A Special Education Teacher teaches students who have disabilities, and adapts teaching methods to meet the needs of students. Assesses students and helps to develop individualized education plans that specify the services and accommodations needed for each student. Works in a classroom that includes only students with IEPs, or works with students and teachers in regular classes. For students with severe disabilities, may focus on developing skills for independent living. Works as part of a team that includes therapists, school counselors or social workers.
Position Summary Aspire Trade High School is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and compliance-driven Director of Exceptional Children (EC) to lead and oversee all special education services. The EC Director ensures that the school delivers high-quality, legally compliant programming for students with disabilities while supporting staff, strengthening systems, and fostering an inclusive school culture. This role is both instructional and operational , requiring a leader who can manage compliance, coach staff, partner with families, and continuously improve student outcomes. Key Responsibilities Program Leadership & Compliance Ensure full compliance with IDEA, Section 504, state EC policies, and charter requirements Oversee development, implementation, and monitoring of IEPs, 504 Plans, and related services Serve as the school's EC compliance expert and primary liaison for audits, monitoring, and reporting Maintain accurate EC records, timelines, and documentation Staff Leadership & Development Supervise, support, and evaluate EC teachers and related service providers Provide coaching on instructional strategies, differentiation, and behavior supports Lead EC-related professional development for staff Support general education teachers in inclusive practices and accommodations Student Services & Instructional Support Ensure appropriate service delivery models (inclusion, resource, self-contained) Monitor student progress and use data to drive instructional decisions Oversee evaluations, re-evaluations, and eligibility determinations Collaboration & Family Engagement Facilitate IEP meetings and ensure strong family communication and engagement Partner with school leadership to align EC programming with overall school goals Collaborate with outside agencies, service providers, and district/authorizer representatives Operations & Systems Management Manage EC budgets, staffing allocations, and service contracts Develop and refine internal systems to ensure efficiency and compliance Support enrollment processes related to students with disabilities Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field (Master's degree preferred) Valid NC licensure in Exceptional Children / Special Education Minimum of 5 years of experience in special education, with leadership experience preferred Deep knowledge of
IDEA, IEP
processes, 504s, and compliance requirements Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills Excellent communication and ability to navigate complex situations with professionalism Preferred Qualifications Previous experience in a charter school setting Administrative or EC Director certification Experience managing audits, compliance reviews, or corrective action plans Background in building or improving EC programs and systems
Benefits:
Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance Application Question(s): Are you fully licensed with at least 2 years of EC experience?