Assistant Director of Student Services

The position supports the leadership, coordination, and continuous improvement of district-wide special education programs and pupil personnel services, with a focus on ensuring compliance, high-quality instruction, and effective service delivery for students with diverse needs. The role involves overseeing program implementation aligned to Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504, monitoring IEP development and student progress, and ensuring adherence to Illinois State Board of Education regulations and district policies. Responsibilities include supporting student placement across a continuum of services, collaborating with families and external agencies, and providing instructional leadership and coaching to staff to strengthen inclusive practices and outcomes. The role also contributes to compliance oversight, legal processes, Medicaid claiming, and data-driven decision-making, while partnering with district leaders to build staff capacity, manage resources, and maintain strong systems that support student success across settings.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Administration

• Assist in the support and oversight of district-wide special education programs and pupil personnel services
• Monitor program effectiveness and recommend improvements aligned to district goals and student needs
• Support the implementation of IDEA and Section 504 frameworks
• Maintain familiarity with all district and out-of-district programs to ensure appropriate student placement and services
  
  

Compliance & Legal Oversight

• Ensure compliance with IDEA, ISBE regulations, and district policies
• Support IEP development, implementation, and compliance monitoring
• Assist with due process, mediation preparation, legal documentation, and collaboration with district attorneys
• Oversee Medicaid claiming (IL MAC/PCGUS) and Random Moment Time Study processes
  
  

Student Services & Placement Oversight

• Support and monitor student placements in district, therapeutic, nonpublic, and residential settings
• Serve as liaison and case manager for outplaced students, ensuring compliance, communication, and progress monitoring
• Support special education transportation in collaboration with transportation services
• Support transitions across programs and grade levels
• Collaborate with families and outside agencies to ensure appropriate services and placements
  
  

Instructional Leadership & Staff Support

• Provide coaching, technical assistance, and leadership to IES Coordinators, related service providers, and school teams
• Support the development of high-quality IEPs, progress monitoring, and instructional practices
• Analyze student data to inform programming, services, and decision-making
• Promote professional learning communities and continuous improvement practices
• Assist with district-wide professional development for specialized services staff
  
  

Human Resources & Staffing Support

• Support recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and retention of special education personnel
• Build staff capacity through coaching, feedback, and professional growth opportunities
• Provide leadership in developing high-performing, collaborative teams
  
  

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as liaison to principals, administrators, families, and community agencies
• Support communication regarding programming, compliance, and student needs
• Maintain partnerships with therapeutic programs, private schools, and community organizations
• Participate in district committees and represent the district in meetings as assigned
  
  

Systems, Operations & Data Management

• Maintain accurate student records, service documentation, and compliance timelines
• Support district assessments and accommodations (e.g., WIDA, NWEA, ACCESS, DLM)
• Analyze program data and generate reports to guide decision-making and ensure accountability
• Support budgeting, resource allocation, and program planning
  
  

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with Extended School Year (ESY) planning and implementation
• Participate in professional development to remain current with educational trends and legal updates
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by the Director or Superintendent
  
  

Education Required

In order to be successful and achieve the above responsibilities, the Manager of Student Specialized Services and Support must possess the following qualifications:

• Illinois Type 75 General Administrative Endorsement
• Illinois Approval as Director of Special Education
• An earned Master's Degree Special Education teaching certificate (LBS I) or School Service Personnel (Type 73)
  
  

Experience Required

• At least five (5) years teaching experience
• At least three (3) years of experience teaching a minimum of one area of special education
• Administrative experience preferred
  
  

Compensation And Benefits (2026-2027 School Year)

$95,000-$110,000 (excluding TRS)

Benefits Include

• Medical and Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Life Insurance and Long-term Disability
• Teachers Retirement System (TRS) Pension plan
• Flexible Benefits Plan
• Tax Deferred Annuities
• Vacation Days
• Sick Days
• Personal Days
• Employee Assistance Program
  

Application Procedure

Apply online at www.district65.net

Selection Procedure

Qualified candidates will be notified to schedule an interview