The New Paltz Central School District seeks an accomplished Director of Pupil Personnel Services & Special Education to lead and oversee the District’s special education programs and related services The Director will be a key member of the Superintendent’s Cabinet and will report to the Deputy Superintendent of Schools.

DESIRED PROFILE:

In addition to effective leadership, classroom and/or related service experience, candidates must be well-versed in special education law and evidence-based instructional practices.  He/she must be an effective communicator – both written and oral – as well as an empathic listener, able to understand multiple perspectives and conciliate differences on behalf of student welfare and equity. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervise and evaluate special education teachers, social workers, psychologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech pathologists, assistive technology specialist, and special services paraprofessionals
• Coordinate, monitor and evaluate programs to ensure appropriate articulation and sharing of services
• Keep abreast of emerging best practices and make recommendations related to continuous improvement
• Serve as liaison and compliance officer with the state for special education and other special grant programs
• Function as advisor to staff members, students and parents on special education concerns
• Work under the direction of the superintendent to establish policies and regulations to coordinate the operation of all special education services
• Represent the Board of Education in all due process proceedings
• Provide and monitor contracted assessment and services in all related service areas (speech, hearing, visual, occupational and physical therapy counseling, special transportation, placement in other public and private facilities)
• Supervises preparation of attendance reports and similar data for reimbursement of funds
• Supervise submission of the IDEA grant
• Ensures that required annual and triennial evaluation are completed in a timely manner
• Develop and manage the Special Education budgets working closely with the superintendent
• Coordinate a PK-12 continuum of service delivery
• Coordinate Home School Instruction, Homeless Liaison, Foster Child Liaison, Staff/Student Accommodations, and Home Tutor Program.

Requirements:

• Valid New York State SDA Certificate
• At least five years of experience in public school education as a teacher, counselor, psychologist with an additional three years’ experience as a public school administrator.

Salary and Benefits:

• Annual salary commensurate with experience
• Full benefits package

Applications Must Include:

• Cover letter; to the attention of Michelle Martoni, Deputy Superintendent, New Paltz CSD
• Resume
• Three current reference letters or a college credential file
• Copy of NYSED Certification(s)
• Copies of College Transcripts
• Writing Sample. Please upload answers to the following questions:

1. Describe personal or professional experiences that you have utilized in a professional or organizational setting to address racism and inclusion.
2. What is your sense of the complexities and challenges related to social justice and multiculturalism in a classroom and school setting?
3. Our district is in the process of implementing an Action Plan to address Racial Equity. Part of creating a culturally responsive environment requires staff to identify acts of racism including microagressions. Please highlight any experience and professional development you have that would help the district achieve this goal.