Special Education Director

Position Details

WOODLAND HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT POSITION TITLE: Director of Special Education REPORTS TO: Assistant to the Superintendent for Administrative Services LOCATION: Central Office Purpose of Position: Accountable for planning, organizing, and implementing educational programs and individual prescriptions to meet the needs of exceptional children who cannot sufficiently benefit from regular classroom programs. Education and Experience Minimum of a master's degree in education, Educational Leadership, Special Education, School Psychology, Pupil Personnel Services, or a closely related field required.and valid certification as a school administrator or supervisor in education. Minimum Experience: Five (5) years of successful experience in special education. At least three (3) years of leadership, supervisory, or central office administrative experience preferred. Licensing Requirements Pennsylvania K-12 Principal Certification and/or Pennsylvania Supervisor of Special Education Certification Superintendent Letter of Eligibility preferred. Key Responsibilities Special Education Leadership and Compliance Serve as the district leader responsible for the administration, oversight, and continuous improvement of special education programs and services. Ensure compliance with all federal and state laws, regulations, and reporting requirements related to special education, gifted education, Section 504, and student support services. Direct and supervise student identification, evaluation, placement, programming, and due process procedures for students with disabilities and gifted students. Oversee extended school year services, School-Based ACCESS programs, and specialized programming to ensure students receive appropriate supports. Coordinate services and transition planning for students entering and exiting district programs, including collaboration with Early Intervention providers and post-secondary agencies. Student Placement and Educational Programming Supervise educational programming and placement decisions for students served within district programs and in out-of-district placements. Coordinate with transportation services to ensure students' transportation needs are met for both regular and extended school-year programming. Provide oversight and collaboration regarding charter schools, cyber charter schools, approved private schools, and homeschool programs serving students with disabilities or gifted needs. Review and monitor student discipline procedures to ensure compliance with federal and state special education requirements. Leadership and Team Development Determine staffing needs and participate in the recruitment, screening, selection, assignment, supervision, and evaluation of special education and student support personnel. Collaborate with building administrators to support evaluation processes and staff development initiatives. Develop and implement professional learning opportunities that strengthen instructional practices, compliance, and student outcomes. Promote a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement among all student support personnel. Strategic Planning and Organizational Improvement Collaborate with district leadership to align student support services with district goals, strategic priorities, and student achievement initiatives. Use data, assessment results, and program evaluations to inform decision-making and improve services. Monitor program effectiveness and identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement. Develop and implement systems that ensure consistency, continuity, and quality service delivery across all schools and programs. Family and Community Engagement Build strong partnerships with families, community agencies, service providers, and educational organizations to support student success. Facilitate the resolution of parent and student concerns through proactive communication and collaborative problem-solving. Represent the district in meetings, hearings, and professional organizations related to special education and student services. Perform all duties aligned with district goals and those assigned by the Superintendent or designee. Core Knowledge Expert knowledge of special education law, regulations, compliance requirements, and instructional programming. Comprehensive understanding of gifted education, Section 504 services, student support systems, and pupil personnel services. Knowledge of counseling programs, psychological services, school health services, and student wellness initiatives. Understanding of federal programs, ELD requirements, homeless education, foster care provisions, and related compliance obligations. Knowledge of student assessment systems, PVAAS, scheduling, discipline procedures, and educational data systems. Understanding of effective leadership, organizational management, and continuous improvement processes. Essential Skills Visionary leadership that promotes equitable outcomes and high-quality services for all students. Strong organizational, planning, and project management skills. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills that foster collaboration with students, families, staff, and community partners. Ability to interpret and apply complex laws, regulations, and educational policies. Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills that support positive relationships and effective outcomes. Ability to analyze data and use evidence-based practices to improve student achievement and services. Critical Abilities Align all student support programs with district mission, vision, and strategic priorities. Ensure compliance while maintaining a student-centered approach to decision-making. Lead multidisciplinary teams effectively through collaboration, accountability, and shared purpose. Balance operational demands, legal requirements, and individual student needs in complex situations. Anticipate emerging student needs and proactively develop solutions and support. Maintain professionalism, composure, and sound judgment in challenging circumstances. Temperament Requirements Calm, compassionate, and service-oriented leader committed to student success. Collaborative and relationship-focused professional who values teamwork and inclusion. Ethical decision-maker who demonstrates integrity, fairness, and accountability. Adaptable and resilient in managing competing priorities and evolving educational requirements. Committed to continuous learning and organizational improvement. Physical / Environmental Requirements Maintain a consistent, visible presence across district buildings, offices, and operational sites. Work extended hours (greater than 40) as needed during budget development cycles, board meetings, and community events. Lead with calm and clarity during emergencies, financial audits, or operational disruptions. Adapt fluidly to shifting priorities, deadlines, and legislative or fiscal changes. Demonstrate digital fluency in financial, operational, and communication technologies. Travel within and beyond the district for professional meetings, site visits, and stakeholder engagement. Travel Requirements A moderate amount of travel is required for this position. Must have reliable transportation. Terms of Employment Twelve-month, full-time position; Act 93. Evaluation Administrative/Supervisory Appraisal Compensation Program and Administrative Fringe Benefits. Disclaimer: The information in this job description is provided to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This list is not exhaustive of the duties performed in this position. Individuals currently holding this position may be assigned additional responsibilities. Interested candidates must apply through our applicant tracking system (https://www.applitrack.com/whsd/onlineapp) and submit a letter of interest, resume, official transcripts/certifications, PA Criminal, Child Abuse and FBI clearances and three letters of reference. This posting will remain open until filled.