Special Services Director - South Carolina Connections Academy

School Summary

South Carolina Connections Academy (SCCA) is a tuition-free, K–12 online public school. The school was launched in 2008–09 under contract to the South Carolina Connections Academy Charter School. SCCA is South Carolina’s very first virtual charter school, authorized by the Erskine Charter School District. The school serves students in grades K–12 from anywhere in South Carolina. Ninety-three percent of all Connections Academy parents rated the program an “A” or “B” for the 2018-2019 school year.

Job Description:

This position plays a critical role in ensuring the success and well-being of students with special needs at SCCA, providing necessary oversight and support for special education services and related support functions. The Special Services Director oversees and supports various special education services and initiatives, ensuring that students receive the appropriate support to succeed academically. This role involves managing and overseeing various components of special education within SCCA’s schools, including related services. It focuses on maintaining compliance, supporting staff, and ensuring a positive experience for students and their families.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Relationship/Oversight with PVS (Pearson Virtual Schools)
• Serve as the primary liaison between the SCCA and PVS.
• Ensure students have access to assistive technology and services.
• Monitor compliance with federal, state, and local special education regulations in the virtual setting.
2. Related Services Oversight (K-12)
• Oversee provision of related services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and other support services, across K-12 schools.
• Coordinate with related service providers to ensure timely and effective delivery of services.
• Monitor service implementation to ensure alignment with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
3. SPED Oversight
• Oversee special education programs at the school level.
• Ensure that all special education services meet students’ needs as outlined in their IEPs.
• Provide guidance and support to school staff regarding special education policies and practices.
4. SPED Processes & Procedures
• Develop, implement, and review processes and procedures related to special education services.
• Ensure all special education activities adhere to district and state guidelines.
• Conduct training for staff on special education policies and procedural compliance.
• Oversee compliance components such as progress monitoring, reporting, instructional planning, specialized instruction, and scheduling.
5. Special Services Parent Support
• Serve as the point of contact for parents seeking information or support regarding special services for their children.
• Provide guidance and resources to parents, ensuring they understand their child’s IEP and available services.
• Assist parents in navigating the special education process and advocate for the needs of their children.
6. EDPlan Oversight
• Oversee the use and management of EDPlan, a software system for managing special education documentation and IEPs.
• Ensure that IEPs and other special education documents are properly maintained in the EDPlan system.
• Support staff on EDPlan usage and troubleshoot any issues related to the system.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Special Education, Education Administration, or a related field.
• Previous leadership and/or Coordinator experience is required.
• Valid special education certification (if required by local regulations).
• Must understand and be able to independently implement special education laws, policies, and procedures (IDEA, FAPE, Section 504, etc.).
• Experience managing or overseeing related services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, etc.
• Familiarity with EDPlan or similar special education management software.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with staff, parents, and service providers.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time, 12-month position.
• Travel is required throughout the year for in-person leadership team meetings, district meetings, school events, and state testing events.
• Must be able to use a personal electronic device and an email address for two-step authentication

South Carolina 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.