A Director of Instruction works in a public school district to coordinate curriculum and teaching practices. Seeks to unify teaching practices and development a public understanding of the goals of the school, and the appropriate teaching content and methods.
The Director of the Options Program is responsible for the leadership, administration, and growth of the school's inclusive education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Grounded in the Catholic mission of recognizing the inherent dignity of every person, the Director ensures that students in the program are fully integrated into the spiritual, academic, and social life of the school. The Director manages individualized curriculum modifications, supervises program staff, and serves as the primary liaison between families, faculty, and the administration. Essential Responsibilities 1.
Program Leadership & Vision Mission Integration:
Ensure the program reflects the school's Catholic identity by fostering a community of belonging where every student is valued as a gift from God.
Strategic Growth:
Lead the recruitment and admissions process for the program, collaborating with the Admissions Office to identify and assess prospective students.
Advocacy:
Serve as a champion for inclusive practices within the school, educating faculty, staff, and the student body on the value of a diverse learning environment. 2.
Oversee the development and implementation of Student Learning Plans for all enrolled students.
Curriculum Modification:
Work with general education teachers to modify grade-level texts, assignments, and assessments to meet the functional and academic levels of program students.
Direct Instruction:
Teach specialized small-group classes (e.g., functional literacy, math, life skills, or "Resource" periods) and provide 1:1 support when necessary.
Transition Planning:
Partner with college counseling and families to develop post-secondary pathways, including vocational training, certificate programs, or inclusive college programs. 3.
Collaboration & Coordination Faculty Support:
Provide ongoing professional development and coaching for general education teachers on differentiation and inclusive classroom management.
Peer Mentoring:
Oversee a "Peer Mentor" or "Best Buddies" program, training general education students to support their peers academically and socially.
Case Management:
Maintain regular communication with parents, therapists, and external service providers to ensure a holistic approach to student development. 4.
Facilitate student participation in sports, clubs, retreats, and performing arts, ensuring proper accommodations are in place for full engagement.
Social/Emotional Development:
Monitor the social well-being of students, implementing social skills training and self-advocacy coaching.
Independence Skills:
Coordinate "life skills" training, which may include budgeting, time management, and travel training.
Qualifications Education:
Master's degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field (highly preferred).
Experience:
Minimum of 5 years of experience in special education, specifically working with students with intellectual disabilities. Previous experience in a Catholic or private school setting is a plus.
Skills:
Expertise in curriculum modification and differentiated instruction. Exceptional communication and "soft skills" for navigating complex parent and faculty dynamics. Strong organizational skills for managing documentation, and schedules Physical & Professional Requirements Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive student data with integrity. Willingness to attend school events, open houses, and retreats. Must complete all required Archdiocesan background checks and child protection training (e.g., VIRTUS). Key Characteristics for Success in This Role Unlike a standard "Learning Support" role that focuses on accommodations (extra time, quiet rooms), this Director must be comfortable with modifications (changing the actual content of the work). The ideal candidate is a "builder" who creates an environment of inclusion that enriches the entire school community, not just the students receiving the services.
