Special Education Attorney (SY26-27)
About The Position
Boston Public Schools (BPS) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Special Education Attorney to provide legal counsel and representation on special education law, policy, and compliance. The attorney advises BPS administrators, departments, educators, and staff on matters including student rights, eligibility, evaluations, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and plans, Section 504 programs and plans, disciplinary actions, and due process procedures. The role represents BPS in meetings, administrative hearings, mediations, and judicial proceedings related to special education, and supports the Problem Resolution System Team in responding to complaints filed with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The attorney keeps abreast of developments in special education law and policy and leads internal policy updates, training, and implementation. The position also supports BPS personnel with investigations concerning Title IX, bias-based conduct, and related matters; conducts legal research; and drafts documents such as settlement agreements, legal memoranda, and hearing briefs. The attorney collaborates with other attorneys, outside counsel, administrators, educators, families, and community partners to support high-quality special education services. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned. The position reports to the BPS Legal Advisor.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
- Licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with no disciplinary record.
- At least 3 years of experience practicing special education law; experience in a Massachusetts school district or similar setting is preferred.
- Strong knowledge of federal and state special education laws, regulations, and case law.
- Excellent legal research, writing, and advocacy skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
- Accuracy and attention to detail.
- Highly motivated self-starter.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion in education.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working in or with educational institutions, school districts, or governmental agencies.
- Fluency in a language other than English.
- Proficiency with Google Suite, Microsoft Office, Westlaw, and Social Law Library.
Responsibilities
- Advise BPS administrators, departments, educators, and staff on special education matters, including student rights, eligibility, evaluations, IEPs and plans, Section 504 programs and plans, disciplinary actions, and due process procedures.
- Represent BPS in meetings, administrative hearings, mediations, and judicial proceedings related to special education.
- Support the BPS Problem Resolution System Team in responding to complaints filed with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
- Monitor changes in special education law and policy and lead internal BPS policy updates, training, and implementation.
- Support BPS personnel in responding to and conducting investigations concerning Title IX, bias-based conduct, and related matters.
- Conduct legal research and draft legal documents, including settlement agreements, legal memoranda, and hearing briefs.
- Collaborate with attorneys, outside counsel, administrators, educators, families, and community partners to support high-quality special education services.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
