Executive Director Of Student Services

GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES

The Executive Director, Student Services is responsible for the oversight, coordination, and implementation of Student Services to include psychological support, and guidance services; assists in the planning, development, implementation and maintenance of special education and Student Services, School Health, School Registration and related operational policies and regulations; ensure policies and procedures, set forth for the district to follow are in compliance with federal and state laws, rules and regulations. The work is performed under general supervision of the Chief of Student Support. The incumbent works independently; exercises judgment within defined guidelines and practices to determine appropriate action. Supervision is exercised by the Supervisor (s) of Student Services, School Health and School Registration departmental support staff and technical supervision of certain activities of school-based Student Services and counseling staffs.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The Executive Director, Student Services, provides strategic leadership and oversight for all student services programs, including counseling, psychology, social work, registration, language services, behavioral health, and wellness initiatives. The position ensures that all student support programs are aligned with APS strategic goals and are compliant with federal, state, and local regulations. The work requires a high level of independent judgment and decision-making within established policies and guidelines and involves complex coordination across multiple departments and school sites. The Executive Director's recommendations and decisions directly influence division-wide practices, student outcomes, and the quality and equity of services provided. The impact of this work is broad and systemic, benefiting students, families, and staff through the development of policies, practices, and programs that foster safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: A master's degree from an accredited college or university in School Psychology, Counseling, Social Work, Educational Leadership, or a closely related field is required. Graduate level work must have been supplemented by coursework that included curricula in school psychology, pupil personnel services, and/or special education administration is required.

A Doctorate in Education (Ed. D.), with a concentration in Educational Leadership, Special Education Administration, School Psychology, or Counseling is preferred. 

Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in student services-related fields such as school psychology, counseling, or social work within a K–12 educational setting required. 

At least three (3) years of experience in an administrative or supervisory capacity, with responsibility for managing staff, budgets, and/or district-level programs in special education, school counseling, or student support services required. 

LICENSE/CERTIFICATION

Possession of a Virginia Postgraduate Professional License with endorsements in a
• Licensed Psychologist, or Postgraduate Professional License with endorsements in a pupil service field (e.g., School Psychologist, School Counselor, or School Social Worker) and Administration and Supervision. Eligibility for Virginia Licensure through reciprocity may be acceptable.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Comprehensive knowledge of Special Education and Student Services principles, trends, instructional practices, assessment, and resource allocation.

• Thorough understanding of federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations governing educational programs and student services.

• Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and manage complex student support programs and ensure compliance with all applicable policies and mandates.

• Proven skills in leadership, personnel management, and staff development, including supervision, evaluation, and motivation of diverse teams.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities to address complex organizational and student service challenges.

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with administrators, staff, families, and community partners.

• Proficiency in budget development, resource management, and data-driven decision-making, including the use of technology and reporting tools.

• Commitment to equity, confidentiality, and continuous improvement, fostering organizational stability and professional growth.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Provide strategic leadership, guidance, and support to building-level administrators, Student Support Services staff, and specialists to ensure high-quality, legally compliant services for students with academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs.

Oversee district-wide programs in special education, school psychology, counseling, social work, language services, health, and wellness to promote equitable access and improved student outcomes.

Identify, plan, and establish division-wide goals, objectives, and priorities related to Student Services and Special Education programs.

Develop, implement, and evaluate instructional and support programs designed to enhance achievement and well-being for students with diverse learning and behavioral needs.

Ensure alignment of Student Services programs with APS strategic goals and compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including IDEA, Section 504, and related mandates.

Oversee the hiring, assignment, and evaluation of specialized instructional and support staff; provide coaching, supervision, and professional growth opportunities.

Lead departmental initiatives promoting collaborative planning, innovative program design, and the integration of social-emotional learning throughout the division.

Coordinate and direct professional development activities related to Special Education, Student Services, behavioral health, and inclusive practices.

Serve as a liaison to schools, community agencies, and educational partners to coordinate resources and ensure effective service delivery for students and families.

Advise the Chief of School Support and School Board on matters affecting Special Education and Student Services; prepare reports, presentations, and policy recommendations to ensure legal compliance and alignment with best practices.

Develop, manage, and monitor departmental budgets and staffing allocations; provide recommendations for future personnel and program needs.

Supervise, evaluate, and ensure accountability for the performance of assigned staff, including supervisors, coordinators, and departmental support personnel.

Oversee and refine systems for program evaluation, Individualized Education Program (IEP) procedures, and service delivery to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance.

Lead district efforts in crisis response, behavioral intervention, and student risk assessment in collaboration with mental health professionals and school teams.

Respond to and resolve parent concerns and complaints related to special education and student services, maintaining transparency and adherence to procedural safeguards.

Participate in and represent the district at School Board meetings, professional associations, and state or regional conferences to remain informed on emerging trends and regulatory changes.

Ensure coordination of health services and wellness programs that support student safety, attendance, and academic engagement.

Promote effective communication, collaboration, and alignment among central office departments, school administrators, and community partners to support the holistic development of all students.

Grade: P-18

Arlington Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer

It is the policy of the Arlington School Board, as stated in Policy G 2.30, Employee Relations – Equal Employment Opportunity - that "Employment opportunities shall not be restricted, abridged or otherwise adversely affected on the basis of race, national origin, creed, color, religion, gender, age, economic status, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, genetic information, gender identity or expression, and/or disability."