Director of Special Programs

Overview

Académie Lafayette, a K-12 French immersion public charter school in Kansas City, Missouri, is seeking a Director of Special Programs.  The Director plans, implements and supervises the following programs: Special Education, Section 504, Title Services, Counseling/Social Work, Nursing and all related student support services.

Status of Position

This is a full-time position with Académie Lafayette.  This is an exempt position pursuant to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Reporting

The Director of Special Programs will report to the Superintendent.

Responsibilities

• Program Responsibilities:  The Director of Special Programs plans and implements program goals and objectives for the SPED program K - 12 while maintaining an awareness of current laws, policies and regulations for specific programs.  The Director applies current research and techniques to ensure that all individuals with exceptional needs are appropriately identified, assessed, and provided appropriate education programs and services.  Administers the 504 Program for eligible students according to federal regulations; Prepares and administers the local Compliance Plan for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
• Administrative Responsibilities:  Represents the school in legal proceedings, participates in IEP meetings, discussions, informal conferences, mediations and due process hearings to resolve issues regarding to special education students.  The Director assists in the development of policies and procedures related to special education, and performs regular program reviews and recommends chances in program administration, methodology, curriculum and/or procedures as necessary.  Serves as the liaison for the Missouri State Plan for Education for the Homeless.

Other Responsibilities

The Director of Special Programs shall be assigned the following additional tasks:

• Develops and maintains liaison with appropriate governmental agencies and relevant community groups and remains current on legislation pertaining to areas of special programs
• Recommends and manages the budget for special education programs.
• Works with the Principals to select, manage and retain Special Education staff.
• Provides staff development for special education personnel.
• Disseminates information regarding special education to staff, students, parents and the community.
• Serves as the custodian of special education records.
• Analyzes and secures contract services and provides oversight.
• Providing support to create a cohesive Académie Lafayette school community and leadership team.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the Superintendent or Principal.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Special Education Staff, Title Services, Counselors/Social Work, Nurses

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in Special Education or equivalent.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in the field of special education, with leadership experience in serving special education programming and students.
• Missouri administrator license with director of special education endorsement required.
• Knowledge of State and Federal legislation as it relates to Special Education and other programs
• Skill in the establishment and maintenance of effective working relationships.
• Skill in working with diverse individuals and handling situations with tact, diplomacy and discretion.
• Knowledge of various special education learning modalities/educational philosophies.
• Demonstrate the highest standards of honesty, integrity, flexibility and responsiveness.
• Ability to be proactive and innovative.
• Fluency in the French language is a plus but not required.

Other Requirements

• Be willing to pass the MACHS Federal and State Background check as well as be registered with the Family Care Safety Registry