Helena Public Schools is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as the Director of Special Education and Student Services. This critical district-level role provides strategic leadership to ensure equitable access, inclusion, and excellence for all students seeking support services. This position champions inclusive practices, high-quality instruction, and least restrictive environment placements while overseeing staff, managing resources, and ensuring effective service delivery across the District.

This is a unique opportunity to lead meaningful, system-wide work that directly impacts students, families, and staff, while fostering a culture of collaboration, professionalism, and continuous improvement across Helena Public Schools. The successful candidate will bring a deep understanding of student services, a commitment to equity and belonging, and the ability to translate vision into effective, sustainable practices that align with the District's mission and goals.

Some of what you will do:

• Provide District-wide leadership for the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of special education and student services programs that promote equitable access, inclusive practices, and positive student outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with all federal and state regulations (including IDEA, ADA, and Section 504), while upholding student rights and fostering meaningful family engagement.
• Oversee the development, implementation, and monitoring of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), ensuring high-quality instruction, measurable progress, and access to the least restrictive environment.
• Lead data-informed decision-making to evaluate program effectiveness, improve service delivery models, and address disparities in student outcomes.
• Develop and manage the special education budget, including staffing, resource allocation, and contracted services.
• Supervise, evaluate, and support special education staff, nurses, and program leaders, while fostering a collaborative, professional culture focused on continuous improvement.
• Design and support professional learning focused on special education compliance, inclusive practices, and instructional effectiveness.
• Collaborate with school leaders, District departments, families, and community partners to ensure cohesive, responsive, and student-centered services.
• Serve as a District representative in complex student service matters, including eligibility, placement decisions, due process, and out-of-district placements.
• Build strong partnerships with families and community agencies to support the academic, social, and emotional success of all students.

Who we are looking for:

• Master's degree from an accredited institution with an emphasis in special education, educational leadership, or a related field.
• A minimum of five years teaching experience that includes special education programs and student support services; supervisory experience preferred.
• A valid teaching certificate in conjunction with a valid administrative endorsement and coursework related to special education.
• Demonstrated knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, ADA, and related regulations.
• Experience managing budgets and staffing.
• Experience with MTSS, transitioning programming, and out-of-district placements.

Professional competencies include:

• Initiative and adaptability to independently prioritize action to best address the needs of the District with professionalism and mindfulness.
• Communication and integrity to work effectively under pressure with diverse audiences, promoting consensus, while being respectful of other's interests and District's interests.
• Influence and personal effectiveness to instill trust and demonstrate integrity through daily interactions and act responsibly in difficult situations.
• Service and organizational commitment to provide prompt, efficient service that meets expectations of the clients and holds to the highest value the District's approach and service.
• Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively and productively with colleagues to support student success and achieve school and District goals.
• Mathematical skills and reasoning ability to calculate figures, analyze data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
• Work effectively with computer and software programs to perform the duties of the position; learn and utilize District applications.
• Remain current and knowledgeable of legal requirements governing special education, including 504 laws, and possess the ability to convey that information to others.

How to Apply

Complete the online application (hpsjob.com) and include a cover letter and resume. In addition, as part of the application process, please provide a video of three minutes or less in which you respond to the following:

• Why do you want to be the Helena Public Schools Special Education Director?
• How do you see this role supporting the students and staff at Helena Public Schools?
• What makes you a good candidate to serve in this capacity?

You might include highlights of your experience, education, or other relevant details.

The video should be in .mp4 format, and should be no larger than 1GB in size and sent to [email protected]

This position will serve a 230-day contract. Annual salary starts at $119,059.50 per year depending on experience and a comprehensive benefit package. (Please note salary amounts for the 2026-2027 school year are presently undetermined. Salary will be adjusted accordingly when they are final.)

The first screening will occur May 8, 2026 

Question? Email [email protected]

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

• The hiring authority reserves the right to offer the position at any time during the recruitment process. It is to the applicant's advantage to apply as early as possible.

• Prior to employment, you must successfully complete the appropriate background check required for employment.

The Helena School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Persons with a disability who need assistance in the application process or those needing this announcement in an alternate format may email [email protected] or call (406) 324-2012. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Traditional Relay Service from Montana Relay.