Director of Special Services

Director of Special Services As Director of Special Services, you will deliver measurable results while serving as the educational leader of the Special Services Department, responsible for articulating the department’s district-wide mission, vision, and educational goals to faculty, staff, families, students and the public. As the educational leader of the Department of Special Services, you will promote the Department’s initiatives and the development and sustainability of best practices as related to the effective implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and Section 504 Plans, within the framework of Board Policy and all legal guidelines. The Director of Special Services is responsible for coordinating alignment of materials and resources, instructional program evaluation, personnel management, department professional development, staff scheduling, and effective fiscal management of the Department of Special Services. The Director of Special Services provides leadership to coordinate and supervise the effective delivery of Special Education services (Pre-K to High School) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Reports to: Superintendent of Schools Supervision: Directly supervises administrative office staff, IEP Coordinators, 504 Coordinator, Assistive Technologists, and oversees Special Education Teachers and Educational Technicians. Terms of Employment: Full-time, Year-round, Union, Salaried Position Salary Range: $142,800 - $164,566, as per Administrator Association CBA, Salary Schedule A, CY 2026-2027 Qualifications Love what you do, working at RSU 21 developing educational programs for teachers and students. Must have a Maine certification as Director of Special Education (030). Minimum of earned Master’s degree and at least five (5) years experience as a special educator and two (2) years of administrative experience. Evidence of strong skills in the following areas: Budget and school finance Special education and school law Interpersonal, collaboration, and communication skills Community relations Curriculum and instruction Educational philosophy and theory Leadership and organizational management Creativity in individualized program development Personnel management Staff development Supervision and evaluation of personnel Responsibilities Leadership Collaborate with the Superintendent, Building Principals, and district special services staff to ensure equitable access to support and services for all students. Ensure high quality and certified staff are hired, retained, and provided with ongoing professional development opportunities. Ensure all schools and staff adhere to state and federal compliance requirements. Contribute to the development of the district’s educational philosophy. Remain informed of all legal requirements governing special education and Section 504. Provide leadership in establishing new programs and improving existing programs. Evaluate programs continuously and recommend changes as needed. Participate in recruitment, selection, and hiring recommendations for Special Services personnel. Maintain all legally required reports, records, and documentation. Develop and maintain complete records for all students receiving special services. Develop and manage the annual Special Services budget. Interpret Special Services objectives and programs to stakeholders and the public. Establish procedures for requisitioning and purchasing equipment and supplies. Approve supplies, materials, and texts used by Special Services personnel. Engage in ongoing professional growth and attend relevant conferences and meetings. Participate in planning and implementation of staff professional development. Student Centered Implement strategies to optimize inclusion and high-quality instruction. Ensure effective implementation of research-based interventions. Support learning environments that meet student needs. Establish procedures for evaluation, placement, and reappraisal of students. Coordinate home instruction for homebound or hospitalized students. Evaluate special service programs, curricula, procedures, and student achievement. Consult with parents of students enrolled in special services programs. Maintain strong knowledge of evidence-based intervention strategies. Climate and Culture Cultivate a trusting, transparent, and goal-oriented district-wide culture. Incorporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion goals into all programs and practices. Cabinet Member Influence district-wide issues and Cabinet-level decisions. Seek Cabinet input to inform department goals and priorities. Provide strategic input and thought partnership to the Board of Directors. Coach and consult with district administrators. Key Competencies Visionary: Maintains a long-term strategic view and plans with imagination and wisdom. Commitment to Management: Coaches and supports staff while promoting accountability and excellence. Strategic Prioritization: Focuses on the highest priorities and drives results effectively. Accountability: Holds self and staff accountable to expectations and outcomes. Subject Expertise: Demonstrates leadership and expertise in special education and emerging trends. Critical Judgment and Decision-Making: Resolves difficult issues with thoughtful and impactful solutions. Communication Skills: Clearly articulates complex concepts and gathers information effectively. Problem-Solving: Takes a proactive approach to resolving issues and collaborating with stakeholders. Reasonable Accommodations RSU 21 will provide accommodations to an individual with a disability, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or applicable law, who has made the district aware of their disability, unless doing so would cause an undue hardship to the district. Evaluation The Superintendent manages the annual performance evaluation process of the Director of Special Services including goal setting, periodic check-ins, and an end-of-year review.

Salary : $142,800 - $164,566