Education Program Director - $2,500 Sign-on Bonus!

ChanceLight Programs•Monroe, NC

11d

About The Position

ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education is seeking an Education Program Director for a special education program serving grades 6–8. The director is the instructional leader, responsible for championing high-quality instruction, student achievement, and continuous academic growth. The role oversees site operations and serves as the liaison between the site and designated school district contacts, developing and maintaining positive working relationships. The director leads and supports staff, ensures effective implementation of policies and procedures, and promotes a safe, supportive learning environment. The position also oversees student enrollment and transitions, instructional and behavioral practices, assessment and progress reporting, compliance, accreditation, facilities, schedules, services, budgets, and relationships with districts and the community.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher in education or a closely related field.
Currently licensed or in the process of obtaining a North Carolina exceptional children (EC) credential.
Ability to obtain and maintain certification in company-approved crisis management training.
At least five years of experience in special education services and compliance, particularly with students with learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, emotional behavioral disorders, and/or related disabilities.
At least three years of experience in school administration or educational leadership.
Comprehensive knowledge of school administration, operations, functions, and compliance requirements.
Knowledge of applied behavior analysis (ABA), positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS), effective teaching strategies, classroom management systems, data-based decision-making, functional behavior analysis (FBA), and behavior intervention plans (BIPs).
Experience working with students with individualized education plans (IEPs).
Ability to motivate students and have critical conversations that help them move toward realistic goals.
Strong skills in training, professional development, and/or coaching for teachers and education staff.
Ability to build and maintain relationships with students, parents, teachers, leaders, and community and/or district partners.
Advanced oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
Proficiency with relevant technology, including instructional technology, computers, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry, and basic office equipment.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or higher in education, special education, or a closely related field.
Current or in-progress North Carolina education administrator, school principal, or related credential.
School administration or educational leadership experience in an alternative, special education, and/or behavioral health program setting.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership to improve student achievement and ensure effective site operations.
Supervise staff, develop and implement performance management plans, identify professional learning needs, and pursue continuous professional growth.
Participate in staff recruitment and selection to build a team with the skills needed to serve the program’s students.
Analyze staff development needs, recognize achievements, address concerns, and maintain productive site operations.
Lead or delegate new-staff induction and training.
Monitor facilities and programs for student and staff safety, contractual and state compliance, staffing ratios, and crisis-protocol readiness.
Oversee daily school operations, schedules, activities, custodial and maintenance coordination, food and transportation services, administrative and budgetary processes, and resource allocation.
Build and maintain positive relationships with school districts and the community.
Maximize resources in partnership with the direct supervisor to support instructional priorities and student outcomes.
Participate in enrollment from referral through departure, including placement, site tours, roster management, and transition planning toward the least restrictive environment when applicable.
Instruct, monitor, and evaluate staff and students in the use of learning materials and resources to support instructional fidelity and student performance.
Observe, evaluate, and report staff and student performance using the START Checklist or other approved observation tools.
Participate in accreditation and quality assurance processes.
Prepare and present reports on student achievement, development, and activities.
Compile, analyze, and use assessment data to track growth, inform instruction, and guide academic interventions.
Maintain accurate and timely student progress records in accordance with state laws, ChanceLight guidelines, and district policies.
Ensure timely completion and distribution of grades, report cards, IEP progress reports, and transcripts.
Ensure compliance with mandatory requirements, including the IEP process, state assessments, and ChanceLight policies.
Promote positive school culture and appropriate student behavior using support or disciplinary measures consistent with ChanceLight policies.
Provide guidance, encouragement, and academic counseling to students facing challenges.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the program and its students.