Dean of Special Education - job 1 of 2

As the Dean of Special Education at Hiawatha Academies, your main responsibilities will include leading the special education team, overseeing student support services to ensure every student, especially those with IEPs, receives individualized support. You’ll work closely with the campus leadership to develop inclusive strategies and maintain a culturally competent environment conducive to student achievement.

To be eligible for the Dean of Special Education position at Hiawatha Academies, candidates should possess a valid state teaching license, preferably in special education, alongside administrative experience. A strong belief in inclusive education and a track record of successfully supporting students with diverse needs is also crucial.

The Dean of Special Education plays a pivotal role in student success at Hiawatha Academies by ensuring that tailored educational strategies are implemented effectively. You will promote a positive learning environment and ensure that all educational services align with the students' individual needs, thus facilitating their growth and achievement.

The vision for special education at Hiawatha Academies involves a commitment to inclusive education, ensuring that every student receives equitable access to resources. The Dean of Special Education will work towards fostering a collaborative environment among staff and families, aiming for a unified approach that celebrates diversity and encourages student empowerment.

At Hiawatha Academies, the Dean of Special Education will benefit from structured professional development integrated into the yearly calendar. This allows for the collaboration of all campuses, providing a platform for sharing successes, enhancing skills, and reinforcing our mission to support educators in promoting student achievement.

To create an inclusive environment, I would assess current practices, gather feedback from staff and students, and employ strategies that respect and meet individual needs. Collaboration with teachers, parents, and external resources is essential to develop tailored support plans that benefit all scholars.

In my previous role, I initiated a mentorship program connecting special education students with peer mentors from general education. This program not only improved social skills but also fostered a sense of belonging for all students, ultimately enhancing academic performance.

I stay updated through continuous professional development, attending workshops and conferences, and subscribing to relevant journals. Networking with other professionals in the field also provides insights into innovative practices and policies that can be beneficial.

I prioritize clear, empathetic communication, ensuring that families feel valued and included in their child's education. Regular updates, family meetings, and welcoming feedback are vital strategies to build trust and cooperation.

I believe in a collaborative and empowering leadership style, fostering an environment where team members can share ideas and feel supported. By promoting open communication and professional growth opportunities, I strive to create a motivated and cohesive team.

I would first review the IEP goals with the team, gather observational data, and consult with educators to identify barriers to progress. Together, we would adjust the approach, employing different strategies and ensuring adequate support is in place for the student.

My approach includes recognizing the diverse backgrounds of students and incorporating culturally relevant materials and methods. This helps build connections and validates students' identities, enhancing their engagement and success in learning.

Promoting autonomy involves encouraging students to set their own goals and make choices in their learning. I would implement self-advocacy training and provide opportunities for leadership roles within the classroom to empower students.

I regularly utilize data analysis to monitor student progress by tracking academic performance and behavioral data. This analysis helps identify trends, informing instructional practices and adjustments needed to support each student's growth effectively.

Collaboration is crucial; it ensures that all educators understand the unique needs of students with disabilities. I believe in regular co-planning sessions, professional development, and shared responsibility for all students' outcomes, thus creating a unified educational approach.