Special Education Department Head - Secondary

Danbury Public Schools District • Danbury, CT

186d • $6,000 - $12,000

About The Position

The Special Education Department Head for Secondary Schools is responsible for leading the Special Education department, ensuring the implementation of curriculum and best practices to achieve high levels of student achievement and instructional excellence. This position involves collaboration with the Supervisor of Special Education and building-based administration to provide professional development, coaching, and feedback aimed at improving instruction and student outcomes across the district. The role is a two academic year term, with incumbents eligible to reapply biennially.

Requirements

• Valid Connecticut Special Education teaching certification.
• Department Chair Certification (105) or Intermediate Supervisory Certification (092).
• Minimum of five years of successful teaching experience in Special Education with diverse learners.
• Experience mentoring new teachers.
• Demonstrated curriculum leadership and innovation.
• Proven ability to support interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate deep knowledge of Special Education practices, regulations, and standards-based instruction.
• Serve as a role model for professionalism, instructional excellence, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Lead and support change initiatives aligned with data, best practices, and district goals.
• Conduct department meetings to promote communication and alignment of goals.
• Support PLCs in developing common assessments, analyzing data, and planning responsive instruction.
• Collaborate with school teams to implement and monitor departmental goals.
• Facilitate professional learning to build staff capacity in Special Education compliance, instruction, and intervention.
• Participate in New Teacher Orientation and lead Special Education-specific curriculum sessions.
• Attend and contribute to four days of summer work for curriculum and resource development.
• Facilitate the consistent implementation of Special Education curriculum, assessments, and instructional practices.
• Collaborate to improve inclusive practices and ensure access to rigorous instruction for all students.
• Support the development and implementation of progress monitoring systems and data analysis protocols.
• Design and deliver professional development focused on research-based Special Education strategies.
• Engage in direct service to students for approximately two instructional periods per day.
• Mentor and coach both novice and experienced teachers to ensure high-quality instruction.
• Conduct formative observations and support professional growth through instructional coaching.
• Contribute to the development of instructional improvement plans aligned with district and student needs.
• Provide formative support to complement the summative evaluation process conducted by administrators.
• Participate in hiring processes for Special Education staff.
• Monitor and manage department resources including specialized equipment, supplies, and instructional materials.
• Coordinate with administrators and counselors on master schedules, course offerings, and student placements.
• Serve as a liaison between the Special Education department, district leadership, building administration, and staff.
• Maintain effective communication with families and community stakeholders.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Supervisor of Special Education.

Benefits

• Salary in accordance with the NEA-Danbury Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• Base stipend of $6,000 with an additional $1,000-$6,000 annually based on department size.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Master's degree