Executive Director

EdLS Candidate Survey

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Job Description

• Title: Executive Director
• Location: Cooperative Association for Special Education (CASE)
• Reports To: CASE Board of Directors
• Supervises: Program Coordinator, Business Manager, Assistant Director, Administrator of Low-Incidence Services, Executive Assistant, and Central Office Staff

Position Summary
The Executive Director is the chief executive officer of CASE and is responsible for the overall leadership, vision, and administration of the Cooperative. This role ensures that all educational programs, staff, and operations meet the highest standards of excellence, are compliant with state and federal laws, and reflect the shared values and mission of the member districts.

Qualifications

• Advanced Degree in Education
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
• General Administrative Endorsement
• Director of Special Education Endorsement
• Minimum of five (5) years successful experience supervising special education programs
• Experience with Pre-K through Transition programming
• Demonstrated leadership in educational administration, special education services, and organizational management

Terms of Employment

• Work Year: 260 days
• Salary: Commensurate with experience
• Benefits: As determined by the CASE Board of Directors

Core Competencies

• Strong advocacy for students with disabilities
• Strategic leadership and collaborative vision-building
• Comprehensive knowledge of special education laws, services, and trends
• Effective communication and public relations skills
• Proficient in organizational and fiscal management
• Technologically proficient and data-driven
• Demonstrates high personal integrity, ethics, and professionalism

Key Responsibilities

I. Governance & Board Relations

• Serve as the executive officer to the Board, implementing policy and providing expert guidance
• Prepare agendas, materials, and data to inform Board decisions
• Ensure full compliance with state and federal special education laws and regulations
• Communicate professional goals to the Board annually
• Maintain effective and transparent communication with the Board

II. Personnel Leadership

• Recommend all hires, terminations, and personnel actions for Board approval
• Supervise and evaluate administrative, licensed, and non-licensed personnel
• Provide staff with clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations
• Lead professional development initiatives to enhance staff performance and student outcomes
• Ensure compliance with personnel laws and CASE policies

III. Instructional & Program Leadership

• Develop, implement, and evaluate innovative instructional programs and services
• Ensure all services align with ISBE standards and CASE’s mission
• Lead strategic planning and the implementation of high-quality educational practices
• Promote inclusive education and a full continuum of services
• Collaborate with district leaders to address programmatic needs

IV. Financial & Operational Oversight

• Develop and manage the Cooperative’s annual budget
• Report financial status regularly to the Board
• Oversee all contracts, purchasing, and cost-saving measures
• Maintain and ensure the safety of CASE facilities
• Ensure effective technology integration and services

V. Community & Public Engagement

• Represent CASE in public forums and community events
• Develop strong relationships with families, community members, and local agencies
• Promote parent engagement and address family concerns
• Lead public relations efforts and maintain a positive public image

VI. Legal Compliance & Accountability

• Ensure adherence to constitutional, statutory, and ISBE regulatory requirements
• Maintain timely and accurate reporting to state and federal agencies
• Monitor and enforce the implementation of Board-approved policies

Professional Expectations

• Uphold the mission and values of CASE
• Model ethical conduct, professionalism, and confidentiality
• Be adaptable and responsive to change
• Engage in continuous self-assessment and professional development
• Foster a respectful, inclusive, and productive work culture
• Maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming work environment
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Board of Directors