Director of Student Services

Norfolk Elementary Schools
Norfolk, MA 

Title: Director of Student Services

Broad job function:  The Director of Student Support Services oversees the leadership, supervision, and operational management of the Special Education Department, English Learner (EL) Department, and District 504 Coordination.  The Director is responsible for ensuring that all students receive high-quality, inclusive, and compliant support services. In addition, the Director serves as a vital bridge between central administration, building principals, families, and the Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC).

Qualifications
Education: Master’s Degree in Education with a concentration in Educational Leadership, Administration and Supervision (or equivalent).
Certification: Valid Massachusetts licensure as a Special Education Administrator.

Experience: Minimum of five years of successful teaching experience (Elementary level preferred).

Skills: Expert knowledge of state/federal special education laws, grant management (IDEA), and data-driven program improvement.

Authority: Reports to the Superintendent of Schools

Work Year: 220 Days

Professional Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategic Planning
Oversees the daily operations of Special Education, EL, and 504 departments.
Develops and monitors district-wide procedures for referral, evaluation, and placement (including Out-of-District).
Fosters a culture of high expectations and data-based program improvement.
Directs the district’s teams in BSEA mediation or hearing processes.

Staff Supervision & Evaluation
Recruits, recommends, and evaluates special education and student services personnel.
Supervises Team Chairpersons, clerical staff, and related service providers (SLPs, OTs/PTs, School Psychologists, BCBA’s and Social Workers).
Designs and implements professional development programs for specialized staff.

Compliance & Fiscal Management
Ensures all IEPs and 504 plans are technically accurate, compliant, and of high quality. Reviews and signs all IEP’s from the district and out of district placements.
Manages the annual Student Services budget, including tuition projections and contracted services.
Oversees grant applications (IDEA 240/262) and complete annual Circuit Breaker submissions.
Supervises departmental practices to ensure full compliance with federal and state regulations (Integrated Monitoring Review (IMR) reviews).
Oversees physical restraint training schedule for initial and recertification for staff and trainers.

Instruction & Student Advocacy
Collaborates with the Director of Curriculum to adapt learning materials and teaching strategies responsive to diverse learning styles.
Promotes research-based instructional methodologies and positive behavioral interventions.
Coordinates “Child Find” activities, including Pre-K/Kindergarten screenings and Preschool Programming, and community outreach.
Oversees the district’s English Learner (EL) programming and state testing mandates.

Community & Collaborative Relations
Serves as the primary liaison to SEPAC through monthly meetings and public training sessions.
Represents the district on the Bi-County Collaborative (BICO) Operating Committee.
Coordinates specialized transportation, home/hospital tutoring, and home-based instructional services

Evaluation:  Evaluation to be performed annually in accordance with the guidelines established by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Salary Range: $130,000 – $145,000 salary commensurate with experience