Anticipated Opening Director of Special Services

Duties

Program Leadership & Administration

• Develops, implements, and evaluates the district's Special Services programs-including Special Education, Guidance, Psychology, Social Work, Health Services, ESL, and PreSchool for All-in alignment with district goals, state and federal law, and best practices.
• Provides strategic leadership to ensure continuous improvement of all special services programs, including curricular and extracurricular components.
• Oversees the assignment and effective utilization of special education teachers, PreSchool for All teachers, school psychologists, social workers, guidance staff, paraprofessionals, and related service providers.
• Supervises the PPT/IEP process, chairs meetings or collaborates with administrators as appropriate, and ensures timely and accurate implementation of all IEPs.
• Coordinates special education services with other district departments to ensure cohesive, student-centered support.

Student Services & Placement

• Serves as district liaison for students entering or exiting high school who require out-of-district day or residential placements.
• Reviews, approves, and coordinates all out-of-district placements, ensuring compliance, appropriate programming, and fiscal responsibility.
• Oversees student placement into special education programs and sections.
• Approves and maintains records for students receiving home instruction.
• Recommends and supports the development of behavioral intervention plans that are consistent with students' needs.
• Coordinates and participates in crisis intervention efforts as needed.
• Serves as the district's "Child Find" Coordinator.

Early Childhood Services

• Oversees the district's PreSchool for All program, including program compliance, curriculum alignment, and instructional quality.
• Supervises and supports PreSchool for All teachers, ensuring high-quality early childhood instruction and adherence to state program requirements.

Compliance, Records, and Legal Requirements

• Ensures accurate, confidential maintenance of student records in accordance with IDEA, Section 504, ADA, FERPA, and other applicable laws.
• Keeps district staff informed of changes in legislation, regulations, and compliance requirements related to special services.
• Maintains current knowledge of developments in special education, assessment, early childhood education, and school health services.

Budget, Grants, and Resource Management

• Prepares, administers, and monitors budgets for all special services programs.
• Reviews and approves requisitions for instructional materials, equipment, and supplies.
• Identifies and applies for grants to support district special services initiatives.

Collaboration, Communication & Community Engagement

• Meets with students, parents, and staff to address student needs and support collaborative problem-solving.
• Serves as liaison with state agencies and officials regarding legislation, programming, and compliance.
• Coordinates and participates in district committees, staff meetings, and professional development activities.
• Promotes a school environment that supports individualized instruction, collaborative curriculum development, and positive student outcomes.

Staff Supervision, Evaluation & Development

• Manages and supervises all personnel within Special Services, including recruitment, selection, training, and professional development.
• Evaluates special education teachers, PreSchool for All teachers, and paraprofessionals, providing constructive feedback, setting goals, and initiating corrective action when necessary.
• Supports district-wide curriculum development and staff development in areas related to special services.

Additional Responsibilities

• Oversees and coordinates district Gifted and Talented programs.
• Assists with transportation planning and problem-solving for students receiving special services.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Superintendent.

Qualifications

• Certification/License:
• Illinois State Certification as required for position.
• Teaching Certification in special education.
• Teaching Certification or license in special education, school psychology, or school social work preferred.
• Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.
• Education
• Masters Degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in School Administration.
• Must have Director of Special Education endorsement

Salary/Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision and Life

Regionally Competitive Salary

How to Apply

Visit our District Website at:

Link to District/Third Party Online Application Web Page

Email Address

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School District

Hazel Crest SD 152 1/2

ILearn Link

ILearn

Report Card Link

District Report Card

Job Posting Date

5/6/2026

Start Date

7/1/2026