Exciting Leadership Opportunity: Assistant Director of Specialized Schools
Are you an experienced educational leader with a passion for specialized programs and a commitment to student success? Do you thrive in dynamic environments where innovation, collaboration, and student-centered leadership drive meaningful change? If so, we invite you to apply for the role of Assistant Director of Specialized Schools!
About the Role
As an integral member of our leadership team, the Assistant Director of Specialized Schools provides strategic oversight, operational leadership, and educational guidance to district-specialized programs. This role is responsible for ensuring high academic and social-emotional growth for all students while maintaining a positive, equitable, and high-performing school climate.
Reporting to the Director of Specialized Schools, this position plays a critical role in compliance, staff development, curriculum oversight, and student achievement, ensuring that all students receive the support and resources they need to succeed.
What You'll Do
Lead & Oversee specialized schools and programs to foster an inclusive, student-centered learning environment.
Ensure High Standards & Student Success by promoting a positive school climate with high expectations for students and staff.
Direct Student Screening & Placement, assessing student transfers into and out of Vanguard and the YAP program.
Monitor & Enhance Instruction, recommending strategic curriculum changes and instructional improvements.
Oversee Compliance, serving as the EL/504 compliance officer and ensuring adherence to all relevant federal and state regulations.
Keeps current on state and federal EL, 504, and Special Education law to provide leadership and professional development to all building staff.
Support Student Growth, regularly assessing achievement data to drive continuous improvement.
Supervise & Mentor Staff, conducting evaluations, leading professional development, and participating in hiring decisions.
Collaborate Across Teams, working closely with district leaders, educators, families, and the community.
Lead Equity Initiatives, ensuring that educational equity remains at the forefront of decision-making.
Innovate with Technology, integrating cutting-edge instructional tools to enhance teaching and learning.
What We’re Looking For
Presently hold a valid Illinois State PEL with an administrative endorsement.
Multi-lingual preferred.
Proven Leadership – Experience in school administration, specialized programs, or instructional leadership.
Expertise in Special Education & Compliance – Strong understanding of EL, 504, and special education laws.
Data-Driven Decision Maker – Ability to assess student performance and drive instructional improvements.
Collaborative & Relationship-Oriented – Skilled in working with educators, families, and community stakeholders.
Commitment to Equity – Passionate about creating inclusive learning environments and disrupting inequities.
Why Join Us?
Make a Lasting Impact – Empower students and staff through transformational leadership.
Collaborate with a Strong Team – Work alongside dedicated professionals who share your passion for education.
Opportunities for Growth – Gain access to professional development and leadership pathways.
Innovate & Lead Change – Drive strategic initiatives that improve specialized education.
LENGTH OF CONTRACT: 210 day assignment
SALARY: Administrative Salary Range - $128,632 - $160,790 to be adjusted for 2025-26 - Longevity bonus of 1% for those at the top of the salary range
- Medical, dental, and life insurance plans tailored for you and your family
- Contribution to TRS (Teachers' Retirement System) for eligible employees
- 403(b) & 457(b) participation
- 14 sick days and 4 personal leave days each year
- Remote work options: Up to 10 days annually
- Employee Assistance Program
- Tuition reimbursement for approved courses
- Mentorship and development programs designed to prepare you for career advancement
- $2,000 bonus for completing a pre-approved doctoral program
- Paid bereavement leave and additional sick days (14/year)
- Cell phone stipends for 24/7 on-call positions
APPLICATION PROCEDURES: In addition to completing an online application, candidates are required to upload all of the following: - A single page cover letter indicating interest in the position;
- A resume listing personal data, education, teaching, and administrative experience;
- Print out of IL State Board of Education ELIS Credentials screen (s);
- Transcript(s) [EXTERNAL CANDIDATES ONLY]; and
- Three current letters of recommendation.
Click on the RED "APPLY" button above to begin an application.
Please be aware that as a requirement of your application you will be invited to complete a digital interview via RIVS (Interviewstream). The invitation will come to your email and the RIVS (Interviewstream) system gives you ten (10) calendar days to complete the interview from the time the invitation is issued. Keep in mind that the interview must be completed before you can submit your application, even if the interview expiration is beyond the date of the application deadline. Therefore, all your application materials, interview included, must be submitted by the application deadline.
Please email hresources@d214.org to request an extension.
"We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our district. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status."