Missouri Connections Academy - Manager Of Special Education

Company Summary

At Connections Academy, we help students maximize their potential and meet the highest performance standards through a uniquely individualized learning program. Founded in 2001, we deliver a high-quality, online educational experience to students in grades K-12. Our innovative and personalized e-learning, an award-winning curriculum and Education Management System (EMS), dedicated state-certified teachers, and a supportive school community are what we pride ourselves on. In addition to academics, teachers focus on emotional well-being and social development, working closely with families to help students learn how they learn best. Parents of enrolled students consistently share their satisfaction with Connections Academy: 92% “would recommend the schools to other families” and 95% say the curriculum is “high quality.” As of this year, Connections Academy-supported public schools serve students in 29 states, while our private online school, Pearson Online Academy meets the online school needs of students worldwide. Recognized for its outstanding curriculum and leadership, Connections Academy is committed to expanding quality education through technology, and helping students achieve both academic and personal success. Connections Academy is part of the global learning company, Pearson, and its Online & Blended Learning group. For more information, visit www.ConnectionsAcademy.com or call 1-800-382-6010

Position Summary and Responsibilities

The Manager of Special Education will work in conjunction with the school’s leadership team to support the mission and operations of the school to help students successfully complete their instructional and career pathway programs. The Manager of Special Education will ensure that the school is providing appropriate programs in the least restrictive environment for all students with special needs. This will include management of the pre-referral and IEP processes, maintenance of student data, communicate with parents, locate and contract with service providers throughout the state, and ensure that the school operates in compliance with special education law and procedures at all times. The Manager of Special Education will lead the K-12 Special Education Team and ensure the school remains in compliance with state and federal requirements.

Responsibilities

• Performs such other duties as assigned by the School Leader or corporate Senior Director of Student Services.
• Implement standardized processes, forms and protocols for all special education procedures;
• Oversee the development, tracking, dissemination and proper implementation of IEP or 504 plan mandated accommodations for students with special needs during state testing events;
• Communicate and consult with teachers and Learning Coaches regarding the instructional program for students with disabilities or other special needs, ensuring compliant school actions and that students are learning in their Least Restrictive Environment;
• Ensure IEP move in conferences occur within ten days of enrollment for all students with IEPs enrolled at MOCA.
• Maintain documentation within the IEP program and the Learning Management System that captures and organizes special education timelines and data;
• Create and implement a school-to-work transition program for students with disabilities.
• Provide supervision to the special education teacher(s) and assistant managers;
• Collaborate with the corporate staff and members of the local school team;
• Support the mission and operations of the school to help students successfully complete their instructional and career pathway programs.
• Build and maintain relationships with private providers, community agencies, and adult service providers.
• Ensure compliance with special education processes and timelines.
• Develop a working knowledge of Connections Academy’s curricular options, and how they can be adapted and implemented to meet specific student needs;
• Coordinate the establishment and delivery of IEP mandated services to students;
• Introduce new ways of supporting special needs students in a virtual environment;
• Plan, implement, and evaluate staff in-service activities; and
• Participate in conferences and meetings as required;

Requirements

• Expertise in special education law and compliance
• Demonstrated ability to work well in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
• Missouri certification
• A minimum of 3 years of full-time successful teaching experience in special education
• Experience implementing a Special Education transition program.
• Technologically proficient (especially with Microsoft Office products)
• Occasional travel (less than 10%)
• Proctor state assessments
• Experience leading/managing a high school Special Education program
• Masters’ Degree in Special Education or related Education Field
• High degree of flexibility
• Administrator’s License or Special Education Director license required
• Customer focused approach

Note: The anticipated starting salary for Colorado-based individuals expressing interest in this position begins at $60,000 per year. Benefits available to eligible employees can be seen at https://www.hrc-connectionsacademy.com/prospective-employee-benefits-page.html.

Missouri Connections Academy strives to create an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the diversity of the people we serve. We foster fairness, equity, and inclusion to create a workplace environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

Want to know more about being an educator at Connections Academy? Please join us for a live virtual information session held every Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. Eastern. We hope to see you there!