Director of Therapies & Related Services

IDEAL School of Manhattan•New York, NY

4h•Onsite

About The Position

The IDEAL School of Manhattan is an inclusion school dedicated to creating a diverse community that affirms and accepts the full identities of all people, while inspiring academic excellence, creative leadership, and a desire to build a more just and equitable world. IDEAL is seeking a strategic, compassionate, and highly organized Director of Therapies and Related Services to lead its multidisciplinary team of clinicians. This role will oversee the delivery, compliance, and quality of therapy services, including Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT), and other specialized related services. The mission is to ensure that every student/client receives high-quality, evidence-based interventions that support their functional and academic success. IDEAL expands the definition of diversity to include ability, and thus candidates must demonstrate the ability to work with a range of learners and to engage students’ curiosity through interdisciplinary activities, discussion, and project-based learning. All IDEAL faculty contribute in significant ways beyond the classroom or therapeutic space; it is expected that faculty members may lead their own extra-curricular activities and initiatives. They know their students as learners and as individuals, and they inspire their students by setting a high bar for excellence while supporting all learners in achieving. Occasionally, educators may be asked to chaperone day and overnight class trips. The successful incumbent will partner thoughtfully with colleagues and parents; demonstrate the ability to inspire students at all levels to strive for both personal and academic excellence; and possess a commitment to inclusive education.

Requirements

Master’s, or Doctorate in a therapy discipline (Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Speech-Language Pathology)
Generally, 3–5 years of clinical experience
Prior supervisory or management experience
Active state licensure in their respective therapeutic field
Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Nice To Haves

Independent school experience preferred
Familiarity with Universal Design for Learning
Appreciation for the school’s mission
A strong understanding of differentiation
The ability to collaborate as part of a team
A desire to make a difference in the school--to contribute time and talent outside of the classroom to the growth of students and the school

Responsibilities

Promote clear directives for therapeutic services that align with the school’s mission and inclusive philosophy.
Provide direct supervision, mentorship, and performance evaluations for all therapeutic faculty.
Promote and model inclusive practices by supporting the integration of therapeutic services within classroom settings and across the school day.
Develop and monitor key performance indicators for therapy services; regularly report on student outcomes, program effectiveness, and areas for growth.
Coordinate and lead multidisciplinary responses for complex or high-need student situations, ensuring cohesive and timely support.
Support transition planning for students, including collaboration around post-secondary readiness, independence, and life skills.
Coach and support therapeutic staff in partnering with families by providing guidance and resources that promote carryover of strategies at home.
Support the IEP process by preparing for, facilitating, and actively contributing to meetings, while ensuring alignment across team members and with family priorities.
Identify professional development needs and facilitate training on current best practices and assistive technologies.
Ensure all services comply with IDEAL and legal mandates under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Oversee the management of caseloads and assignments to ensure equitable distribution of services.
Oversee and maintain awareness of collaboration between therapeutic staff and external healthcare providers or community agencies, providing guidance and support as needed to ensure coordinated, student-centered care.
Manage the department budget, including the procurement of therapeutic equipment and specialized testing materials.
Lead recruitment efforts for high-demand therapy roles and manage relationships with external staffing agencies.
Perform other related duties as assigned to support the efficient operation of the school.