Director of Special Services - District - Anticipated start date is January 4, 2027 

The posting will be open from October 1, 2026 - November 30, 2026 unless notified of an alternative closing date.

Anticipated interview schedule is the first week in December 2026 or when a suitable candidate is found. 

The salary listed will be pro-rated to the start date in the fiscal year.

Additional information regarding the posting to be provided to applicants as it becomes available.

MSAD #35

Position Title: Director of Special Services 

Department:  Special Services

Reports to:     Superintendent of Schools

Prepared by:   Caroline Arakelian, PhD, Superintendent of Schools

Date Approved: October 1, 2026

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Director of Special Services is responsible for the coordination, supervision and maintenance of effective programs for students in the MSAD #35 School District and Rollinsford, NH School District who require Special Education, Gifted Education, English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, 504 Accommodation Plans and services for Homeless and Unaccompanied Youth.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

The responsibilities outlined below are representative and do not encompass or define all tasks that may be required by this position.

1. Authorized to commit resources of MSAD #35.
2. Responsible for the preparation of a budget for Special Education, Gifted Education, English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, 504 Accommodation Plans and services for Homeless and Unaccompanied Youth.
3. Responsible for the fiscal management of all special services programs.
4. Responsible to ensure that the district fulfills the obligations in compliance with federal and state regulations that govern Special Education, Gifted Education, English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, 504 Accommodation Plans and services for Homeless and Unaccompanied Youth.
5. Responsible for identifying programmatic resources for MSAD #35 students (e.g. qualified professionals for contractual agreements, programs).
6. Responsible for the maintenance of effective record keeping systems, data collection, referral procedures, assessments, evaluations, reporting, and communication regarding students who may be/are eligible for special services under I.D.E.A.,under  the Americans with Disabilities Act (section 504), under the laws that govern gifted education, English as a Second Language and the education of students who are homeless.
7. Responsible for the supervision of all special services programs.
8. Responsible for the implementation and maintenance of programs in accordance with Board policy, and state and federal regulations.
9. Responsible for data collection and completion of state and federal forms regarding all special services programs as listed above.
10. Collaboratively assisting the MSAD #35 administrative team in conducting staff meetings, school improvement planning efforts, curriculum development and in designing professional development opportunities and related services.
11. Responsible for the supervision and evaluation of special services staff.
12. Attends School Board meetings and prepares reports as requested by the Superintendent of Schools.
13. Responsible for maintaining appropriate  records, attending meetings as necessary and to perform such other duties as may be required.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

1. Minimum of five years experience in Special Education
2. Master’s Degree or higher in education
3. Maine Department of Education Certificate 030 – Administrator of Special Education or eligibility required.
4. Maine Department of Education Criminal History Record Check certificate required or eligibility required.