Director of Student Services (ESE)

About the Role

The Student Services Director represents and advocates for the student body, supervises student services staff, assists with managing the department budget, ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, and handles logistics for student activities and events. This role requires a deep understanding of and commitment to classical education and the vision, mission, and philosophy of Naples Classical Academy.

Responsibilities

• Support the facilitation of an inclusive model for student services based on best practices, NCA’s philosophy, and the needs of all students.
• Direct the planning, development, organization, management, and implementation of all aspects of Student Services, including special education, student discipline, social-emotional programming, grant-funded programs, MTSS, and Section 504.
• Ensure compliance with all laws, codes, and regulations related to Student Services.
• Evaluate assigned personnel and collaborate with administrative and professional staff to meet instructional goals.
• Oversee the District’s implementation of Non-Violent Crisis Intervention programming and training for department staff.
• Oversee the Hospital and Homebound program and the implementation of special education services in compliance with state and federal laws.
• Conduct training for staff on academic instruction, special education services, data-based decision-making, IEP and Transition Planning, and special education policies.
• Assist building personnel with curriculum adaptation, intervention selection, and implementation to support students with special needs.
• Coordinate and supervise Extended School Year needs and transition services for students.
• Oversee special education assessments and collaborate with the school district’s Special Education department.
• Establish goals and objectives for district-aligned Student Services and work with administrators to address building needs.
• Promote a restorative and rehabilitative approach to student conduct and help staff implement best practices for student interventions.
• Collaborate with administrators to build a cohesive system supporting students’ post-secondary success, both academically and social-emotionally.
• Communicate effectively with parents, outside agencies, and the school community regarding student needs.
• Manage and oversee digital IEP and records storage, ensuring students are placed in their least restrictive environment.

Requirements

• Current Professional Educator Certification.
• Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred) in Special Education or a related field.
• Five years of experience in school administration within the ESE department (special/exceptional services preferred).
• Strong background in special education administration and instruction, including experience with special education processes, procedures, legal requirements, evaluations, and IEP development.
• Experience with social-emotional learning competencies and working with social, emotional, and behavioral intervention teams.

Skills

• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Ability to build and lead an effective team, leveraging talents and providing coaching for growth.
• Strategic thinking and proactive leadership with a focus on mission-driven outcomes.
• Ability to design and manage data collection plans and collaboratively manage change processes.
• Ability to create a positive workplace culture aligned with NCA’s mission and vision.