Anticipated Director of Student Services

POSITION: Anticpated, Director of Student Services

START DATE: TBD

BARGAINING UNIT: Act 93

SALARY: Commensurate with experience

Please take note of the tentative interview dates below:

November 16 - Posting closes for review of candidates 

November 24 - Round One (Virtual Interviews 10:30am-12:30pm and 3:30-4:30pm) 

December 1 - Round Two (In person Interviews 12:00-4:00pm) 

December 10 - Final Round (In person Interviews 12:00-2:00pm) 

December 15 - Board approval at the December 15th Legislative Meeting

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

The Director of Student Services provides leadership in developing, implementing, and sustaining comprehensive programs that support the academic, social-emotional, and behavioral growth of all students. Rooted in the District’s commitment to inclusivity, equity, and innovation, the Director ensures that services such as special education, gifted education, counseling, nursing, and Section 504 are designed to empower every learner to contribute and thrive. This position upholds compliance with federal, state, and local regulations; fosters collaborative partnerships among staff, families, and community members; and ensures that every student experiences a safe and supportive learning environment aligned with the District’s mission and vision.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

• The Director of Student Services reports directly to the Assistant Superintendent and works closely with the Superintendent.
• This position supervises Supervisors of Special Education at the Elementary, Middle, and High School Levels and Supervisor of Student Services.
• This position is a member of the Executive Leadership Team.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic and Systems Leadership

• Provide leadership in the planning, development, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of Special Education, Section 504, and Gifted Education programs across all grade levels.
• Oversee district services including health, counseling, attendance, and student discipline for students with disabilities.
• Direct the development and execution of early intervention and extended school year programs.
• Coordinate out-of-district placements when appropriate to ensure students receive services in the least restrictive environment.
• Collaborate with Teaching and Learning administrators to align curriculum, instructional practices, and interventions that meet diverse learning needs.
• Advocate for students and programs served under Student Services to ensure equitable access and representation.
• Lead the planning and coordination of district-wide student attendance programs, including monitoring and addressing truancy.

 Compliance and Legal Oversight

• Ensure full compliance with federal and state laws and regulations governing Special Education, Section 504, and Gifted Education programs, including IDEA.
• Approve all placement decisions for students with disabilities and oversee related screening and eligibility procedures.
• Interpret, prepare, and disseminate information regarding legally mandated changes related to attendance, discipline, and due process.
• Serve as a district resource in matters involving discipline of students with disabilities, ensuring adherence to legal and ethical standards.
• Collaborate with district counsel and administrators in responding to legal matters, hearings, and due process procedures.

Budget and Resource Management

• Prepare and manage budgets for all Student Services areas, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with district priorities.
• Monitor expenditures and recommend cost-effective strategies to enhance programming and service delivery.
• Oversee child accounting and reporting for special education and related services.

Professional Development and Staff Supervision

• Identify, design, and coordinate professional development activities that strengthen inclusive practices, legal compliance, and instructional quality.
• Supervise and evaluate Student Services personnel in accordance with district policy.
• Promote a collaborative, reflective, and growth-oriented culture among staff members.
• Stay current on educational trends, legislation, and best practices related to student services and inclusionary practices.

Collaboration, Communication, and Community Engagement

• Maintain strong partnerships with families, staff, and community agencies to coordinate services that support the whole child.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders about Student Services programs, procedures, and initiatives.
• Serve as a liaison with community organizations and external agencies to enhance support networks for students and families.
• Collaborate with district leadership in the development and revision of Board policies related to Student Services.

Data, Records, and Accountability

• Administer and supervise procedures for enrollment, transfer, and placement of students in compliance with laws, regulations, and Board policy.
• Direct the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of accurate student records in accordance with confidentiality requirements.
• Analyze program data to inform decisions that improve student outcomes and program effectiveness.

Additional Responsibilities

• Performs other duties as assigned by Supervisor or designee

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Administrative experience in special education required; experience as a Director of Student Services (or related position) preferred.
• Must hold a valid Pennsylvania certificate for one of the following: Supervisor of Pupil Services; Superintendent, Principal.
• Must possess knowledge of federal and state special education regulations.
• Must have strong interpersonal, supervisory, leadership, and organizational skills.

COGNITIVE/COMMUNICATION ABILITIES:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate complex situations and develop effective solutions.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to prioritize, manage multiple initiatives, and align resources with district goals.
• Sound decision-making using professional judgment, critical thinking, and evidence-based practices.
• Knowledge of laws, regulations, and policies governing Special Education, Section 504, and Gifted Education.
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication with diverse audiences.
• Collaborative interpersonal skills to build relationships, facilitate meetings, and resolve conflicts constructively.
• Demonstrates leadership, professionalism, and the ability to manage competing priorities effectively

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

To successfully perform this position, a person must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The qualification requirements listed above represent minimum levels of educational achievement, training, skill and/or ability necessary. As required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Current Act 34, Act 114 and Act 151 clearances
• School Health Form (including physical and TB test)
• PDE Form 6004 and Act 168 disclosure forms