Introduction to Stride and Michigan Virtual Charter Academy
Imagine being part of an organization that is revolutionizing the way students learn and grow. At Stride, we believe in Education for ANY ONE, and our mission is to provide high-quality, personalized education experiences that empower students to thrive. As a Stride company, Michigan Virtual Charter Academy (MVCA) is committed to creating a culture of inclusion, diversity, and innovation, where our employees are passionate about serving students and families. We are seeking a talented and experienced Michigan Online Special Programs Manager to join our team and help us achieve our mission.
Job Overview
The Michigan Online Special Programs Manager will play a critical role in developing and implementing policies and procedures for special education and special programs, including English Language Learners (EL) and 504 plans. This position will oversee the development, compliance, maintenance, and implementation of all initial and three-year re-evaluations, Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), service plans, and potential EL plans. The successful candidate will have a strong background in special education, excellent leadership and communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with teachers, staff, and families to ensure academic success for all students.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and disseminate best practices for special education/special programs policies and procedures in collaboration with school leadership
- Support the school's administration and teachers in providing training on and implementation of special programs and services
- Create and maintain appropriate contacts with applicable district(s) and state special education leaders to ensure continued compliance of special education programs
- Oversee the development, compliance, maintenance, and implementation of all initial and three-year re-evaluations, IEPs, service plans, 504 plans, and potential EL plans
- Ensure fiscal compliance for special programs, including Title III, Section 41, and IDEA Part B funds/CHOICE scholarship funds, and compliance with all school, local, state, and federal reporting related to special programs
- Work with the Test Coordinator to ensure that all students receive appropriate accommodations during applicable testing
- Work with the K12 enrollment team to develop processes for ensuring timely identification and enrollment of students with special needs
- Proactively communicate all changes in local, state, and/or federal special education practices and laws to the Head of School
- Ensure that special education students are integrated into all school activities and that general education and special education teachers and administrative staff work collaboratively to ensure academic success for all students
- Participate in the school's self-evaluation programs and collaborate with the Stride National Related Services team for applicable related services for students
Supervisory Responsibilities
The Michigan Online Special Programs Manager will directly supervise 3-10 Full-time Equivalent (FTE) employees, carrying out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. This includes interviewing, hiring, and training employees, planning, assigning, and directing work, appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees, addressing complaints, and resolving problems.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- A Bachelor's degree in a related field of study and seven (7) years of special education teaching experience, with three (3) years of special education managerial experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Special Education Teacher Certification
- Project management experience and strong interpersonal skills with both in-person and electronic communication platforms and a customer service orientation
- Able to read data and determine what steps are needed to assist students academically and behaviorally, as a whole and on an individual basis
- Able to apply adult instructional methods in the training and development of staff
- Communicates effectively both orally and in writing and demonstrates the use of good judgment in decision-making
- Understanding of applicable sections of the State Education Code and other pertinent regulations
- Ability to travel up to 25% of the time to the school office to review files, work with office staff, attend meetings, and the like, if not office-based
- Ability to travel up to 10% of the time within and between assigned geographic areas to support students, proctor assessments, provide and attend professional development meetings, and participate in school activities, open houses, orientations, and face-to-face enrollment meetings
- Willingness and ability to obtain additional licensing as required
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook, as well as Internet research methods and report writing techniques
Desired Qualifications
While not required, the following qualifications are desirable:
- Master's degree
- Supervisory certificate
- English as a Second Language (ESL) certification and/or Reading or Math specialist endorsement
- Three (3) years of special education administration experience
Work Environment and Company Culture
This is a home-based position with some required travel for professional development and testing. You must reside in Michigan. Our company culture values innovation, diversity, and inclusion, and we are committed to creating a work environment that is collaborative, supportive, and empowering. We believe in providing our employees with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed and grow in their careers.
Compensation and Benefits
We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off. We also provide opportunities for professional development and growth, including training, mentoring, and education assistance.
Conclusion
If you are a motivated and experienced special education professional looking for a new challenge, we encourage you to apply for the Michigan Online Special Programs Manager position. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic team and make a real difference in the lives of students and families. Don't miss out on this chance to take your career to the next level and apply now!
Ready to Apply?
If you are a motivated individual ready to contribute to a thriving team, we encourage you to apply now! We are excited to review your application.
Apply Now