What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Director of Special Education (26/27) position at Barre Unified Union School District?
Are you a visionary special education leader who believes every student deserves rigorous, inclusive, and personalized learning opportunities? Do you thrive at the intersection of instructional leadership, systems improvement, and collaborative problem-solving?
The Barre Unified Union School District is seeking a dynamic Assistant Director of Special Services to help lead and strengthen our district’s special education programs and services. This is an opportunity to shape systems, elevate instructional practice, and ensure equitable outcomes for students with disabilities across PreK–12 settings. For complete job description, click here. The position start date is July 1, 2026 to begin preparing for the 2026/2027 school year.
Why This Role Matters
The Assistant Director plays a pivotal leadership role in:
- Strengthening high-quality, specially designed instruction
- Ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations
- Building professional capacity across schools
- Promoting inclusive practices and equitable access
- Supporting staff through mentorship, supervision, and professional learning
- Aligning special education services with district-wide academic goals
This position is ideal for a leader who balances strategic thinking with hands-on support and who is equally comfortable analyzing data, coaching educators, and collaborating with families.
What You'll Do:
Lead Program Development & Compliance
- Guide the development and refinement of special education programs and services.
- Oversee the district evaluation team and ensure timely, high-quality assessments.
- Monitor out-of-district placements and program effectiveness.
- Ensure full compliance with federal and state special education regulations.
- Stay current on research, legislation, and best practices.
Drive Instructional Excellence
- Promote rigorous, differentiated, and student-centered instructional practices.
- Model effective use of assessment data to improve student outcomes.
- Provide actionable feedback through research-based supervision and evaluation.
- Mentor and support special education staff in reflective and continuous professional growth.
- Coordinate meaningful professional development aligned to district priorities.
Manage Resources Strategically
- Support development and oversight of the Special Education budget.
- Collaborate on school-based budget planning and required reporting.
- Align staffing assignments and scheduling to maximize impact and meet student needs.
Build Strong Partnerships
- Cultivate collaborative relationships with families, staff, and community partners.
- Partner with building administrators to ensure aligned service delivery.
- Work closely with district leaders to strengthen inclusive systems and coordinated supports.
What You'll Need:
- Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field
- Must hold or be qualified for Vermont endorsement 3-86 (Director of Special Education)
- Strong knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, and relevant state/federal regulations
- Demonstrated experience in special education program administration, staff supervision, and budget management
- Proven ability to lead with equity, cultural responsiveness, and student-centered practices
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills
Interview Timeline (for candidates invited to interview, the following weeks are anticipated):
- Week of March 23 - Interview
- Week of March 30 - Superintendent Interview
Salary : $85,000 - $94,186