DESCRIPTION:  The Spring Lake Park School District is a suburban Minneapolis system of approximately 5,300 students comprising the communities of Blaine, Fridley, and Spring Lake Park.  The District is seeking a dynamic and dedicated educational leader who will work in partnership with district and school leaders to provide leadership and vision in the area of special education, including: directing the day-to-day operations; monitoring student continuous progress; serving as an advocate for the students and parents; understanding and implementing processes and practices in compliance with state and federal laws; and managing services with other agencies.

REQUIREMENTS:  Master's Degree required, specialist or doctorate preferred. The ability to obtain a Director of Special Education license through the State of Minnesota and certification in multiple special education licensure areas.  Three years administrative or supervisory experience preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS: The successful Special Education Director will be an individual who… 

… firmly believes: 

-  all students can learn and that their learning can be directly influenced by focusing on factors over which we have control 

-  that student learning guides practice and decision-making throughout the school and system 

-  in the need, and has demonstrated the ability, to work interdependently, across schools and departments

-  in the need, and has demonstrated the ability, to foster a commitment among staff and parent communities to creating the conditions of equity and excellence. 

… has demonstrated: 

-  successful experience in implementing practices consistent with a high functioning special education program, with a focus on personalized learning, systems of intervention (RtI), professional learning communities, assessment for learning, facilitating high-quality professional learning, and continuous improvement 

-  the ability to effectively manage and lead change, including changing practices and structures in our school system that may perpetuate inequities based on race, ability and class 

-  the ability to shape an operational and cultural environment that is designed for trust, competence, and interdependency

-  the ability to manage dialogue effectively, valuing alternative points of view in planning and decision-making

-  personal professional learning and development through a strong understanding of literature related to education, student learning, and leadership 

-  that he or she is a visible instructional leader 

SALARY:  Competitive regionally

APPLICATION DEADLINE:   March 28, 2013

OTHER INFORMATION:  The position has the opportunity to become a Director of Student Support Services with the appropriate qualifications and desires.  Prospective candidates can contact Jeff Ronneberg directly at 763.785.5525 with confidential inquiries.