The Westbrook School Department is seeking a dynamic Assistant Director of Special Services to support and enhance the district’s comprehensive special education programs. This leader will collaborate closely with the Director of Special Services, department staff, and other district leaders to ensure that all students, particularly those from diverse and high-need backgrounds, have equitable and adequate educational opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Development and Evaluation
- Support the development and oversight of high-quality special education programs that adhere to state and federal regulations.
- Advocate for inclusive practices and equitable access to resources and opportunities.
- Participate in regular needs assessments and strategic planning to enhance and expand services.
Data and Performance Management
- Ensure meticulous record-keeping and reporting aligned with IDEA requirements.
- Provide guidance and support for the effective development and implementation of IEPs.
Personnel Management & Hiring
- Assist with recruiting, training, and evaluating special education staff, including therapists, clinical psychological services personnel, and social workers.
- Facilitate professional development and mentoring opportunities.
- Foster a supportive, collaborative, and inclusive work environment.
Budgeting & Resource Allocation
- Collaborate with the Director to efficiently manage the special education budget and optimize resource allocation, thereby maximizing student success.
Collaboration & Communication
- Act as a liaison between district staff, parents, and community organizations to foster collaboration.
- Ensure consistent communication and teamwork with interdisciplinary teams in the development and implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Compliance & Advocacy
- Ensure that programs comply with IDEA and other relevant regulations.
- Understand and uphold laws regarding students with disabilities.
Advocate for the rights and needs of students with disabilities at the district and state levels.
- Monitor the effectiveness of programs and recommend adjustments as needed.
Qualifications & Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field.
- Valid Maine Assistant Administrator of Special Education certification (035) or the ability to obtain it.
- A minimum of 3 years of experience in special education, including leadership roles, with strong knowledge of special education laws and regulations.
- Demonstrated expertise in personnel management, budgeting, and strategic planning with excellent communication and collaboration skills, and experience working with high-needs student populations, showing a strong commitment to equity.
About The Special Services Department:
The Special Services Department at Westbrook is dedicated to providing student-centered instruction that addresses the diverse needs of learners from kindergarten through high school. Our committed staff implements evidence-based literacy and mathematics programs to promote student success. We offer a variety of programming and related services across a continuum of settings to support students’ academic, social-emotional, functional, and pre-vocational development. Our collaborative, equity-focused district values innovation and maintains high expectations for both staff and students. We take pride in our strong commitment to students and families and in cultivating an inclusive environment where all learners can thrive.
About the Westbrook School Department:
Proudly serving one of the most diverse communities in the state, the Westbrook School Department is dedicated to fostering a representative and inclusive workforce in order to grow as a culturally rich and equity-focused school district. Our students are provided with a variety of opportunities to thrive in our schools. Through our student-centered programs, we meet the academic, social, emotional, and cultural needs of all learners and embrace our identity as a whole child district. Our schools serve learners in PK-high school as well as Career and Technical Education and Adult Education. We nurture a collaborative working environment and a culture of continuous growth through supportive leadership, high expectations, and opportunities for professional learning. We also offer competitive pay and generous benefits. Together we fulfill our One Promise: The best education for all, for life. We invite you to join our team!