Executive Director, Special Education

ABOUT US

The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) is one of the leading school systems in Maryland and the nation. To learn more about us and our 2024 -2029 Strategic Plan, please visit our website and our careers page. Join our award-winning workforce and make a difference in the lives of our students!

ABOUT THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Before you begin, please read the position description below carefully and review our application instructions. Be sure your application reflects experience and education to meet any minimum qualifications listed on the job description. Once your application has been submitted, you will not be able to add documentation or make any changes. More details about application requirements are found below.

Please note that application submission will be available only through 11:59 PM on the date prior to the indicated end date. If no end date is indicated, the posting will remain open indefinitely.

Job Posting End Date:

Reminder: Current permanent and temporary employees must apply through the Jobs Hub in Workday, not the external career site.

This position will be posted until filled. Initial review of applications will begin on August 15, 2025.

DESCRIPTION

Under the direction of the Chief Academic Officer, the Executive Director of Special Education provides vision, leadership, oversight, and evaluation for the Department of Special Education (DSE). The Executive Director of Special Education ensures the provision of early intervention and special education services for learners, birth through age twenty-one, who receive services through an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or an Individualized Education Program (IEP) in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This position is responsible for providing oversight for the effective and efficient operation of four major offices: (1) Early Intervention Services, (2) School-based and Transition Services, (3) Countywide Services, and (4) Special Education Compliance, Nonpublic Services, and Family Support; and is also responsible for managing the development and implementation of eight program budgets and multiple grants.

The ideal leader for this role is equity-driven, collaborative, and solutions-oriented, with a deep understanding of inclusive practices and a commitment to improving outcomes for students with disabilities. This individual must be a strategic thinker who can build trust across stakeholder groups, foster cross-departmental partnerships, and lead complex system-level change with clarity and compassion.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants must meet all the qualifications below to be considered for the vacancy.

Education:

• Master’s degree in education from an accredited college or university with an emphasis on curriculum, instruction, or educational leadership.

Certification/Licensure:

Priority will be given to applicants who:

• Hold a current Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) professional Administrator I or Administrator II certificate/license.

Applicants may be considered who:

• Have completed the requirements for a Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) professional Administrator I or Administrator II certificate/license at the time of application.

OR

• Hold a current out-of-state educator certificate or license and are eligible for a Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) professional license for Administrator I or Administrator II as outlined in COMAR, at the time of application.

Experience:

• Eight (8) years of PreK-12 leadership experience in the field of Special Education, at least three (3) of