Assistant Director of Special Education for Early Learning

Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9•Smethport, PA

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Special Education for Early Learning provides leadership, supervision, and management for IU9’s Preschool Early Intervention program serving children ages 3 to 5, and supervises the PA Pre-K Counts Coordinator. The role leads curriculum and instruction and supports high-quality programming through collaboration with families, member school districts, and community agencies. It oversees Preschool Early Intervention classrooms and itinerant staff across IU9’s service region of McKean, Potter, Elk, and Cameron Counties; regular travel within the region is required. The Assistant Director also leads early learning partnerships, including coordination with PA Pre-K Counts, Head Start, child care providers, private preschools, member districts’ kindergarten transition efforts, and other community partners. The position is a 12-month role reporting to the Director of Special Education, with a stated start date of mid-February 2027.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Education.
Active Pennsylvania Supervisor of Special Education certificate or Principal certificate.
At least five years of teaching experience in special education.
Current certification in CPR, First Aid, and an IU-approved crisis management methodology, or willingness to obtain these upon hire.
Ability to work effectively with other professionals and direct staff, and to organize and communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to respond and problem-solve quickly.
Knowledge of IDEA, Chapter 14, and Pennsylvania Early Intervention regulations.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel throughout the IU9 region.
Current Act 34, Act 151, and FBI (Act 114) clearances, and Act 168 compliance.

Nice To Haves

Experience in early childhood special education or Early Intervention.
Supervisory or leadership experience.

Responsibilities

Supervise, coordinate, and manage the Preschool Early Intervention program for children ages 3 to 5, including classroom and itinerant services.
Supervise and support the PA Pre-K Counts Coordinator and ensure compliance with OCDEL requirements.
Ensure compliance with IDEA, Pennsylvania Chapter 14, and Early Intervention regulations, including evaluation timelines, IEP development, and service delivery.
Assist with program budgets, staffing plans, and required state and federal reporting.
Serve as co-chairperson for two Early Learning Team/Local Interagency Coordinating Councils and participate in committees affecting early learning in the IU9 catchment area.
Supervise, observe, and evaluate assigned EI teachers, itinerant staff, paraprofessionals, and related service providers.
Participate in recruitment, interviewing, and hiring of early learning staff.
Plan and deliver professional development aligned with the PA Early Learning Standards and evidence-based early childhood practices.
Manage day-to-day operations, workflows, and staffing for early intervention or service coordination offices.
Use state data and tracking systems, such as PELICAN, for reporting, audits, and program evaluation.
Lead curriculum, instruction, assessment, and progress monitoring for preschool programs.
Promote inclusive practices and services in the least restrictive environment, including community early learning settings.
Build partnerships with families and involve them in planning and decision-making for their children.
Coordinate with Head Start, PA Pre-K Counts partners, child care providers, Infant/Toddler Early Intervention, private preschools, and community agencies.
Work with member school districts to support smooth transitions into kindergarten.
Respond to parent concerns and assist with resolving disputes and complaints.
Respond to and problem-solve urgent situations in classrooms and programs.
Perform other duties assigned by the Director of Special Education or Executive Director.