| Location | Salem, MA |
Salem Academy Charter School (SACS) is a nationally ranked urban charter school north of Boston offering a rigorous college preparatory program to 480 students in grades 6-12. Since 2004, SACS has served Salem''s diverse population. Through a unique integration of rigorous college preparatory classes with service to the community, Salem Academy graduates informed, articulate and proactive individuals of strong character.
Salem Academy is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community. We seek to support a faculty and staff that reflects the rich diversity of our student body, creating a culture and environment where diverse perspectives, ideas, and identities are valued and integrated into how we work and educate students.
Salem Academy seeks a Team Chair, designated by the Special Education Director, to oversee IEP Teams and maintain compliance with special education laws, timelines, and processes.
The ideal candidate is committed to prioritizing each student''s and family''s unique needs and supporting them in reaching their highest levels of academic, social, and/or emotional growth. Additionally, this individual should be organized, have strong communication skills, and bring an equity-based mindset to their work each day.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
At the discretion of the Special Education Director, the Team Chair will conduct a variety of Team Meetings (listed below), in adherence to Special Education protocol and timelines: Annual Reviews Re-evaluation Meetings Initial Evaluation Meetings Manifestation Determination Meetings Outside testing review Parent requests Record notes during team meetings and clearly communicate all pertinent information on forms as required by law for dissemination to appropriate personnel, team members, and student records. Ensure IEP plans are developed for any student determined eligible for Special Education, either initially or through re-determination for continued eligibility. Review existing evaluation data to gauge which, if any, additional assessments are necessary to determine whether a student is eligible for new or continuing special education services. Participate in mediation meetings at the Special Education Director''s discretion. Inform the team of any changes to state or federal legal requirements governing special education, and adjust internal procedures accordingly. Participate in case conferences concerning individual academic and behavioral needs, and assist in developing intervention plans as needed. In coordination with the Director, lead or assist in planning, developing, and delivering professional development for Special Education and general education staff on inclusive practices and essential policies. Organize and implement tracking systems that ensure strict adherence to the timelines embedded in MA and federal special education laws during all IEP processes. Review and provide feedback to Special Educators on IEP documentation, assessment, progress reports, goal writing, etc. Recommend the appropriate assessments to address re/evaluation questions and ultimately guide eligibility decision-making. Possess a baseline understanding of psychometric test interpretation to make decisions regarding eligibility, share constructive feedback with evaluators, interpret results with parents and general education team members, and make informed decisions for IEPs. Assume other duties as requested by the Special Education Director.
Qualifications Belief in the mission and vision of the school Demonstrated ability to connect with diverse students and families Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and collaborate with adults from a diverse range of perspectives and backgrounds MA licensure as a special education teacher Five years as a special education teacher strongly preferred Experience in secondary schools strongly preferred An entrepreneurial spirit that reflects an openness to change, willingness to problem-solve, and an interest in developing new ideas and programs Outstanding written and oral communication skills
Salem Academy Charter School values a school culture that celebrates learning, and we believe that the adult culture in the school is the foundation of the school's success. The culture is based on mutual respect, integrity, professionalism, a commitment to excellence, a collaborative spirit, and a sense of human kindness, particularly as it relates to age-appropriate adolescent development. Salem Academy Charter School provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.