Manager, OSD Academic Access

Job Summary

The Manager, Academic Access plays a critical leadership role in Chicago Public Schools' efforts to ensure equitable, high-quality instruction for all students with disabilities. This position oversees Special Education Coordinators and drives the implementation of inclusive, compliant, and impactful special education practices across networks and schools.

Responsibilities

• Directly supervises Special Education Coordinators across assigned networks.
• Ensures consistency, quality, and equity in service delivery across CPS networks.
• Provides clear goals, regular coaching, ongoing professional development, performance feedback, and professional growth opportunities.
• Fosters a culture of continuous improvement and instructional excellence.
• Monitors progress toward strategic goals and ensures alignment with district priorities and instructional and behavioral initiatives.
• Maintains compliance with special education laws and policies under IDEA, ADA, and CPS policy.
• Utilizes data and research to inform decision-making, identify trends, and proactively address challenges in special education practice.
• Collaborates with stakeholders, advocates, and other CPS departments to support systemic alignment and innovation.
• Supports audits, investigations, and improvement plans in response to compliance issues or concerns.
• Builds systems to promote authentic, culturally responsive engagement of families and communities in the special education process.

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field required; Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with Special Education endorsement (LBS1, LBS II, and/or ECSE) required; General Administrative Endorsement (Type 75) preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of seven (7) years of experience in special education, including at least three (3) years in a leadership, supervisory, or district-level support role; proven track record of improving special education practices and outcomes at the school or district level.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Deep understanding of effective instructional practices for students with disabilities; strong knowledge of federal and state special education laws and policies; exceptional leadership, team-building, and performance management skills; strategic thinking; excellent written and verbal communication skills; cultural competency and a demonstrated commitment to equity, access, and high expectations for all learners; expertise in leadership development and instructional leadership; strong verbal and written communication skills; high levels of instructional expertise, integrity, honesty, credibility, and the courage to make difficult yet necessary decisions; effective strategic planning capabilities; strong leadership and team building skills; knowledge of operations, budget/finance, management, and organizational development; ability to build collaborative relationships with a variety of constituent groups; ability to define problems, analyze data, and outline valid conclusions and action steps.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive health coverage options.
• Financial Security: Pension plans, supplemental retirement plans, flexible spending accounts, spot pet insurance.
• Work-Life Balance: Competitive paid time off policies.

Conditions of Employment

• Establish/Maintain Chicago Residency.