Duties

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Strategy

• Support the strategic planning, implementation, and ongoing evaluation of special education programs and staff to ensure student growth and operational efficiency.
• Coordinate the development and implementation of summer programming services, including the Extended School Year (ESY).
• Assist with staffing, budgeting, and critical operational decision-making.
• Monitor budgetary needs to ensure fiscal responsibility while maximizing resources for student support.

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure strict compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Illinois School Code, and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) requirements.
• Oversee critical data and reporting processes, including Child Find, December 1 Child Count, Medicaid billing,  and I-STAR reporting.
• Participate in special education administrative meetings, advisory committee meetings, and task force meetings as assigned.

Supervision & Mentorship

• Supervise and provide instructional support to special education staff and related service providers.
• Act as a mentor to Special Education Administrators, providing guidance on leadership and case management.
• Facilitate professional development and provide feedback to drive staff performance.

Collaboration & Advocacy

• Collaborate effectively with district administrators, member districts, families, and community partners to build consensus and support student outcomes.
• Attend IEP meetings and administrative meetings as needed to provide district-level support and conflict resolution.
• Perform other tasks and assume responsibilities as assigned by the Executive Director.

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s Degree in Special Education or Educational Administration (Required).
• Licensure: Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with General Administrative Endorsement and Director of Special Education endorsement.
• Experience: Previous experience in special education teaching and/or administration is highly preferred. Knowledge of Illinois-specific reporting (I-STAR) is a distinct advantage.

Salary/Benefits

Salary Range: $90,000 – $120,000 (Commensurate with experience)

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three letters of reference by January 4th, 2026 to:

Kate Ross, GCSEC Executive Director (Incoming July 1, 2026)

kross@grundyspecialed.org

Subject: GCSEC Assistant Director Application

Grundy County Special Education Cooperative is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Email Address

nfazio@grundyspecialed.org

School District

Grundy County Special Education Cooperative

ILearn Link

ILearn

Report Card Link

District Report Card

Application Deadline

1/4/2026