Director of Student Services

Director of Student Services Merrimac Heights Academy is seeking a dynamic, experienced and innovative individual to join our talented and dedicated faculty to promote our mission of empowering students for a lifetime of success. The Director of Student Services reports to directly to the Executive Director Key Responsibilities: *Special Education Leadership Direct the special education program, ensuring full compliance with state and federal regulations and alignment with best practices Guide implementation and evaluation of IEPs to support student achievement Collaborate closely with the Curriculum Director and Executive Director to support curriculum planning and enhance student programming Ensure compliance with DESE monitoring, reporting, and corrective actions Coordinate responses to special education complaints and legal matters Advise the Special Education Parent Advisory Council *Special Education Compliance and IEP Oversight Oversee all IEP and re-evaluations, including timeliness, reviews, and compliance Serve as primary liaison with parents/guardians regarding special education programming, IEP development, and progress Chair and attend meetings; review, approve, and sign IEPs Collaborate with teachers, related service providers, outside evaluators to ensure meaningful goals and accommodations Oversee student placement, transitions, and record keeping Submit required reports and ensure compliance with DESE regulations *Supervision and Instructional Leadership Supervise teaching and related service staff, and instructional assistants to ensure that instruction aligns with service delivery requirements Conduct classroom observations to monitor instructional alignment and commitment of IEP implementation Lead the development, implementation and monitoring of Performance Improvement Plans for instructional staff together with Executive Director Participate in the hiring, supervision and retention of certified, therapeutic and support staff Provide leadership and vision to ensure continuous organizational development and improvement *Qualifications: Masters degree in special education, education leadership or related field. Minimum of five years working directly with students and at least three years in an educational leadership role. Special Education Administrator License from MA DESE Strong knowledge of IEP processes and special education law Demonstrated commitment to equity and anti-racist practices Strong communication and organizational skills Experience supervising or providing instructional leadership to educators. Energy, flexibility, and collaboration skills to thrive in a dynamic school environment