Position Summary and Responsibilities
Pennwood Cyber Charter School seeks a dynamic, experienced Assistant Director of Special Populations to support the leadership, coordination, and oversight of programs and services for students with disabilities and other specialized needs. Reporting to the Director of Special Education, this position plays a key role in ensuring high-quality instruction, compliance, and equitable access to education for all students across Pennsylvania.
The Assistant Director collaborates closely with teachers, families, administrators, and community partners to build inclusive practices and maintain compliance with federal and state regulations. This role requires strong leadership, effective communication, and a deep understanding of special education frameworks. Travel across Pennsylvania is required to support staff, families, testing, and school events, and may occasionally include overnight stays.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide leadership in planning, developing, and implementing programs and services for special populations.
- Ensure compliance with IDEA, Chapter 14, Section 504, and other applicable federal and state regulations.
- Oversee the implementation and fidelity of specially designed instruction (SDI).
- Supervise and support teachers and related service staff serving special populations, including coaching and professional development.
- Monitor student progress toward IEP goals and ensure accurate documentation of the services provided.
- Collaborate with the Director of Special Education on departmental initiatives, audits, state reporting, and family engagement.
- Conduct instructional observations and provide actionable feedback to support evidence-based practices.
- Support the development of interventions addressing academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.
- Assist with enrollment and placement processes to ensure appropriate supports and services are in place.
- Partner with student services team members, school leaders, colleagues, and families to resolve concerns related to student services.
- Contribute to budget planning and resource allocation for special populations programming.
- Participate in leadership meetings and schoolwide strategic planning.
- Support hiring, onboarding, and mentoring of special populations staff.
- Provide and facilitate professional learning opportunities to build staff capacity.
- Assist with preparation for state assessments, including coordination of accommodations and adaptations.
- Promote a culture of inclusion, equity, and advocacy for all students.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental and schoolwide goals.
- Qualifications
Education & Licensure
- An advanced degree in education, special education, or a related field is required.
- Valid Pennsylvania certification as Supervisor of Special Education, Principal, Superintendent, or Assistant Superintendent.
Experience
- Minimum of 3–5 years of leadership or supervisory experience in special education or related areas.
- Demonstrated success managing staff and programs serving students with disabilities and specialized needs.
- Comprehensive understanding of multi-categorical disabilities, inclusive practices, and alternative pathways.
- Proven experience with IEP and 504 plan development, implementation, and compliance monitoring.
Skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Effective leadership, coaching, and collaboration abilities.
- Proficiency in analyzing and applying data to guide decisions.
- High attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and special education data systems.
Residency Requirement
- Must reside within the state of Pennsylvania.
Additional Requirements
- Travel throughout Pennsylvania for staff support, testing, and school events (may include overnight stays).
- Occasional evening hours may be required to support staff, students, or families.
- Two-step authentication is required for system access upon hire.
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
Similar Jobs
What We Do
Connections Academy is a tuition-free, fully accredited public education program for students in grades K–12. The company’s program provides a quality curriculum and exceptional state-certified teachers to families seeking a flexible but structured alternative to traditional education.
