Academic Chair

Description

I. PURPOSE/FUNCTION OF PROGRAM:

Charles F. Hayden School is committed to educating students through a psycho-educational, clinically informed therapeutic milieu. Collaborative educational planning and placement teams including families and district personnel design Individualized Educational Programs (IEP) for every student. 

II. POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Academic Chair functions under the direct supervision of the Director of Education. The Academic Chair serves on the School Leadership Team (SLT) assisting in the implementation of the SEED teacher evaluation system and developing the academic curriculum. The Academic Chair is also responsible for ensuring that IEPs are fully implemented and will serve as liaison and district facilitator for the Connecticut Teacher Education and Mentor Program (CTTEAM).

III. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Responsible for developing and implementing the school curriculum ensuring that all Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and Common Core State Standards are followed.
2. Through direct observations, provide feedback, guidance, and modeling to teachers to ensure best instructional practices.
3. Assists the Director of Education in the implementation of the SEED teacher evaluation system by conducting goal setting meetings, observations and feedback regarding academic instruction and classroom management.
4. Assists the Director of Education in Monitoring and communicating all relative changes, mandates and CSDE recommendations.
5. Assures that teachers are properly prepared to participate in IEP meetings (PPTs) including the completion of any required testing, reports, and data collection.
6. Assist teachers in the development and modification of student IEPs as well as in the utilization of the CT-SEDS IEP system.
7. Organization and implementation of state testing requirements for all eligible students.
8. Participate and lead, as needed, in staff trainings, meetings, and development exercises.
9. Prepares all reports and documents related to role responsibilities in accordance with quality guidelines and due date postings.
10. Assist with the onboarding process for new teachers, ensuring they are trained in the use of powerschool.
11. Participate in the planning of professional development as applicable through the Annual School Professional Development Pland and Boys & Girls Village Professional Development Plan.
12. Collect and prepare data related to student/overall school progress tied to BGV Strategic Planning and Education and Vocational goals.
13. Serve as lead mentor to new teachers for the Connecticut Teacher Education and Mentor Program (CTTEAM).   
14. Assists the Director of Education in other miscellaneous duties related to instructional practices for teachers and academic requirements for students.

IV. ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS: 

1. At least 5 years previous experience teaching students with special needs.
2. Must have CT Special Education Certification Teacher Certification (165).
3. Demonstrated ability in managing professional staff and collaborate with other disciplines.
4. Must be able to respond to crisis situations regarding the safety of all students and staff.
5. Good communication skills

V. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Experience with curriculum development and teacher evaluation.
2. Ability to expand new programs and implement changes aligned with school needs.
3. Must have the ability to obtain the (092) certification.
4. Bi-lingual in Spanish.

VI. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Assist the Director of Education in the supervision and evaluations of teachers.

VIII. PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

1. Must be able to climb 2 flights of stairs.
2. Ability to drive off site to attend trade meetings and trainings.
3. Must be able to participate in crisis management.