CCSN0354601-1017
2025-09-01T00:00:00
2025-10-01T00:00:00
Located in the Capital District of upstate New York, Cohoes City School District is a small city school district with a warm, welcoming “small town” atmosphere. With a total enrollment of over 2,000 students, the mission of the district is to prepare its students for success in tomorrow's world. With the goal of immersing students in learning to become creative thinkers, life-long learners and effective problem-solvers, the ideal candidate is committed to student academic success.Please consider joining our team and explore our Employment page on the District website - https://www.cohoes.org/employment/ and follow the link to a video - "What our Faculty say about us"We are seeking highly qualified (NYS certified) applicants to apply to this vacancy –Director of Special ProgramIn carrying out this key organizational role, this position emphasizes fostering strong partnerships with schools, families, the community and external agencies to prepare students for success in tomorrow’s world with our vision of “A purpose and plan for all!” The Director will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to create nurturing, caring environments where all children can thrive. Reporting to the Superintendent, the Director will play a pivotal role in driving excellence in special education and program administration while maintaining full compliance with district, state and federal regulationsProvides vision, direction and coordination of all special programs to ensure effective delivery and continued improvement based on student needs including leadership, supervision, and professional development of staffImplement and monitor the district’s special education programs and services and collaborate with general education leadership to support inclusive practices and accommodationsWorks closely with the Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services Programs to ensure that there are strong collaborative relationships and effective communications with building and district administrators in support of principals in crisis situations involving special education studentsOversee and ensure appropriate service delivery including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy counseling and other related services Work with student support services staff to partner with principals and other school staff in working with students who experience personal, social and/or emotional issues that prevent the student from achieving in the classroom setting Collaborates with district and building administrators in setting the instructional programs for student success, partner with key stakeholders including special education staff, parents or guardians of special education and prekindergarten students; NYSED and other regional / local agencies.Participates in the development and administration of the special education department budget to support programs and services, and ensure resources are used efficiently and effectively.Coordinates the referral, evaluation, parent notification, individualized education program (IEP) development, placement of students and annual review process.Supports and Interprets all state and federal regulations, including timely and accurate completion of federal, state and district reports and grants associated with special education.Assists in the recruitment and hiring of personnel in coordination with the Superintendent and/or Assistant Superintendent and Human Resources.Leads, supports, assists, plans and delivers professional development for special education and staff to ensure that staff can meet the differentiated instructional needs of all learners.Designs, adapts and implements department procedures to ensure successful delivery of programs, ensure compliance and improve services to students. Analyze data and prepare reports to evaluate program effectiveness and compliance.Supervises Assistant Director of Special Programs, CSE chairs and Special Program clerical staff.Completes APPR observations of special education teachers and related service providers as assigned. The incumbent may act as an independent evaluator for instructional program staff as needed.Ensure maintenance of student records for accurate district billing in areas of responsibility.Oversees Medicaid program including billing. Assists and participates in district administrative meetings.Coordinates a successful Extended School Year program including the development and management of the budget.Performs other duties as assigned by the Superintendent. QualificationsNew York State Certification as a School District Leader, (SDL), OR School District Administrator, (SDA) Permanent or professional teacher certification Masters Degree in Educational Administration OR Special Education OR related field from an accredited institution. Successful administrative experience. Deep understanding of Special Education programming, federal regulations and NYS laws. Must have exceptional leadership, communications and analytical skills. Along with a cover letter and resume, please included academic transcripts, verification of NYS certification and three (3) recent letters of supervisory recommendation.
School Leader
Cohoes City School District
Capital
Contract