Director of Specialized Curriculum and Instruction

Springfield Public Schools•Springfield, MA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Specialized Curriculum and Instruction for Exceptional Learning oversees the development, implementation, and assessment of curriculum and instructional methods for PreK through grade 12 students with exceptional learning needs with an Individual Educational Program (IEP). The director ensures adherence to state and federal regulations, supports educators and staff, and promotes ongoing improvements in educational outcomes for these learners. They provide leadership and expertise to support, enhance, monitor, and ensure the use of high-quality instructional materials for exceptional learners within Springfield Public Schools. They lead staff in adopting research-based, effective teaching practices and creating quality learning environments that boost student achievement. Additionally, the director offers school administration research-backed tools and insights to evaluate instruction, language, and practices of early childhood staff and programs, aiming to improve language and literacy development. They assist leadership teams in building capacity to maintain consistent instructional practices and language across preschool, kindergarten, and grades one through three.

Requirements

Master’s degree (or higher) in Special Education, Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, or a related field
Valid Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) administrative license, such as Supervisor/Director or Principal/Assistant Principal, and appropriate Special Education licensure.
Minimum 5 years of successful teaching experience in special education or a related field
Minimum 3 years of administrative, supervisory, or curriculum leadership experience, preferably in special education
Demonstrated knowledge of state and federal special education laws, regulations, and compliance (IDEA, Section 504, MA regulations)
Proven experience in curriculum development, instructional design, and program evaluation within special education
Experience with data-driven decision making, assessment, and progress monitoring for students with disabilities.
Strong understanding of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and inclusive practices
Excellent leadership, communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills
Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion for all students

Nice To Haves

Doctorate in Education, Special Education, or a related field
Experience with Springfield Public Schools or similar urban school districts
Knowledge of current trends and research in exceptional learning and best practices for supporting diverse learners
Experience supervising and evaluating personnel in accordance with the MA Educator Evaluation System

Responsibilities

Lead the design, development, and alignment of specialized instructional programs, curriculum, and assessment for exceptional learners, ensuring alignment with Massachusetts frameworks and IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).
Evaluate and recommend curricula, instructional materials, and resources that reflect evidence-based practices to support the learning needs of exceptional learners.
Oversee curriculum review cycles and coordinate adoption of new instructional materials.
Provide leadership and professional development opportunities for teachers, instructional coaches, and support staff working with exceptional learners.
Mentor and support educators in implementing differentiated instruction, multi-tiered systems of support, and inclusive classroom practices.
Organize ongoing training on IEP (Individualized Education Program) development and implementation, data-driven instruction, and progress monitoring.
Oversee the development, maintenance, and monitoring of IEPs and related documentation using data collected through use of high-quality instructional materials within the classroom.
Prepare and submit required reports to state and federal agencies.
Collect and analyze student achievement data to evaluate program effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
Implement strategies for closing achievement gaps and improving educational outcomes for exceptional learners.
Serve as a liaison between the Exceptional Learning Department, Academics and other district departments, school administrators, families, and community agencies.
Facilitate communication and collaboration among teachers, specialists, and families.
Assist in budget development and resource allocation for exceptional learning programs.
Supervise and evaluate instructional coaches and other staff supporting exceptional learning staff as needed.
Participate in the recruitment, hiring, and retention of high-quality staff.
Regularly review the implementation and effectiveness of specialized curriculums within exceptional learning programs.
Foster a culture of continuous professional growth and high expectations.
Perform any other related duties assigned by the Chief of Exceptional Learning & Related Services.