Special Education School Principal - Pathfinder School

Allegheny Intermediate Unit•Bethel Park, PA

About The Position

The Special Education School Principal manages school-based personnel, coordinates student IEP processes with sending districts and schools, and oversees academic, social, emotional, and behavioral programs. The principal monitors student progress and achievement data and promotes research-based educational practices. The role supports staff training, participates in building budget development and oversight, represents school-based interests at Joint Board Special School Committee meetings, and oversees school safety and security. The principal maintains an inventory of supplies and equipment, builds relationships with parents and guardians, advisory committees, local liaisons, community social service agencies, and law enforcement, and works with contracted providers such as transportation, nutrition, and staffing agencies. Other duties may be assigned in support of school-based programs. The position is scheduled for 260 days and reports to the Assistant Executive Director of Special Education and Pupil Services.

Requirements

Principal K-12 Certification is required.
Knowledge of special education law.
Evidence of strong leadership skills.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Be self-motivated, independent, cooperative, flexible, creative, and responsible.
Ability and experience working as a team member.
Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and work under pressure with limited supervision.
Skilled in 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.
School Personnel Health Record (Form H511.340 (8/2011)) must be completed and received by Human Resources before the hire date.

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 matters, including onboarding, assigning, supervising, and evaluating personnel in accordance with AIU processes and applicable collective bargaining agreements.
Coordinate and participate in students’ Individualized Education Program (IEP) processes with special education liaisons from sending districts and schools.
Implement, supervise, and maintain academic, social, emotional, and behavioral programs; monitor student progress, achievement data, and research-based practices.
Ensure staff have access to training and in-service activities aligned with program needs and priorities.
Participate in the development and oversight of building-based budgets 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 safety-related training, drills, and protocols.
Maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment in accordance with AIU procurement procedures and policies.
Develop and maintain relationships with stakeholder groups, solicit input, clarify problems, advocate for programs, and advance program modifications.
Coordinate with contracted providers, including transportation, nutrition, and staffing agencies, to address services needed for efficient program operations.
Perform other duties as assigned by administration in support of school-based programs.