Mankato Area Public Schools (MAPS) seeks a collaborative and visionary leader for the role of Director of Student Support Services. Serving 8,000 students with a dedicated team of more than 1,300 staff members in south central Minnesota, MAPS is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment. The Director will play a pivotal role in ensuring access to student support services, including special education, Section 504, school health services, social work, and psychological services. Summary of Duties:
The Director of Student Support Services provides leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for the district’s special education, Section 504, school health services, school social work, and school psychology programs. This position ensures that all services align with Mankato Area Public Schools’ Strategic Roadmap, as well as federal and state laws.
The Director is responsible for policy development, program implementation, compliance monitoring, and resource allocation across all student support services. Additionally, this role collaborates with the Teaching and Learning Department to implement a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to address students' diverse academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs and enhance student success.
Key responsibilities include:
- Special Education Services: Oversee compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and manage Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Section 504 and ADA Compliance: Ensure adherence to Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- School-Based Health Services: Supervise health programs that support student well-being.
- Mental Health Programming and Behavioral Supports: Implement and evaluate mental health initiatives and positive behavioral interventions.
- Social Work and Psychological Services: Lead teams to provide comprehensive support addressing students' social and emotional needs.
- Community Partnerships: Develop and maintain community partnerships to enhance resources and support services that address the diverse needs of students and families.
The Director will collaborate with district leaders, staff, families, and community partners to ensure all students have access to the resources and support necessary for academic and personal success.
Qualifications Required: - Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field.
- Valid Minnesota Director of Special Education license.
- Minimum of three (3) years of teaching or supervisory experience in special education or student support services.
Preferred:
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Leadership Experience in Special Education
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Experience in Policy and Program Development
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Extensive Knowledge of Special Education Laws and Best Practices
Experience in Strategic Planning and Resource Allocation
Skill in Data-Driven Decision Making
Experience in Staff Development and Compliance Oversight
Strong Communication and Team Leadership Skills
Rate of Pay:
$165,000 - $172,000
Eligible Employee Benefits include:
- Teacher Retirement Associations (TRA) Retirement Pension
- 403(b) Retirement Savings with Employer Matching Program
- Medical & Dental Coverage
- Fully Paid Life Insurance
- Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
- Paid Leave: Vacation, Sick Leave, Emergency, and Personal Days
- Paid Holidays
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Application Deadline:
April 18, 2025
Interested candidates should complete the online application found at www.isd77.org. In your application, please include college transcripts and three letters of recommendation, with at least one from a current or former direct supervisor.
This position will be filled on the basis of the experience, competency, and qualifications of the applicant and the needs of the District. District 77 complies with state and federal fair employment regulations.
For further information contact John Lustig, Director of Administrative Services at 507-387-3017.