Special Education Department Head: Out-of-District Placements MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Out-of-District Program Oversight * Serve as the administrative representative for Stratford Public Schools at all out-of-district Planning and Placement Team (PPT) and 504 meetings.
* Ensure PPT and 504 processes are compliant, student-centered, and aligned with district expectations and state/federal regulations.
* Act as the primary point of contact for parents/families of students placed in out-of-district programs, ensuring consistent communication and responsive support.
* Coordinate and monitor all referrals to out-of-district programs, including gathering documentation, facilitating communication with receiving programs, and preparing district leadership for decision-making.
* Maintain ongoing collaboration with out-of-district schools and service providers to ensure high-quality programming, progress monitoring, and alignment with IEP goals.
PPT Coordination & Case Management * Facilitate and manage all PPT and 504 meetings for students in out-of-district placements, including scheduling, preparing agendas, and ensuring appropriate team participation.
* Maintain accurate and timely documentation of decisions, service changes, and follow-up actions.
* Support teams in developing appropriate services, goals, and transition plans for students placed outside the district.
District Collaboration & Systems Support * Consult with building teams and district leadership regarding placement decisions, student transitions, and programmatic needs.
* Participate in multidisciplinary conversations to support equitable, high-quality services for students with significant needs.
* Contribute to district-level discussions about programming, service delivery, and opportunities to strengthen in-district supports.
Professional Learning & Compliance * Maintain up-to-date knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, Connecticut special education regulations, and out-of-district placement requirements.
* Provide professional development to staff related to out-of-district processes, compliance expectations, family communication, and best practices for supporting high-needs learners.
* Foster a climate of trust, collaboration, and respect with staff, families, and partnering programs.
* Demonstrate strong collaboration and mediation skills when working with staff and parents.
Other Responsibilities * Perform all other duties as assigned or required by the Supervisor or designee.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS * Connecticut Intermediate Administrator Certificate (092). * Current Connecticut certification in special education or a related pupil services field (e.g., social work, school psychology). * Master's Degree in Special Education or related field; graduate-level study in special education required.
* Successful special education teaching experience or related professional experience working with students with disabilities.
* Strong knowledge of special education law, PPT and 504 processes, and out-of-district placement procedures.
* Demonstrated ability to facilitate meetings, collaborate across teams, and communicate effectively with families.
* Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to navigate complex cases.
* Ability to work cooperatively with staff and exercise leadership in supporting high-quality programming.
* Excellent written and oral communication skills.
* High standards of ethics, integrity, and professionalism.
* Strong organizational skills and a commitment to meeting timelines.
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