HWMN0368469-1017
2026-07-01T00:00:00
2026-03-06T00:00:00
Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools, one of the leading school districts on Long Island, seeks an exceptional, experienced, visionary educational leader to serve as Director of Special Education and Student Support ServicesPosition OverviewThe Director of Special Education and Student Support Services leads the strategic design, implementation, and continuous improvement of special education and student support programs CPSE to Age 22. This role ensures compliance with federal and state mandates while promoting academic excellence and social-emotional growth for students with diverse learning needs. Responsibilities include overseeing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), managing compliance, and fostering an inclusive culture. Collaboration with school leaders, teachers, families, and external agencies is essential for achieving student-centered goals and college readiness. This appointment is a full-time, 12-month position.Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Development and Instructional LeadershipDesign and implement PreK-12 special education programs for various disabilities, inclusive of specialized reading and math instruction.Develop a continuum of services, ensuring alignment with New York State Learning Standards.Lead curriculum modifications and instructional accommodations for diverse learners.Promote Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and evidence-based instructional practices.Establish systems for progress monitoring and data-driven decision-making.Create inclusive environments for meaningful participation in all school activities.Oversee the development and implementation of life skills programs, work study programs and courses that support the district’s portrait of a graduateIEP Development, Compliance, and Legal OversightSupervise IEP development CPSE-age 22, ensuring compliance with IDEA and New York State regulations.Serve as the LEA representative at CSE, CPSE and manifestation meetings PK-12.Oversee parental requests and concerns and coordinate due process procedures.Maintain knowledge of special education laws, 504, ADA, FERPA and monitor fidelity in IEP implementation.Prepare reports for NYSED and develop procedural safeguards for parents.Oversee NYSAA eligibility, training of staff, and assessments.Ensure timely completion of all special education department evaluations, eligibility determinations, annual reviews, reevaluations, and transition assessments in accordance with federal IDEA regulations and New York State Education Law.Teacher Development and Staff SupervisionRecruit and hire special education staff.Supervise and evaluate all assistant directors. Provide professional development on evidence-based practices and legal compliance.Conduct classroom observations with targeted feedback for instructional improvement.Train general education teachers on accommodating students with disabilities.Support Assistant Directors in leading department meetings, present at faculty meetings, and recruit and provide professional development opportunities for all special education staff on superintendent conference days.Supervision of nurses PK-12, ensuring compliance with NYS health regulations, immunizations and all other related documentation.Data Analysis and Student Outcomes ManagementLead data analysis meetings to inform instructional planning.Track student progress and prepare reports on program effectiveness and compliance.Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations on student outcomes, program effectiveness, and compliance status for school leadership, board of education, and external stakeholders. Monitor disproportionality in special education identification, disciplinary actions, and restrictive placements, implementing corrective action plans when necessary for CPSE-age 22. Coordinate participation in state assessments and ensure appropriate testing accommodations and alternate assessment options (NYSAA) are provided.Manage NYSAA testing district-wide, ensure staff are trained and updated on NYSAA procedures and assessment practices.Attend and participate in Board of Education meetings, special education events, SEPTA, and various district run activities. Related Services and Support CoordinationDevelop community partnerships for wraparound services and coordinate crisis intervention protocols through affiliations such as Northwell, Sagamore, and Cohen’s Children’s Hospital.Coordinate with building teams, assistant directors, and building administration on crisis intervention protocols, behavioral emergency procedures, and safety plans for students with significant emotional or behavioral needs.Coordinate with school nurses, social workers, psychologists, and counselors to address students' health, mental health, and social-emotional needs.Oversee the implementation and coordination with Northwell services including psychiatric services. Coordinate services for students that are placed on home instruction and home schooled.Provide guidance to alternate education personnel regarding eligibility, compliance and services.Transition Services and Post-Secondary PlanningLead transition services for students ages 14-22, including vocational training and community integration.Support pathways for students to earn diplomas and credentials.Oversee the transition Director and their management of transition assessments, career interest inventories, and functional skill evaluations to inform age-appropriate transition IEP goals.Oversee Extended School Year (ESY) programs and service recommendations to prevent substantial regression for eligible students during summer months.Family Engagement and CommunicationFoster collaborative partnerships with families, ensuring meaningful participation in the IEP process.Provide parent training workshops on disability specific information, special education continuum and rights as well as advocacy skills.Partner with Special Education Parent and Teacher Association (SEPTA), support families, gather feedback, address concerns, and promote family-school collaboration.Strategic Planning and School-Wide LeadershipContribute to strategic planning and budget development for special education.Collaborate with district directors/leaders to create integrated support systems.Collaborate with building principals regarding special education and student support matters and provide guidance on discipline practices and suspensions for students CPSE to age 22.Participate in school safety planning, emergency preparedness protocols, threat assessment teams and provide guidance to crisis response teams.Compliance Monitoring and Quality AssuranceConduct compliance audits to ensure adherence to special education regulations.Maintain accurate special education records and coordinate monitoring activities.Coordinate internal and external monitoring activities including state-mandated reviews, cyclical monitoring visits, and focused compliance reviews.QualificationsRequiredMaster’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field.Valid New York State School Administrator/Supervisor (SAS) or School District Administrator (SDA) certification.Minimum 5 years of experience in special education settings and 3 years in leadership roles.Comprehensive knowledge of federal IDEA regulations, New York State Education Law Article 89, Section 504, ADA, and special education procedural requirements.Strong expertise in IEP development, eligibility determination, manifestation determinations, due process procedures, and compliance monitoring.Strong communication and data analysis skills.PreferredDoctoral degree in relevant fields and additional certifications.Background in special education law and experience in diverse educational settings.Familiarity with evidence-based interventions and assistive technology.Core CompetenciesLegal Expertise: Understanding of special education law and procedural compliance.Data-Driven Decision Making: Analyzing data for instructional improvements.Collaborative Leadership: Building relationships with stakeholders for shared goals.Equity and Inclusion: Promoting access and high expectations for all students.Communication and Advocacy: Clear communication of complex concepts and effective conflict resolution.Instructional Excellence: Knowledge of teaching practices for diverse learners.Cultural Competence: Working effectively with diverse backgrounds.Integrity and Professionalism: Commitment to ethical standards and continuous learning.**Attend Monthly Board of Education (BOE) meetings and provide support, information, and follow-up actions as needed.**Perform additional duties as assigned by the Superintendent, including responsibilities deemed necessary to meet district priorities and operational needs.
School Leader
Hewlett-Woodmere UFSD
Long Island
Annual wage
Fixed