What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Director of Special Education position at McPherson USD 418?
McPherson County Special Education Cooperative
Executive Director of Special Education
Application Window Open March 26 - April 10, 2026
Interviews will take place April 16, 2026
Start Date July 1, 2026
Qualifications
- Holds or is eligible to obtain district level certification to serve as a Director of Special Education issued by the Kansas State Board of Education.
- Minimum of three years of accredited professional experience, including at least one year in a recognized area of special education.
- Demonstrated knowledge of special education law, program administration, and instructional leadership.
- Such alternative qualifications as the Board of Education may find appropriate and acceptable.
Reports To
USD 418 Superintendent
Coordinates With
McPherson County Superintendents and the McPherson County Superintendent’s Advisory Council
Supervises
All special education personnel within the McPherson County Special Education Cooperative and other staff as assigned.
Job Goal
The Executive Director of Special Education provides strategic leadership and administrative oversight for the McPherson County Special Education Cooperative. This position ensures the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of high-quality special education services that meet the needs of students with disabilities. The Executive Director works collaboratively with participating districts, educators, families, and community partners to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations while promoting inclusive practices and positive student outcomes.
Basic Responsibilities
The Executive Director of Special Education serves as the chief administrative officer of the McPherson County Special Education Cooperative under the supervision of the USD 418 Superintendent. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership, coordination, and management of cooperative programs, services, and personnel.
The Executive Director ensures that all services provided through the cooperative comply with federal and state special education laws and regulations, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Kansas State Plan for Special Education, and applicable district policies.
The Executive Director may delegate responsibilities to qualified cooperative staff members as appropriate while maintaining overall accountability for program implementation, service delivery, and compliance.
Performance Responsibilities
Program Leadership
- Provides leadership and oversight for all special education programs and services within the McPherson County Special Education Cooperative.
- Ensures that students with disabilities receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).
- Oversees the development, implementation, and evaluation of special education programs to ensure effectiveness, compliance, and continuous improvement.
- Uses student performance data and program evaluation results to guide program development and service delivery improvements.
Compliance and Legal Oversight
- Ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies related to special education.
- Oversees procedural safeguards, due process requirements, and the protection of student and parent rights under special education law.
- Maintains accurate records and submits required reports to state and federal agencies.
Personnel Leadership
- Recruits, selects, supervises, and evaluates cooperative staff.
- Provides leadership, support, and professional growth opportunities for special education staff.
- Develops staffing plans and oversees caseload management to ensure appropriate service delivery for students.
Fiscal Management
- Develops and manages the cooperative budget in collaboration with the USD 418 Business Office Manager.
- Monitors expenditures and ensures responsible fiscal management of cooperative resources.
- Identifies and pursues funding opportunities, including grants and state or federal funding sources.
Collaboration and Communication
- Works collaboratively with participating district superintendents, administrators, and staff to support effective special education services across member districts.
- Facilitates and supports meetings of the McPherson County Superintendent’s Advisory Council by providing data, reports, and program updates.
- Builds strong partnerships with families, community agencies, and educational partners to support student success.
Policy and Strategic Leadership
- Monitors state and federal legislation and recommends policy or procedural changes necessary to maintain compliance and improve services.
- Recommends the development, implementation, modification, or discontinuation of programs to the McPherson County Superintendent’s Advisory Council, with final approval by the USD 418 Board of Education.
- Leads strategic planning and continuous improvement efforts to strengthen cooperative services.
Additional Duties
- Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the USD 418 Superintendent or the McPherson County Superintendent’s Advisory Council.