Director of Special Services

The Westbrook School Department seeks a dymanic and experienced Director of Special Services to lead and oversee the district's complex special education programs. The ideal candidate will understand the needs of a diverse student population, including high-needs students, and ensure equitable, effective educational opportunities. This role requires strong leadership in the following capacities:

Program Development and Evaluation
* Develop and oversee special education programs, ensuring compliance with all regulations.
* Advocate for inclusive policies and equitable access to resources.
* Conduct needs assessments and strategic planning to enhance services.

Data and Performance Management
* Meticulous record keeping
* Knowledge of and clarity with IEP development 

Personnel Management & Hiring
* Recruit, train, and evaluate special education staff, including therapists, clinical psycologicakl services staff, and social workers
* Provide professional development and mentorship.
* Foster a supportive and collaborative work environment

Budgeting & Resource Allocation
* Develop and manage the special education budget efficiently.
* Optimize resources to support student success

Collaboration & Communication
* Serves as the liaison between the district, parents, and community organizations.
* Ensure clear, consistent communication with stakeholders.
* Work with teams to develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Compliance & Advocacy
* Ensure programs comply with IDEA and other regulations.
* Understand laws pertaining to students with disabilities
* Advocate for students with disabilities at district and state levels.
* Monitor program effectiveness and adjust as needed.

Qualifications & Requirements
* Master's degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field.
* Valid Maine administrative certification 030 Administrator of Specila Education, or ability to obtain.
* Minimum of seven years of special education experience, including leadership roles.
* Strong knowledge of special education laws and regulations.
* Expertise in personnel management, budgeting, and strategic planning.
* Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
* Experience working with high-needs populations and advocating for equity.

Westbrook's Special Services Department provides student-centered instruction to support the diverse learning needs of students districtwide, in grades kindergarten through high school. Our innovative and dedicated staff employ evidence based literacy and mathematics programs to promote student success. We offer programming and a variety of related services across a continuum of settings. These programs foster a learning community that supports student’s academic, social-emotional, functional, and pre-vocational needs. Our Special Services Department offers a collaborative work environment that sets high expectations for our staff and students. Our commitment to students and families is unsurpassed. Our culturally rich and equity focused district fosters an environment where staff and students work together to fulfill our goals.

About the District

Proudly serving one of the most diverse communities in the state, the Westbrook School Department is dedicated to fostering a representative and inclusive workforce to grow as a culturally rich and equity-focused school district. Our students are offered a variety of opportunities to thrive in our schools. Through our student-centered programs, we address all learners' academic, social, emotional, and cultural needs and embrace our identity as a whole child district. Our schools serve learners from PK to high school, providing career and technical education and adult education. We cultivate a collaborative working environment and a culture of continuous growth through supportive leadership, high expectations, and opportunities for professional learning. We also offer competitive pay and generous benefits.

Together, we fulfill our One Promise: the best education for all, for life. We invite you to join our team!