Executive Director of Special Services, 2027-28

Columbia•Columbia, MO

About The Position

Columbia Public School District’s Executive Director of Special Services provides district-wide programmatic and administrative leadership for PreK–12 special services, including special education, Section 504 services, and gifted education. The position guides services that support students and families and promote integration of education and related services within school buildings according to student needs. It calls for a strategic leader who balances instructional practices with individualized student needs and complex regulatory compliance requirements. The Executive Director leads instructional improvement, assessment and programming, curriculum development, staff training, compliance, family and community partnerships, and district responses to complaints and due process matters. The role manages special services operational and financial resources, including a budget of more than $38.5 million, and provides programmatic leadership for more than 550 employees. The position reports to the Chief Academic Officer and supervises special education, Section 504, and gifted education personnel, while supporting building administrators in supervising special services staff.

Requirements

Master’s degree in special education or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience supervising or leading one or more areas of special education or specialized programs.
Missouri Special Education Administration certification.
Ability to perform the essential duties satisfactorily, with reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.
Ability to present information to teachers, staff, administrators, and boards; respond to questions and concerns; interview students and staff; interpret professional materials and statutes; and write business correspondence.
Strong interpersonal and non-verbal communication skills, and ability to maintain confidentiality when required.
Ability to analyze data and apply mathematical concepts, including probability, statistical inference, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions.
Ability to use word-processing and spreadsheet software, conduct internet research, and access and create reports using student information software and databases.
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, draw conclusions, solve varied problems, and interpret written, oral, diagram, or schedule-based instructions.
Executive functioning skills including planning, organizing, remembering, and regulating information and behavior as they relate to student performance and achievement.
Ability to use presentation media and instructional technology, including smart boards and projectors, and follow district technology policies.
Ability to perform sedentary work, stand or walk briefly, exert up to 10 pounds of force regularly, and operate office equipment with considerable dexterity.
Consistent and regular attendance, including attendance at Board meetings, student activities, and events.
Ability to work irregular or extended hours; weekend or evening hours are common.

Nice To Haves

Doctorate degree.
Successful experience demonstrating effective interpersonal skills and the ability to lead conflict resolution in critical situations.
Solid understanding of special education systems, child development, laws and regulations affecting the special needs population, local school organization, and community resources.

Responsibilities

Lead, develop, and inspire a shared vision for instructional improvement in special education and special services throughout the district.
Develop, implement, and evaluate assessment programs for students with special learning circumstances.
Ensure appropriate child-find, screening, assessment, and programming for students with disabilities, medical needs, or crisis situations.
Lead the development, dissemination, and monitoring of curriculum for students with special needs, including homebound instruction.
Analyze data and establish strategic improvements for student progress, attendance, and discipline in special services programs.
Establish processes for maintaining student records and protecting their confidentiality.
Oversee and deliver staff development for district educators and administrators on research-based curricula, programs, processes, and procedures.
Communicate with district program coordinators and school administrators to ensure special and related services support district and school goals.
Ensure understanding of and compliance with state and federal regulations, and develop compliant policies and procedures, including those related to IDEA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Respond to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education regarding grant paperwork, assurances, and funding.
Work with district and school administrators to support compliance with special services policies and procedures.
Promote communication and partnerships that support understanding of mental health issues, emerging special education needs, and other educational needs.
Collaborate with community agencies and organizations to provide wrap-around care.
Provide assistance and information to families of students with special needs and participate in local boards and advisory groups.
Keep district administration informed about emerging local, regional, and national issues and trends.
Manage special services financial and operational resources, including a budget exceeding $38.5 million in state, federal, and grant funding, personnel costs, and operating costs.
Develop grant proposals and complete amendments, forms, and reports; monitor expenditures and arrange collection of program-related monies.
Oversee billing for out-of-district students attending Columbia Public Schools and reimbursement to districts for Columbia students placed elsewhere by mental health, social services, juvenile office, or courts.
Determine technology, space, and material needs for special services programs and ensure appropriate transportation for students with special needs.
Recruit, attract, develop, and retain qualified staff and foster a collaborative environment focused on student success, inclusivity, and growth.
Provide programmatic leadership for more than 550 employees, including directors, coordinators, learning specialists, paraprofessionals, educational diagnosticians, therapists, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and social workers.
Interview candidates, recommend hiring, evaluate personnel in collaboration with district and school administrators, and manage staffing plans to meet student needs.
Prepare or direct district responses to IDEA complaints, child complaints, OCR complaints, and due process matters.
Stay informed about trends and issues related to students with special needs, medical concerns, or crisis situations, and consult legal counsel as appropriate.
Perform other duties as necessary to support the district’s mission and vision.