Director of Student Services

Canton Public Schools • Canton, MA

1d • $150,000 - $170,000

About The Position

The Canton Public Schools is seeking an exceptional and dynamic candidate to serve as the Director of Student Services for the upcoming school year beginning in July 2026. The Director of Student Services will join a vibrant and supportive team that places a high priority on collaboration, creativity, flexibility, and commitment to the goals of the District and to our students, families and staff. Canton Public Schools is seeking a visionary and dedicated Director of Student Services to lead our comprehensive special education and student support programs. The successful candidate will be a champion for equity, ensuring that every student has the opportunities and resources necessary to meet their full potential. This role requires a sophisticated blend of legal expertise, fiscal responsibility, and compassionate leadership to serve our "at-risk" populations and students with specialized learning needs. The Canton Public Schools are an inclusive community for all students and staff and serve over 3,100 students in grades PreK-12 and our 18-22 programming. The Canton Public Schools are elevating the educational experience for our students by cultivating a school culture and climate that promotes academic growth and social emotional learning for every student, and ensures high quality teaching and learning through the purposeful design of rigorous and equitable student experiences. We are eager to find the next member of our team who collaborates with other educators to create the conditions necessary so that every child experiences the true joy of learning, the excitement of achievement, areas of passion, and an authentic sense of belonging in their school. JOB SUMMARY The Director of Student Services is responsible for the comprehensive oversight, development, and administration of the District’s Special Education programs and support services. Reporting directly to the Superintendent, the Director ensures that all students—particularly those identified as "at-risk" or requiring specialized instruction—have equitable access to high-quality educational opportunities. This role balances regulatory compliance with instructional leadership , requiring a deep expertise in state and federal special education laws and the ability to translate those mandates into effective, student-centered programming.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree in an appropriate field
• Massachusetts Certification as an Administrator of Special Education
• Experience supervising Special Education programs
• Five (5) years administrative and supervisory experience (including budget preparation and fiscal management)
• Ability to work as a member of a highly functioning team
• A proven ability to relate to a variety of constituencies, including but not limited to, administrators, parents, teachers, school committee members, other school staff, human service and governmental agencies.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Well-organized with excellent leadership abilities
• Exceptional interpersonal and presentation skills
• Working knowledge of relevant technologies: internet and email systems; word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet software; and educational software
• Employment-based on successful completion of CORI and fingerprinting background
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the school department may find appropriate and acceptable

Responsibilities

• Programmatic Leadership & Compliance: Monitors the identification of eligible students and ensures that all services are delivered in strict accordance with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The Director serves as the primary authority on special education law and district policy.
• Fiscal & Resource Management: Administers the annual budget for Special Education and MLL services. This involves managing Circuit Breaker reimbursements, federal grants, Medicaid claims, and contracts for specialized transportation and independent evaluations. This includes securing revenue through state and federal grants, overseeing specialized transportation logistics, and ensuring the efficient use of resources.
• Personnel Development: Directs a comprehensive leadership team, including Assistant Director, Team Chairs, the Nurse Leader, and Related Service Providers. Recruits, trains, and supervises specialized student services staff. In collaboration with the Superintendent and Principals, the Director designs professional development initiatives for teachers, paraprofessionals, and other student services staff to foster an inclusive learning environment.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Acts as a vital bridge between the District and the community. This involves leading the Canton Advisory Council for Student Services (CPACSS), collaborating with community and state networks, and serving as the District Liaison for external placements.
• Data Administration: Oversees the collection and reporting of critical compliance data for the Department of Education, ensuring that all District practices meet rigorous state standards.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director