Director of Specialized Services

Description

About Us 

Founded in 1964 by J. Arthur Trudeau and his wife Evelyn, the programs and supports made available throughout the years were predicated on his belief that individuals with disabilities should enjoy a full range of activities and life experiences.  

For over 60 years, The J. Arthur Trudeau Memorial Center has served as the area’s leading provider of services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Trudeau is one of the few human service organizations serving individuals at all life stages people throughout Rhode Island and surrounding areas in Massachusetts and Connecticut. 

Our employees are committed to assisting individuals and family members to create paths that build self-esteem, self-determination and the pursuit and enjoyment of life's activities. 

Our Mission 

The Trudeau Center provides high quality, comprehensive person-centered services for the people we support and their families. We encourage all people to achieve their full potential and to live their dreams. Through inclusive, evidence-based practices we ensure compassion, dignity, and respect with the assistance of caring and dedicated staff members. 

The Role 

The Director of Specialized Services is responsible for the financial growth of Pathways and the development of specialized services within the Pathways Strategic Teaching Center (PSTC) of the Trudeau Center. This position reports directly to the Vice President of Children’s Services.  

Key Responsibilities and Essential Duties: 

PROGRAM LEADERSHIP 

• Responsible for the overall organization and administration of student services, including foundations of special education and related services 
• Co-lead program operational management and service success alongside the Clinical Director 
• Direct and guide decision-making for all specialized services; including student educational curriculum, special education (IEP/504 service application, speech language pathology, physical therapy, social worker, etc. 
• Work collaboratively with program leadership to ensure programmatic efficiency and effectiveness 
• Coordinate with consulting teachers, procedures and programming regarding placement and maintenance of eligible special education students, based on their individualized needs 
• Oversee curriculum development alongside Assist. Director; integration of technology, delivery, and assessment as related to special education and specialized services 
• Oversee the implementation and observance of all programmatic policies and state and federal regulations that relate to Pathways 
• Attend meetings and serve as a representative of Pathways 
• Develop and manage fiscal plans for specialized programs, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to meet the needs of students 
• Assist with program evaluation, data management, reporting and compliance (within RIDE and Districts), and make recommendations for program improvements 
• Communicate key information on programs and services to school personnel, parents, and others 
• Maintain positive communication with parents/guardians, agency representatives, administration and colleagues 
• Facilitate opportunities for training and consultation to local educational agencies and families, as directed 
• Coordinate the implementation of inclusion activities in public schools and other school site 
• Respond to crisis situations as needed and assist staff in implementing crisis management procedures 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Evaluate and provide professional development to Assistant Director of Special Education, and conduct employee performance evaluations and performance improvement plans, as needed 
• Foster and maintain professional realationships and partnerships with RI districts, schools and leaders 
• Recruit, build and maintain student census to meet programmatic goals and initiatives 

Other duties as assigned 

Experience and Expertise 

• Master’s degree in special education, social worker or other related degree program 
• Ability to achieve/maintain Administrative Certification for Special Education with the RI Department of Education.  
• Ability to achieve/maintain certification in program-approved crisis management system 
• Minimum of three years of professional education experience in teaching Special Education, as a Speech and Language Pathologist, School Social Worker and/or School Psychologist 
• Demonstrated experience with case management and student/family support 
• Able to pass agency background check requirements 

Competency Requirements 

• Proficient in Microsoft Suite (e.g. Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Teams). 
• Demonstrated knowledge of special education regulations related to 504 and IEP services under the IDEA 
• Grant and contractual tuition management 
• Skills in effective communication with parents and community-based officials 
• Experience developing individual child curriculum  
• Understanding of behavior analytic teaching practices and behavioral/educational measurement 

Work Location and Conditions 

This position is located at:  Pathways Strategic Teaching Center - 75 Centre of New England Blvd, Coventry, RI 02816 

The standard work hours for this position:  M-F, 8:00A – 4:00P, EST 

Except in unique circumstances, employees complete work in-person, at their designated job site. Office settings may include direct interaction with students, participants and team members. Daily use of computers, phones, and office technology may be required. Work may extend into public school and/or community settings, requiring travel between locations. 

Must be able to work in an intense, fast paced environment. Must be able to work with children in such a way as involves physical contact (particularly when there is a child safety need). Rapid movement (sometimes running) to address safety needs of the children and staff may be required.  

Compensation and Benefits: 

• Base Wage: TBD  
• FLSA: Exempt 
• Bargaining Unit: No 
• Benefit Eligible: Yes 
• Pay Schedule: Bi-weekly