Associate Director of Special Education

Waterloo Community School District•Waterloo, IA

19h•Onsite

About The Position

This position is responsible for supporting the Director of Special Education with the efficient and effective operation of PK-12 special education services of the district by providing leadership in the planning, coordination, and implementation of a comprehensive plan for special education. This position requires the use of independent judgment, self-initiation, and diverse leadership strategies. The essential functions, as shown below, only represent key areas of responsibility.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Education, Ed Leadership, or an applicable area related to the scope of responsibility
Special Education endorsement, preferred
Iowa Professional Administrator license with PK-12 Principal and/or PK-12 Supervisor of Special Education endorsement(s).
Evaluator license
Five (5) years of successful teaching experience (in special education field preferred)
Three (3) years of successful administrative/leadership experience (in the special education field preferred)
Experience with a range of instructional delivery systems and inclusionary services required
Advanced knowledge of state and federal laws and rules governing special education and behavior plans
Experience and knowledge of multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) and problem-solving practices
Experience and knowledge of MANDT and other crisis prevention/de-escalation systems
Knowledge of billing (tuition in/tuition out/residential, Medicaid)
Knowledge of transportation regulations as it relates to special education
Effective oral and written communication skills
Strong problem-solving skills
Knowledge of related research and quality practices
Ability to organize varied responsibilities and meet deadlines
Ability to work collaboratively with district personnel, committees, and community agencies
Ability to work collaboratively with teacher teams and instructional coaches
Knowledge of processes and procedures to address effective implementation of the least restrictive environment requirements, including implementation of the district’s district-developed service delivery plan.
Ability to work effectively, cooperatively, and respectfully with staff, parents, students, and community members regardless of race, creed, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic/national origin, religion, marital status, age, socio-economic status, or disability
Ability to recognize sensitive issues and maintain confidentiality
Ability to handle adversity in an objective manner
Demonstrated record of commitment and sensitivity to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and human rights
Ability to develop, manage, and monitor program budgets
Knowledge of processes to address cultural diversity and associated issues related to student performance and instructional methodology
Basic computer skills (computer navigation, email, web browser, Employee Portal)
Intermediate computer skills (Google Suites, search function, student information systems, basic Promethean)
High computer skills (familiarity with Education Tech Tools, Information Systems specific to the position)
Ability to reach all skill levels listed if not already acquired
Behavior Support Specialists
Special Education Instructional Coaches
All district personnel
Parents, students, and community members
Area Education Agency personnel
Professional associations and agencies
Advisory and district committee members
State and national education agencies

Nice To Haves

Additional graduate work related to the scope of responsibility is highly desired

Responsibilities

Supports and assists the Director of Special Education in Directing district special education services
Directing district behavior supports
Directing secondary and post-secondary transition programs
Directing district instructional strategists and support staff (in collaboration with building leadership)
Provides leadership and coordination of special education transition services of the district.
Assists in an annual review of Central Rivers AEA support services and recommends changes as needed.
Supports the implementation of department and building improvement plans.
Works closely with Human Resources to support hiring and other personnel decisions.
Assists in the maintenance, analysis, recommendations, and implementation of effective special education practices based on student data.
Coordinates the evaluation of needs, arrangements, and provision of professional development in the area of special education services.
Coordinates the purchase of materials and equipment for special education classrooms.
Supports compliance of state and federal laws and rules governing special education.
Provides leadership, supervision, and coordination of transition services.
Communicates with parents and the community on matters relating to special education services.
Supports oversight of state reporting as it relates to Special Education (BEDS, Child Count, LEA FTE, Alternate Assessments (DLM & ELAA).
Support at the LEA & AEA level of IEP needs/meetings (when legal counsel is needed, challenging parent/family situations, etc).
Ensures that all special education staff are compliant with required training.
Assists school administrators in understanding and properly enforcing district policies and regulations related to special education.
Provides leadership, professional learning, and coaching to the Special Education Instructional Coaches.
Expands and monitors the effective implementation of problem-solving practices and procedures.
Coordinates the developing, writing, and filing of required reports.
Evaluates designated personnel.
Keeps current on research and best practices in the field.
Coordinates with the Teaching and Learning Department on the development and implementation of curriculum and instructional practices that fully consider students' unique needs.
Adheres to high ethical standards and demonstrates professionalism when acting as an agent of the district.
Maintains professional growth through graduate work, professional organizations, seminars, conferences and/or related professional literature.
Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Education.