The Department Lead for Exceptional Student Services is a key role at WAC and the individual who fills this position is responsible for the direction and management of WACs Special Education services and compliance. This position acts as the liaison between WAC and CDE on SpEd related issues and compliance and will provide professional development and guidance to the SpEd staff. This position works closely with the WAC Special Education team and reports to the Director of Student Support Services.
Roles
This position is accountable for performing the following functions:
1) Coordination and Oversight of WAC’s Special Education Program
- In conjunction with school administration, supervise and evaluate all Special Education staff and programs.
- Communicate with parents regarding Special Education services and questions.
- LMA (Lead, Manage, and hold Accountable) WAC Special Education employees.
- Provide annual reviews and feedback to all WAC Special Education employees.
- Hire, train, and support WAC Paraprofessionals
- Development of WAC Transition Program.
- Secure and schedule related service providers for the WAC students’ IEP needs and ensure delivery of these including:
Speech-language therapy
Occupational and physical therapy
Counseling
Adaptive physical education (accommodations for gym class)
Early identification and screening.
School health services
Social work
- Offer advice for WAC’s Special Education budget.
- Work with the Director of Student Support Services to recommend and advise budgetary needs.
- Request purchases for SpEd department curriculum, equipment and supplies.
2) Special Education Compliance and Reporting
- Interpret and implement all state and federal Special Education requirements and mandates to ensure compliance.
- Oversee and submit Special Education reports.
- Represent Williamsburg Academy of Colorado at any needed Special Education meetings as needed
- Stay current on all changes and updates to Special Education policies and best practices.
- Delegate proportionate case management to Special Education mentors.
- Maintain oversight of student Special Education files.
- Ensure and verify that all student files are kept up to date and in compliance.
3) Oversight of IEP Meetings and Serve as LEA Representative
- Maintain oversight of the scheduling and running of all IEP meetings.
- Maintain oversight of all IEP meeting notifications and paperwork.
- Coordinate with Mentors and WAC administrators on their responsibilities and SpEd staff needs.
4) Provide Special Education Professional Development
Provide professional development training and guidance opportunities for WAC Special Education staff, mentors, and parents as needed.
Collaborate with MTSS Coordinator on Child Find and MTSS information to mentors and staff.
5) L10 Meetings
- The WAC Department Lead for Exceptional Student Services is responsible for attending and running the SpEd L10 meeting.
6) Other Duties as Assigned
- Attend all required meetings
- Assist with student statewide assessments, as needed
Minimum QualificationsCertified as a Colorado Special Education teacherFive years experience in the field of Special EducationA proven working experience with staff, students and their familiesIntegrity, professionalism, and sound judgmentAdvocacy skills and the ability to work with other staff members to achieve the Special Education vision for Williamsburg Academy of ColoradoAbility to respond effectively to the needs of diverse students and familiesExcellent interpersonal and communication skillsHigh degree of flexibility with an aggressive growth mindset
Preferred QualificationsMasters Degree in Special Education preferredExperience in delivering online Special Education services preferred
