Location: Rockville,MD, USA
SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION: Leads and manages large broad-based multi-sectioned office responsible for special education instruction and student support services and work related to well-being, learning and achievement; plans, organizes, supervises, and evaluates all activities, program functions, personnel, and physical, and fiscal resources of the assigned office; is responsible and accountable for strategic planning and outcomes. Promotes and maintains a focus on raising student achievement, closing achievement gaps, and school improvement; implements the district's Strategic Plan and its elements into the organization's culture; supports equitable opportunities for all students; leads cross- departmental efforts to ensure that innovative and instructional practices are aligned with the Strategic Plan and executed with fidelity; works closely with the system leaders to ensure that initiative timelines are developed, executed, and maintained.
CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: Must meet Maryland State certification requirements for Administrator I and II. Superintendent licensure or certification preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) policies, regulations, and procedures; the student services bylaw as well as federal and state legislation relating to the provision of student services and family engagement. Knowledge of the principles, practices, methods, and current trends of school administration and in the field of special education and student support services. Knowledge of the procedures and practices related to student support services the educational specialties in the special education office. Thorough knowledge of IDEA and the principles, practices, methods, and current trends of school administration as applied to special education programs and student support services. Knowledge of the Section 504 to ensure services for Section 504 Students. Familiarity with applicable regulations, legislations, and policies. Ability to manage fiscal, physical, and human resources to successfully carry out the function and programs of the office. Proficiency in the use of technology and data compilation, analysis, and reporting. Ability to supervise, evaluate, and lead. Ability to establish and maintain collaborative working relationships with personnel assigned to schools, other departments, public entities, families, and citizens. Ability to facilitate meetings and/or present information to groups, including the School Board. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE: Master's degree required in educational leadership, special education and/or psychology. Doctorate preferred. Eight (8) years of experience in the planning, development, and implementation of programs and services in special education and student support services; experience working with parents/guardians and community groups; knowledge of in legal issues related to special education, student support services, and Section 504. Five years of successful teaching or related experience in counseling, pupil personnel work, social work, psychology, family engagement or school health. Five years of administrator experience required; at least three years as a school-based administrator is strongly preferred. Practical knowledge of planning and implementing specially-designed instruction preferred. Advanced degree(s) beyond the minimum degree requirement in a relevant field may be considered for some experience. Successful experience as a principal preferred. Experience as a school-based administrator preferred and/or prior experience as a director of special education.