Director of Specialized Services 

Location: 3300 Henry Avenue, Philadelphia, PA

Start Date: Spring 2024

Contact: jobs@hebrewpublic.org 

Network Website: www.hebrewpublic.org

School Website: www.philadelphiahebrewpublic.org 

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION:

Hebrew Public Charter Schools for Global Citizens

Our mission is to lead a national movement of exceptional, diverse public charter schools that teach Modern Hebrew to children of all backgrounds and prepare them to be successful global citizens. Our schools are models of racial and economic integration, academic excellence, and world language learning. Hebrew Public manages schools in New York City and Philadelphia, and also supports an affiliate network of schools in California, Washington DC, New Jersey, and Minnesota. 

Our focus on global citizenship is embodied by three core elements: 

• The building of relationships across difference, embodied by our focus on racial, cultural, and economic diversity
• The study of Modern Hebrew and of Israel as a window into other languages, cultures and experiences
• Our unique set of global citizenship values that infuse all that we do, described through the acronym OLAM (the Hebrew word for “world”). These values include Outstanding Problem Solving, Lifelong Learning, Aware Communication and Making a Difference.

Our schools help students grow to become empathetic, ethical, intellectually curious young adults committed to solving the world’s problems. Other key program elements in Hebrew Public’s New York City schools include the Responsive Classroom model, Expeditionary Learning, Close Reading, Wilson Reading System, Eureka, Number Stories, Fundations and Geodes.

The network’s first school in Philadelphia, Philadelphia Hebrew Public, opened in 2019, serving 156 students in Kindergarten and 1st grade. The school is expanding to 5th grade in 2023-24 and will add a grade level each year until it ultimately serves grades K to 8 in the 2026-27 school year. PHP provides students with a sophisticated core curriculum in English Language Arts, mathematics, Modern Hebrew, the sciences, social studies, art, and physical education.

About the Position: 

This is an exciting time to join Philadelphia Hebrew Public in its fifth year. Join a remarkable community of educators and social changemakers who are passionate about meaningful integration and global education and are relentlessly committed to ensuring students from all backgrounds attain high levels of academic achievement. We select individuals who share our vision and are willing to put in the hard work to achieve it. We are seeking a mission-driven Director of Specialized Services that operates with a high sense of urgency and possesses a strong work ethic.

The Director of Specialized Services is directly responsible for improving the academic and behavioral performance of students with specialized services. The Dean of Student Supports manages and coordinates all specialized services including special education, 504 plans, Academic and Social Emotional Interventions, and English Language Development. The overarching goal is to ensure that each student has the appropriate individualized support plan to ensure their academic and social emotional success.

Job Responsibilities:

• Manage the Specialized Services programming at a school including all Special Education Services, 504 plans, Academic and Social Emotional Interventions, and English Learner services.
• Manage ESL services including staff, compliance and testing.
• Implement, supervise and facilitate the Philadelphia Hebrew Public intervention programs and curricula.
• Supervise and coordinate the Individual Education Plan (IEP) and 504 processes.
• Supervise and coordinate evaluations and related services for students.
• Coordinate and monitor the School Social Work services and Mental Health services of partner organizations.
• Chair and conduct manifestation determination meetings and other special education meetings.
• Ensure the implementation of accommodations in the general education environment.
• Ensure that student files are in full compliance with all special education and ESL laws. 
• Serve as a member of the school’s Leadership Team.
• Conduct informal and formal evaluations for special education and ESL teachers and other school staff members.
• State, local and federal Special Education and ESL reporting.
• Maintaining and updating student information systems (i.e. Special Programs, PowerSchool, Infinite Campus).
• Support Head of School and other leaders in leading the school and creating a culture of student achievement.

Minimum Requirements:

• Master’s Degree in Special Education required
• Experiencing managing ESL program and compliance
• At least five (5) years of urban education experience required
• Must be PA state certified in special education and administration
• Knowledge of Federal and State Special Education Laws
• Knowledge of teaching methods, curriculum, and education programs designed for students with learning, physical and behavioral disabilities.
• Knowledge of Positive Behavior Supports related to individuals with learning, developmental, and/or emotional disabilities
• Knowledge of English Language Development, teaching practices and programming.
• Knowledge of Academic and Social Emotional Interventions.
• Strong communication skills and ability to develop trusting relationships with students, staff, and families.
• A strong sense of personal agency and accountability for student achievement
• A belief that all students should be held to high academic standards
• Demonstrated professionalism and responsibility, and a strong work ethic
• A positive, high-energy attitude and a drive for personal excellence
• Legally authorized to work in the USA

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Salary and benefits will be highly competitive, equitable, and commensurate with experience. Starting salaries range from $100,000 or above based on experience and qualifications.

Potential benefits* include:

• Medical
• Dental
• Employer-Paid Vision
• Prescription Drug Coverage
• Paid Holidays
• Retirement Savings and Employer Matching Programs
• Paid Parental Leave
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Coverage
• Employee Assistance and Wellness Programs
• Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employer-Paid and Voluntary Life Insurance
• Global Travel Experiences

*Benefits packages vary depending on the role.

Hebrew Public is committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve. Candidates of color and those from backgrounds that are underrepresented in school leadership roles are particularly encouraged to apply.

QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS, PLEASE APPLY:

To be considered, interested applicants must submit a resume and detailed cover letter.