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As the Dean of Special Education at Hiawatha Academies, you will lead the school's special education team, oversee student support service providers, and ensure that all students, particularly those with IEPs, receive the services they require to achieve their academic and behavioral goals. You will collaborate closely with the Principal and network student services team to create an inclusive and effective learning environment.

Candidates applying for the Dean of Special Education role at Hiawatha Academies should possess significant experience in educational leadership, particularly in special education. A valid teaching license and administrative credentials are advantageous, along with a proven track record of successfully working with students who have diverse learning needs.

The starting pay range for the Dean of Special Education position at Hiawatha Academies is $67,000. In addition, we offer professional development opportunities and a collaborative work environment that values continuous improvement and inclusion.

Hiawatha Academies prioritizes professional development, with scheduled time throughout the academic year for all campuses to come together. This includes training and collaborative celebrations that reinforce our commitment to staff growth and the continual improvement of our educational practices.

The mission of Hiawatha Academies is to empower all scholars with the knowledge, character, and leadership skills necessary to graduate from college and contribute positively to society. The school is dedicated to fostering an environment where every child can succeed, exemplifying our core belief that children are at the center of everything we do.

When answering this question, emphasize individualized support strategies such as collaboration with educators to tailor instructional methods, active involvement in IEP meetings, and creating a culture of inclusivity within the classroom. Highlight any past experiences where you successfully implemented such strategies.

Focus on a specific actionable example that demonstrates your leadership skills. Discuss how you approached the challenge, employed open communication, sought solutions collaboratively, and ultimately benefited student outcomes, showcasing your capacity for problem-solving.

Describe your approach to evaluating special education programs, focusing on metrics such as student progress, feedback from staff and families, and alignment with IEP goals. You might want to mention the importance of continual assessment and modification based on data-driven results.

Highlight the importance of teamwork among educators, specialists, and families in supporting students' individual needs. Discuss how collaboration can foster an inclusive environment and ensure that all voices are heard in the decision-making process.

Share your understanding of culturally competent education and how you have applied it in your past roles. Talk about the strategies you've implemented to ensure that diverse backgrounds are respected and integrated into the learning experience.

Outline your conflict resolution strategy, emphasizing your belief in transparent communication and collaborative problem-solving. Provide examples of past conflicts and how facilitated dialogue led to a resolution that benefited the overall team dynamic.

Discuss the types of assessments you've used, how you analyze the data gathered, and how this informs your interventions. Illustrate this with examples where data led to successful changes in instructional approaches.

Emphasize the importance of creating a positive, supportive atmosphere. Outline your strategies such as providing ongoing feedback, recognizing individual contributions, and fostering professional development.

Share your perspective on inclusive education and why it's essential. Discuss how your vision aligns with Hiawatha Academies’ mission and how you would implement practices to strengthen this approach.

Explain your commitment to professional growth by discussing resources, organizations, and your network that keeps you informed about developments in special education. Highlight any continued education you pursue to enhance your strategies.