Special Education Supervisor

Duties And Responsibilities

• Regularly evaluates the effectiveness of special education programs using data analysis and implements data-driven improvements based on student outcomes, teacher feedback, and parent input
• Provides staff development opportunities that incorporate the mission of the department & district including topics such as inclusive practices, differentiated instruction, assessment, legal updates, co-teaching, and specific disability-related needs
• Provides guidance and support to IEP teams to ensure compliant and effective IEP development, implementation, and reviews
• Demonstrate effective coaching and modeling in all areas of program, processes & procedures to improve the compliance and educational outcomes for students with IEPs
• Works with administration to recruit, hire, train, mentor, coach and evaluate program staff
• Communicate the philosophy, goals and objectives of the district special education program to the students, parents, staff and community at large
• Works with the educational team to facilitate development and implementation of positive behavior supports and effective instructional practices across general and special education settings
• Collaborates with school staff to work effectively with families of students with disabilities
• Develops and promotes parent outreach opportunities and parent involvement
• Works to resolve disputes between parents and the district regarding special education services, utilizing mediation and other conflict resolution strategies as needed.
• Oversees the transition planning process for students with disabilities as they move from preschool to elementary school, from elementary to secondary school, and from high school to post-secondary settings
• Advocates for the needs of students with disabilities within the district and community
• Ensures district compliance with all federal and state special education regulations (IDEA, MARSE), including overseeing IEP development, implementation, and reviews, and conducting regular compliance audits
• Collaborates effectively with the local Intermediate School District (ISD) to access resources, support, and professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree from an accredited college/university with particular emphasis on administration, special education, educational leadership, or a related field
• Michigan teaching certificate with special education endorsement and evidence of five years of effective experience providing direct instruction to students with IEPs in a variety of educational settings relevant to the district’s student population (Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disabilities, Cognitive Impairment and Emotional Impairment)
• Full or temporary state approval or working towards approval in educational requirements for the position of Special Education Supervisor according to Rule 72 of the Michigan Administrative Rules for Special Education
• Demonstrated leadership skills, knowledge of and proven performance in co-teaching, specialized instruction and academic interventions for students eligible for special education
• Understand and experience with alternative assessment methods for students with disabilities
• Knowledge of special education laws, rules, regulations and compliance responsibilities including district compliance with IDEA and MARSE
• Knowledge of general education curriculum and an understanding of how modifications and accommodations work to make it accessible to students with a disability
• Creative, flexible, hands-on problem solver who builds relationships with individual students, parents, staff and community members
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with data collection and analysis related to special education programs (e.g., student progress, program effectiveness, compliance)
• Evidence of competency in technology including familiarity with various assistive technologies and their application for students with disabilities
• Highly organized, and great attention to details
• Able to learn new skills and deal with constant change