Director of Special Education

Director of Special Education Job ID: 5510143 Application Deadline: Posted until filled Posted: Jan 23, 2026 6:00 AM (UTC) Starting Date: Jul 1, 2026 Job Description Job Summary: The Director of Special Education provides leadership, supervision, and compliance oversight for the district’s special education programs and related services. This role ensures students with disabilities receive a Free Appropriate the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) in accordance with IDEA, Section 504, ADA, and applicable state rules. The Director supports high‑quality instruction, effective service delivery, and collaborative problem‑solving with staff and families. Program Leadership and Instructional Support Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of district. Promote inclusive practices and effective instructional strategies for students with disabilities. Support campus leaders and teachers with evidence‑based interventions, progress monitoring, and specially designed instruction. Provide leadership for IEP implementation and service plans and goals. Compliance and Legal Requirements Ensure district‑wide compliance with IDEA, state special education regulations, Section 504/ADA, and district policies. Oversee IEP processes, timelines, procedural safeguards, evaluation/re‑evaluation procedures, and required documentation. Support dispute prevention and resolution; coordinate responses to complaints, due process, and corrective actions as needed. Maintain systems for record‑keeping, audit readiness, and monitoring of compliance indicators. Evaluation, Eligibility, and Data Oversight Oversee referral, evaluation, and eligibility determination processes in collaboration with evaluators and campus teams. Use student and program data to guide decisions, improve outcomes, and ensure appropriate placement and services. Ensure accurate special education reporting and state submissions, including timely and complete documentation. Staffing, Supervision, and Professional Learning Supervise and support special education staff as assigned (e.g., SPED teachers, related service providers, paraprofessionals, evaluators). Assist with recruitment, hiring, onboarding, coaching, and performance evaluation of special education personnel. Plan and deliver professional learning for teachers and administrators on IEP implementation, accommodations/modifications, and compliance practices. Budget, Resources, and Contracts Develop and manage the special education department budget. Coordinate the use of state and federal special education funds and ensure allowable spending practices. Manage contracts and partnerships (e.g., OT/PT, speech services, outside placements), including monitoring performance and compliance. Collaborate on assistive technology and specialized instructional materials to meet student needs. Collaboration and Family Engagement Partner with principals and district leaders to align programming and supports for students with disabilities. Foster positive relationships with families through clear communication, collaboration, and responsiveness. Coordinate transition planning and services (early childhood transition, secondary transition to postsecondary education/employment, and related supports). Required Qualifications Master’s degree in Special Education Valid state certification/licensure in Special Education Administration (as required by the state/district). Minimum of X years of successful experience in special education (teaching and/or leadership experience preferred). Demonstrated knowledge of IDEA, FAPE, LRE, evaluation procedures, IEP development/implementation, and related services. Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and conflict‑resolution skills. Preferred Qualifications Special education administration certification/endorsement. Experience supervising staff and managing budgets/contracts. Experience with compliance monitoring, audits, and dispute resolution. Background in inclusive practices, MTSS, and behavioral support systems. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Deep understanding of special education law and practical implementation in schools. Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and lead continuous improvement efforts. Ability to coach educators and build collaborative relationships across teams. Strong written communication for reports, compliance documentation, and family communication. Ability to manage multiple deadlines and high‑stakes situations calmly and professionally. Equal Opportunity Statement The district is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. Position Type: Full‑Time Job Categories: Administration > Special Education Director Job Requirements Citizenship, residency or work visa required Contact Information Tristan Knoedl, Superintendent Bismarck Administration Office Phone: 501-865-4888 Email: tristan.knoedl@bsd-lions.net #J-18808-Ljbffr