Dean of Instruction (DOI)/ Special Education Coordinator

Southgate Academy•Tucson, AZ

About The Position

The Dean of Instruction (DOI) is responsible for inspiring instructors to excel and motivating students to achieve their highest potential. This role provides instructional and administrative leadership, overseeing curriculum, assessments, and student academic performance. The DOI values feedback, professional growth, and excellence, supporting instructors in improving their skills and fostering thriving classroom environments. They also engage with parents, the community, and stakeholders to promote the school's mission. Strong leadership, educational expertise, and the ability to support instructional staff are essential. The K-12 School Special Education Coordinator oversees the comprehensive special education program, managing case management for all special education students, coordinating educational assistant schedules, and ensuring the smooth operation and continuous improvement of the program. This role is critical in ensuring special education students receive the necessary support and services to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, requiring a dedicated and knowledgeable professional committed to promoting equity, inclusion, and excellence in education for all students.

Requirements

Bachelors and at least 3 years of teaching experience preferably in urban setting/SPED Certification
Active Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) issued IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card.
Demonstrated success using data to drive instruction, with a strong understanding of how students learn and can design instructional practices to effectively support their development.
Experience coaching teachers preferred
The ability to create a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported, and challenged.
Passion and commitment to closing the achievement gap in underserved schools.
Relentless drive to set and achieve ambitious goals.
Strong collaboration and teamwork skills.
Growth mindset and ability to use feedback to improve practice.
Experience teaching in underserved areas a plus.
Time management skills a must.
Previous experience working in special education, including experience with case management and IEP development.
Strong knowledge of special education laws, regulations, and best practices.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders and work as part of a team.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Experience with data management and analysis preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a school-wide vision for teaching and learning, aligning with district and state goals.
Support and guide instructors in creating effective lesson plans, implementing best practices, and using data to inform instruction.
Assist the CAA in hiring, evaluating, and professional development of instructors.
Manage scheduling and day-to-day operations, ensuring a safe and functional environment.
Collaborate with Dean of Discipline on student behavioral issues and provide support for students with special needs.
Build relationships with parents, community members, and other stakeholders to promote the school's mission.
Ensure compliance with state and federal education regulations, as well as district policies.
Communicating with external community groups, universities, and parents to promote programs.
Providing individualized and group coaching to instructors, often through classroom observations, feedback, and collaborative planning.
Developing and delivering professional development opportunities for instructors, focusing on best practices, data analysis, and new instructional strategies.
Supporting instructors in analyzing student data to inform instruction and identify areas for improvement.
Fostering a collaborative school environment and communicating effectively with Instructors, CAA, and other stakeholders.
Demonstrating effective teaching practices and classroom management techniques.
Observe, coach and mentor instructional staff to ensure that teaching is engaging, and rigorous, and that teachers are creating a warm, structured, and responsive classroom culture.
Support the lesson planning process and provide weekly feedback to teachers on their lessons.
Identify challenges in academic performance and recommend and implement solutions in a timely manner.
Build smooth and efficient working relations that positively impact academics; work closely and efficiently with the CAA to ensure student success.
Establish rapport with students; communicate individual academic progress.
Observing and providing feedback on classroom instruction.
Develop and implement coaching plans.
Facilitate professional development workshops and meetings.
Providing guidance on classroom management and student engagement.
Staying current on research-based instructional strategies.
Supporting teachers in using technology to enhance teaching and learning.
Assisting in the development and implementation of school-wide initiatives.
Oversee the development and implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students with disabilities, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
Oversee the delivery of a range of special education services, including testing, speech/language pathology, physical and occupational therapy, and special transportation.
Plan, design, and conduct training for teachers and staff on special education best practices.
Maintain accurate student records, prepare reports for regulatory agencies, and ensure compliance with state and federal laws.
Use data to assess student progress, identify areas for program improvement, and develop training plans.
Work collaboratively with general education teachers, parents, and other stakeholders to ensure students' needs are met.
Coordinate the allocation of resources, including personnel, materials, and technology, to support special education programs.
Stay current with changes in special education laws and regulations and ensure compliance within the district.
All other duties & responsibilities as assigned by CAA.