DIRECTOR, SPECIAL EDUCATION - BILINGUAL PREFERRED

The Orange Unified School District serves approximately 24,000 students in grades kindergarten through 12th, and encompasses all or part of the cities of Anaheim, Garden Grove, Orange, Santa Ana, and Villa Park. In 1953, the citizens of the area voted to form a “unified” school district, combining the original five elementary districts with the high school district into one unified district, now known as the Orange Unified School District. The District has a long history of excellence that continues to grow and be enriched by the accomplishments of its students, teachers, staff and community.

VISION - Our Commitment

Inspiring our learners of today to be purposeful leaders of tomorrow.

MISSION - Our Intention

In partnership with our community, we will provide a safe, equitable, and innovative culture of learning for each scholar to have a competitive EDGE as a leader.

CORE VALUES - Our Foundation

• Integrity - We embrace a culture of ethical and transparent decision making and actions.
• Equity - We promote inclusive and culturally relevant environments by supporting the social-emotional and intellectual needs of all.
• Respect - We advocate for strong, compassionate relationships that appreciate the unique qualities of our diverse community.
• Excellence - We strive for the highest standards in all endeavors by deliberately pursuing continuous growth and innovation.

DEFINITION

Under the general direction of the Chief Executive Officer of Special Education, plans, implements, supervises, coordinates, and evaluates the District’s special education programs.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The Director, Special Education operates under general direction and plays a pivotal role in managing the day-to-day operations of the District’s special education programs. This position is distinguished by its emphasis on program implementation, compliance oversight, and interdepartmental coordination rather than districtwide policy-making. While not a cabinet-level role, the Director provides significant leadership and technical expertise, supporting site administrators and special education staff, and serving as a liaison with outside agencies and SELPA partners. The position requires a strong working knowledge of special education law, procedures, and instructional practices, with the ability to execute decisions in alignment with district and SELPA goals.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Coordinates and oversees mandated special education programs for children with special needs including the conducting and/or assisting in due process hearings, mediations and resolution meetings.
• Coordinates state Quality Assurance Program (QAP) reviews, and other compliance reviews, maintains liaison with the community, other districts, and parent groups including the Special Education Community Advisory Committee, Regional Center of Orange County, California Children’s Services, etc.
• Oversees and provides guidance for all special education placements in other SELPAs, county programs or other restrictive settings.
• Coordinates the recruitment and selection and assignment of special education
• Provides overall direction and coordination efforts for the implementation of appropriate instructional programs in Special Education.
• Provides leadership related to special education issues impacting the district and represents the district at appropriate meetings and hearings.
• Coordinates efforts for the implementation of appropriate instructional programs in Special
• Provides leadership to ensure understanding of and promote the educational program objectives of the district, including but not limited to professional development.
• Works with principals and teaching staff to effect horizontal and vertical continuity and articulation of the instructional program throughout the district.
• Coordinates the development, implementation, and evaluation of curriculum and the instructional program.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Comprehensive knowledge of applicable state and federal laws, and regulations

Compliance requirements governing special education programs in California

State funding allocation methods

Current laws, regulations, policies, funding, procedures and current trends and practices as they relate to special education programs, and SELPA Governance and services.

Ability to:

Collaborate with other agencies in planning and implementing effective special education programs, including staff and parent training, within established budget constraints

Analyze complex situations and prepare response alternatives for consideration by decision-making groups

Collaborate with site principals to ensure appropriate educational modifications for disabled students

Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others in the course of assigned duties

Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with the community and all school district personnel

Establish and maintain cooperative and harmonious working relationships among multiple stakeholders

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and skill is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and skill would be:

Experience:

Three years of successful certificated special education experience and at least five years administrative experience with an emphasis on working with special needs students. Experience at the leadership or management level or experience as a special education coordinator, program specialist or principal is preferred.

Education:

Possession of a Master’s degree or higher degree in special education, educational administration, instructional supervision, curriculum, or closely related field.