Special Education School Principal - Pathfinder School

Allegheny Intermediate Unit•Bethel Park, PA

About The Position

The Special Education School Principal manages school-based personnel and programs at Pathfinder School. The role oversees staffing, student IEP processes, academic and student-support programming, staff training, building budgets, school safety and security, supplies and equipment, stakeholder relationships, and contracted services. The Principal represents school-based concerns to the Joint Board Special School Committee and performs other duties assigned by administration in support of school-based programs. The position requires a Principal K–12 Certification. Special Education and/or School Psychology certification and experience in special education are preferred. The role reports to the Assistant Executive Director of Special Education and Pupil Services, is scheduled for 260 days, and is classified at Salary Grade 17. Benefits are listed as Act 93.

Requirements

Principal K–12 Certification.
Knowledge of special education law.
Strong leadership skills.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work independently and cooperatively, and to be flexible, creative, and responsible.
Ability and experience working as a member of a team.
Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and work under pressure with limited supervision.
Skill using Microsoft Office Suite, student information systems, and other electronic databases and dashboards.
Ability to comply with AIU policies and Pennsylvania’s Code of Professional Practice and Conduct for Educators.
Current Act 114, Act 34, Act 151, and NSOR clearances dated no more than one year from the hire date.
Completed School Personnel Health Record (Form H511.340 (8/2011)) received by Human Resources before the hire date.
Ability to lift or carry up to 25 pounds, bend or twist at the neck and back, use peripheral and close vision, and stand for extended periods throughout the day.

Nice To Haves

Certification in Special Education and/or School Psychology.
Experience working in special education, including understanding student services and progress monitoring.
Experience supervising and evaluating professional and non-professional staff.

Responsibilities

Manage school-based staffing, including onboarding, assigning, supervising, and evaluating personnel, in accordance with AIU processes and applicable collective bargaining agreements.
Coordinate and participate in students’ IEP processes with special education liaisons from sending districts and schools, ensuring required educational services are provided.
Implement, supervise, and maintain academic, social, emotional, and behavioral programs responsive to students’ needs and interests.
Monitor learner progress, achievement data, and research-based educational practices.
Ensure staff can access training and in-service activities aligned with program needs and priorities.
Participate in the development and oversight of building-based budgets with agency fiscal personnel and in accordance with AIU policies.
Represent school-based concerns and interests at Joint Board Special School Committee meetings by providing updates, data, and action items.
Oversee school safety and security by implementing trainings, drills, and protocols consistent with procedures, policies, and regulations.
Maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment in accordance with AIU procurement procedures and policies.
Develop and maintain relationships with stakeholder groups, including parents and guardians, school advisory committees, local liaisons, community-based social service agencies, and local law enforcement.
Work with contracted providers, such as transportation, nutrition, and staffing agencies, to support efficient program operations.
Perform other duties assigned by administration in support of school-based programs.