High Desert ESD celebrates all cultures and languages and is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive considerations for employment without regards to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Executive Director of Special Programs & Services

40 hours/week, Mon-Fri, 232 days/year

$125,000 - $128,000 per year

Benefits include family insurance package, vacation, sick leave and paid holidays, generous PERS contribution.

Definition The Executive Director leads the planning, development and implementation of all K-12 special education programs within the ESD. The Director provides leadership, guidance and direction to support service staff to set and achieve the highest standards of excellence, and provides sound and visionary education programs and student support services for children and families. Supervision and staff training is required.

Qualifications There is a minimum requirement of a valid appropriate Oregon School Administrator’s license and at least 5 years’ experience in special program management, and budgeting with recent successful experience in the management of an education program. Working knowledge of general and special education practices and pertinent laws is required. Master’s degree in special education or closely related field required. Must have access to reliable transportation and consistent attendance is required. Applicants must have successful experience in working with culturally diverse families and communities, and/or have otherwise demonstrated a commitment to equity and strengthening engagement of a diverse community and skill in communicating with a diverse population.

Classification Administrative

Reports To Superintendent

Performance Responsibilities

• Direct the delivery of educational and student support programs
• Recruit, select and assign qualified staff members to deliver services within programs
• Develop and oversee budgets that meet the requirements of the funding agencies, follow ESD procedures, and ensure the most efficient and effective use of resources
• Plan and implement staff development activities that meet identified program needs and increase the expertise of staff
• Oversee compliance both at the federal and state levels for programs under IDEA and ODE state contracts
• Be responsible for Systems Performance Review and Improvement from ODE
• Ensure requirements for program oversight and direction are met
• Serve as liaison between the Oregon Department of Education and other public and private organizations relative to special education and related general education
• Work closely with regional Special Education Directors in planning and implementing special services delivery in the Central Oregon Region
• Collaborate with community agencies and providers of public and private services to children and their families to strengthen the continuum, increase service options, limit duplication, and increase efficiency and economy of effort
• Supervise and evaluate classified and licensed staff in accordance with HDESD evaluation procedures
• Ensure program cooperation in child find activities
• Submit state required reports in Special Education and ODE state contracts and grants
• Direct the completion of program reporting activities
• Lead staff to develop and implement programs and services which reflect current research and best practice
• Pursue new or additional sources of funding which will improve the caliber and quantity of services within the ESD
• Follow and support ESD policies and procedures
• Work cooperatively and harmoniously with clients, co-workers and supervisors
• Respect and maintain confidential information in all situations
• Communicate appropriately and regularly through use of email
• Fulfill other related duties as assigned

Terms of Employment Salary, benefits and vacation are established by policy and contract