Special Education School Principal

Specialized Education Services•Lexington, KY

18h

About The Position

The Special Education School Principal leads a school serving students who need academic, emotional, social, and behavioral support. The role advances student learning and well-being through individualized services and support, use of SESI instructional models and curriculum, and implementation of behavior-management approaches. The principal supports teachers, monitors student growth, ensures instruction aligns with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and builds relationships with parents, district officials, and other stakeholders. The position also oversees school operations, including budgeting and financial reporting, enrollment, records, human resources processes, staff development, facilities coordination, and operational improvement. The principal organizes IEP meetings, maintains special education documentation, and leads development and implementation of school-wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).

Requirements

Master’s degree in Education, Special Education, Social or Behavior Sciences, or a related field.
Ability to run short distances and move swiftly in response to student needs, including bending, kneeling, and crouching.
Ability to lift and assist students with mobility challenges, often handling up to 50 pounds or more.
Skill in fine motor tasks, such as helping students with writing, manipulating small objects, or using adaptive devices.
Ability to operate a computer or tablet for up to 8 hours daily.
Capacity to notice and respond to students’ non-verbal cues.
Capacity to remain calm and composed during physically and emotionally demanding situations to ensure student safety and well-being.

Nice To Haves

Administration credential.
Extensive experience working with students with disabilities.

Responsibilities

Ensure academic policies and curriculum are followed.
Develop and track benchmarks for measuring institutional success.
Help teachers maximize their teaching potential.
Meet with students regularly and listen to their concerns.
Encourage, guide, and assist student leaders and teachers.
Meet regularly with parents and administrators to resolve problems.
Enforce discipline when necessary.
Provide an atmosphere free of bias in which students can achieve their maximum potential.
Teach knowledge and skills, nurture confidence and character, and meet students’ needs using SESI instructional models, strategies, and curriculum.
Use the school’s behavior-management and intervention strategies, including de-escalation, crisis management, and PBIS strategies.
Drive, record, and track student growth and progress toward academic, social, and emotional goals.
Ensure students are educated in accordance with their IEPs.
Observe classrooms formally and informally, using observation forms to provide appropriate staff feedback.
Attend and participate in regional activities, including weekly Director’s Meetings.
Attend monthly Goal Reviews with the Supervisor and demonstrate consistent growth and goal completion.
Forge and maintain relationships with stakeholders, including district officials and parents.
Maintain financial, state licensing, student, and employee records.
Develop, monitor, and maintain the school’s budget in accordance with financial guidelines.
Analyze profit and loss statements, identify areas for improvement, and propose cost-reduction and revenue-enhancement strategies.
Collaborate with the finance department on financial reports and forecasts and provide regular updates to school administration.
Assist in creating and enforcing HR policies and procedures and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
Support staff professional development by identifying training needs and organizing relevant workshops or programs.
Manage enrollment processes, including admissions, transfers, and withdrawals.
Coordinate daily school operations and communication among departments.
Collaborate with facilities management on maintenance and infrastructure needs.
Implement systems and procedures to improve school efficiency and effectiveness.
Organize and facilitate IEP meetings with teachers, parents, and relevant stakeholders.
Maintain accurate documentation of special education services, progress reports, and related records.
Stay current with special education research and best practices and ensure evidence-based strategies are implemented.
Lead the development and implementation of a school-wide PBIS program.
Guide and support teachers in implementing PBIS practices.
Perform other duties as assigned.