The following identifies the primary and essential functions of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive listing of all duties. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Leads and manages special education programs, out-of-district placements, and student support services (psychological, guidance, and social casework).
• Oversees curriculum development, implementation, and assessment for special education.
• Evaluates and improves special education programs based on research and data analysis.
• Manages budgets, grants, and financial planning for special education services.
• Ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, including Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and student record-keeping policies.
• Develops and supervises referral, assessment, and placement processes for special education students.
• Provides professional development for special education staff and administrators.
• Supervises and evaluates special education personnel and programs.
• Collaborates with parents, community agencies, and stakeholders to enhance program effectiveness.
• Represents the district in special education initiatives, inter-agency collaborations, and community meetings.
• Implements and monitors strategic initiatives to support inclusive education practices.
• Attends Board meetings, prepares reports, and advises the Superintendent.
• Participates in hiring and recruitment of special education personnel.
• Establishes and maintains effective administrative procedures.
• Engages in continuous professional development and research to enhance program effectiveness.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

POSITION SUPERVISES:

• Supervises, evaluates and leads special education coordinators, certified and non-certified staff within the special education department.