Director of Special Education and Pupil Services - Vacancy ID: 254382

The Berlin Area School District is looking for an experienced and effective leader to work closely with the Superintendent and administrative team for the purpose of improving student outcomes and ensuring every student is successful. The Director of Special Education and Pupil Services will oversee all programs and services for students with disabilities, including special education service delivery, pupil services, school counseling, school nursing, ESL, and alternative educational services.

The Director of Special Education and Pupil Services directly oversees or assists school principals in supervising all Special Education and pupil services staff. The position is responsible for the planning, delivery, assessment, and ongoing improvement of all programs under their direction. 

The qualified candidate will support a shared vision that all students are loved, belong, included, and can reach their full potential. The ideal candidate must be a strong communicator with the ability to foster relationships with students, staff, parents, and the community to provide an ideal learning environment for all students.

The Berlin Area School District is composed of three schools, all located on one campus. Clay Lamberton Elementary (4K-5) has a total enrollment of 400 students. Berlin Middle School (6-8) has an enrollment of 260 students, and Berlin High School (9-12) has approximately 430 students. Together they serve as a hub of activity for the greater Berlin community. The Berlin Area School District is composed of 14 municipalities, with the City of Berlin at the center. The City of Berlin is a rural town community with a population of 5,500 located approximately 20 minutes west of Oshkosh, 10 minutes north of Green Lake, and 15 minutes northwest of Ripon. The Fox River runs through the center of the historic downtown. Agriculture, health services, light industry and retail comprise Berlin’s economy.

The Berlin Area School District, in conjunction with the surrounding community, proudly acknowledges its rich history and confidently focuses on an even brighter future. Like many other school districts, Berlin is navigating the challenges of declining enrollment, evolving demographics, and the dynamics of a rural environment. Despite the realities of these factors, the District remains undeterred and committed to continuous improvement on behalf of all students.

The Superintendent is actively seeking a Director of Special Education and Pupil Services who is both experienced and enthusiastic about driving positive change. This role presents a unique opportunity to collaborate with a dedicated administrative team focused on advancing the District’s mission to ensure success for every student.

The ideal candidate for this position must be able to demonstrate proven leadership action with deliverables and evidence in the following areas:

• Planning, developing, and implementing Special Education programs to ensure quality and legal compliance. 

• Leading and evaluating literacy and math instruction for students with disabilities.

• Overseeing and supporting positive and proactive behavior and social emotional programs across all three schools.

• Directing the development and implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in a manner consistent with legal requirements.

• Ensuring compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, overseeing plan development, and implementation.

• Managing threat assessments and assists principals with safety related plans for students. 

• Serving as the Homeless Liaison and ensures compliance and support related to students experiencing homelessness.

• Overseeing all non-violent crisis intervention training and compliance for staff members.

• Serving as the acting Title IX coordinator and assists in conducting investigations.

• Conducting student investigations as directed by the Superintendent in various student matters. 

• Monitoring and supporting school level Student Support Teams.

• Coordinating all Child Find activities and coordination with Birth to Three services.

• Assisting in overseeing attendance activities across the district.

• Assisting in overseeing centralized district registration systems and enrollment.

• Facilitating and supporting parent and staff meetings to ensure all stakeholders are working collaboratively on behalf of students. 

• Effectively handles complaint and conflict resolution.

• Providing leadership and direction for all Special Education and Pupil Services staff, including teachers, paraprofessionals, counselors, psychologists, and school nursing staff. 

• Assisting the Director of Business Services in developing all budgets and financial matters related to Special Education and Pupil Services. 

• Building and maintaining effective relationships with community partners, including the Boys and Girls Club, private schools, and specialized service providers. 

• Performing other duties as assigned by the Superintendent.

Salary, benefits, and length of contract:  This position works a 260-day contract with a regionally competitive salary and an excellent benefits package.  

How to apply:  Apply by completing the WECAN application, attaching an updated cover letter and resume, and providing three (3) letters of recommendation no more than two years old.  Copies of transcripts and licenses will be required prior to employment.

The Berlin Area School District is an equal opportunity employer and encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.