In compliance with state and federal laws, newton public schools is committed to equity, anti-racism and a nondiscrimination policy for students, employees and prospective applicants. All educational and employment determinations are based on an individual’s qualifications and achievements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, ancestry, homelessness, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by state and/or federal statute.

Summary:

The Assistant Director of Special Education supports the district’s special education programming by leading staff, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, and maintaining high-quality services for students with disabilities. The role oversees and evaluates special education personnel, guides the development of IEPs, and participates in key meetings, including SEPAC. This position helps manage day-to-day operational issues, coordinates schedules for services and meetings, and provides ongoing consultation to strengthen practice across the department.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or higher in educational administration or a related field
  
  
• Massachusetts DESE licensure as both an Administrator and Special Educator
  
  
• Minimum of five years of administrative experience
  
  
• Experience supervising staff in a school-based or district-based setting
  
  
• Experience working within a large school district
  
  
• Strong knowledge of achievement assessments and the ability to administer and interpret them
  
  
• Proven ability to supervise, evaluate, coach, and mentor staff effectively
  
  
• Capacity to manage a broad range of complex and evolving issues
  
  
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  
  
• Proficient and purposeful use of technology
  
  
• Demonstrated strength in organization and systems management

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities (Not Limited To):

• Oversee the development and quality of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
  
  
• Participate in special education meetings
  
  
• Support the Department Head/Director/Principal with day-to-day operational needs and issue resolution
  
  
• Coordinate scheduling of special education services and supports
  
  
• Coordinate scheduling of special education meetings
  
  
• Provide ongoing consultation and guidance to staff and programs
  
  
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

Work Environment:
Work is primarily conducted in school and classroom settings with a generally moderate noise level.

Physical Requirements:
The role requires regular walking, standing, sitting, talking, and hearing, as well as frequent bending, stooping, crouching, and kneeling. Occasional lifting or moving of objects up to 25 pounds is expected. The position may require assisting with student behavioral needs, including responding to unsafe situations, implementing physical restraints as part of a de-escalation process, and moving furniture during crisis responses.

The physical demands listed are representative of those necessary to perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.