Job Description

Job Posting: Director of Student Services

Position Title: Director of Student Services Reports To: Superintendent Location: Portsmouth School Department, Portsmouth, New Hampshire Application Deadline: May 30, 2025 Start Date: July 1, 2025 Employment Type: Full-Time, 12-Month, Administrative Position, 230-Day Contract

Position Overview

** This position is now reposted with a new May 30th close date .**

The Portsmouth School Department is seeking a compassionate, knowledgeable, and equity-driven leader to serve as the Director of Student Services. Acting as the district’s Special Education Director, this role provides strategic leadership to ensure all students with disabilities receive high-quality, inclusive instruction and support. The Director ensures district compliance with federal and state regulations, cultivates collaboration among staff, and promotes a culture of student-centered decision-making.

The Portsmouth School Department, set in the heart of one of New England’s most vibrant and historic coastal communities, offers educational professionals the opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking, student-centered learning environment in a city known for its exceptional quality of life. Portsmouth schools are committed to developing students who are not only academically strong but also compassionate, adaptable, and globally aware. Our educators work to foster a passion for knowledge, guiding students to think critically, explore creatively, and chart their own meaningful paths. We prioritize global awareness and community contribution, preparing learners to be empathetic leaders in an interconnected world. Through a focus on collaboration and communication, transferable life skills, personal well-being, and empathy and kindness, Portsmouth nurtures students who are as prepared to thrive in life as they are in school. As a member of our professional team, you'll find a supportive culture that values your growth, encourages innovation, and celebrates impact. With its walkable downtown, rich arts scene, and stunning coastal setting, Portsmouth is not just a place to work—it’s a place to belong, grow, and make a difference.

Key Responsibilities

Special Education Leadership

• Direct and supervise the district’s special education programs and personnel
• Ensure compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and other applicable laws
• Oversee IEP development, implementation, and documentation
• Provide ongoing professional learning and technical assistance for staff

Student Support & Instructional Equity

• Promote inclusive instructional practices and differentiated supports
• Analyze data to guide improvements in student outcomes with an equity focus
• Foster collaboration between special education and general education teams

Budgeting & Resource Management

• Develop, monitor, and manage budgets related to special education and student support services
• Ensure effective and equitable allocation of resources
• Oversee grant funding, including the IDEA grant, and ensure proper use and reporting

Collaboration & Communication

• Partner with school leaders, counselors, and family-engagement teams
• Communicate regularly with families and caregivers
• Represent the district in regional and state special-education networks
• Liaise with community organizations to expand supports for vulnerable students

Support for Homeless Students

• Serve as the district’s McKinney-Vento Liaison
• Ensure students experiencing homelessness have equitable access to enrollment, transportation, and wrap-around services
• Coordinate identification, outreach, and compliance reporting with school and community partners

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field
• Valid administrative certification/license as a Special Education Administrator
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in special education; leadership experience preferred
• Strong working knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, and McKinney-Vento regulations
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusive education, and family engagement
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• District or school-based administrative experience
• Familiarity with trauma-informed practices and restorative approaches
• Experience with compliance audits, state reporting, budgeting, and grant management (including the IDEA grant)

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and credentials
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement contributions
• Ongoing opportunities for leadership development and training

Job Tags

Similar Jobs