Special Education School Principal

Specialized Education Services•Phoenix, AZ

About The Position

The Special Education School Principal leads school operations and supports the academic, behavioral, social, and emotional development of students with disabilities. The role ensures that academic policies, curriculum, and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) are implemented, and that students receive individualized services using SESI instructional models, strategies, and curriculum. The principal monitors student progress, supports teachers, maintains relationships with parents and district officials, and helps create an inclusive, bias-free environment where students can reach their potential. The position also oversees school administration, including budgeting, financial reporting, records, enrollment, human resources support, professional development, facilities coordination, and daily operations. The principal organizes IEP meetings, maintains special education documentation, stays current on evidence-based practices, and leads development and implementation of a school-wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program. The role includes regular classroom observations, participation in regional activities and meetings, and monthly goal reviews with a supervisor. Other duties may be assigned.

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 50 pounds or more.
Skill in managing 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 preferred.
Extensive experience with students with disabilities strongly preferred.

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 and nurture students’ confidence and character using SESI instructional models, strategies, and curriculum.
Use school 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.
Conduct regular formal and informal classroom observations and 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.
Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders, including district officials and parents.
Maintain financial, state licensing, student, and employee records.
Develop, monitor, and maintain the school budget and ensure adherence to 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 applicable laws and regulations.
Support staff professional development by identifying training needs and organizing relevant workshops or programs.
Manage student admissions, transfers, and withdrawals.
Coordinate daily school operations and communication among departments.
Work with facilities management to address 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 updated on special education best practices and research and implement evidence-based strategies.
Lead the development and implementation of a school-wide PBIS program.
Guide and support teachers in implementing PBIS practices.
Perform other duties as assigned.