Special Education Program Manager

SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM MANAGER

Chileda's mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals with cognitive and behavior challenges. Chileda's goal is to help students increase their appropriate social behaviors and develop independent living skills, through an enriched learning environment and individualized behavior programming. Chileda's population includes children and young adults with special needs including Autism, Attachment Challenges, related developmental delays, and intensive behavioral needs.

SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Principal, the Special Education Program Manager manages the day-to-day operations and safety of the La Crosse Learning Center for individuals with cognitive and behavioral challenges. This position is responsible for IEP compliance, classroom practices and resources, and internal educational staff oversight, ensuring that each student's Individualized Education Program is implemented with fidelity and that daily activities run safely and effectively. The Program Manager provides direct supervision to the Education Shift Manager, Floating Teacher, and Classroom Teachers. The Special Education Program Manager works in close partnership with the Principal, who leads professional teacher development and external relationships, to provide a well-coordinated, compliant, and student-centered educational program.

REQUIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Human Services, or related field required; master's degree preferred
• A minimum of two years of supervision or teaching experience
• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities
• Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) along with two years of teaching experience preferred
• Knowledge of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), special education law, and compliance requirements
• A teaching license is not required at hire but must be obtained within two years of hire. Candidates should be willing to pursue a master's degree in educational administration, with current enrollment in a teaching licensure or graduate program preferred
• Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to develop and maintain relationships with families, school districts, leaders, and peers

GENERAL HOURS OF DUTY: Generally, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday – Friday. Additional hours of work may be required. This is an exempt, benefited position, averaging a minimum of 40 hours of work per week.

REPORTS TO: Principal

JOB DUTIES:

IEP Compliance and Special Education Oversight

• Coordinate the development, implementation, and monitoring of all Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to ensure compliance with IDEA, Wisconsin special education law, and applicable school district requirements.
• Track IEP timelines, annual review dates, and quarterly progress reporting to ensure all deadlines are met. Communicate proactively with the Principal regarding upcoming meetings and compliance obligations.
• Facilitate IEP and quarterly review meetings in the Principal's absence; otherwise support meeting preparation, coordinate team participation, and ensure timely follow-up on action items.
• Ensure all required compliance reporting is completed accurately and submitted to appropriate school districts and agencies in a timely manner.
• Remain current on special education law and IEP best practices; apply updated knowledge to internal processes and staff training.

Classroom Practices and Resources

• Support classroom teachers in implementing evidence-based instructional practices that meet each student's IEP goals and individual learning needs.
• Facilitate collaborative work between teachers and behavior services to set up classroom environments that support both educational and behavioral goals.
• Maintain and coordinate access to classroom resources, instructional materials, and adaptive equipment to support effective programming.
• Provide consultation and technical assistance to classroom teachers in a team-oriented manner, offering direction and plans of action to meet student needs.
• Manage scheduling needs of the education department in collaboration with the Education Shift Manager, including daily classroom schedules, specials scheduling, and the annual school calendar.
• Assist the education team in planning and facilitating community outings; coordinate with program staff to ensure appropriate coverage.
• Develop and maintain education department operating procedures in collaboration with the Principal, ensuring they are reflective of Chileda's philosophy and mission.

Daily Operations and Safety

• Oversee the daily operations and safety of the Learning Center, ensuring activities run smoothly, staffing coverage is maintained, and the building environment is safe and orderly for students and staff.
• Work with the site Principal to remain current on Emergency