Virtual Special Education Director

Overview

OHDELA (Ohio Distance and Electronic Learning Academy) is a tuition-free, K-12 online school dedicated to transforming education through a state-of-the-art virtual experience. We offer a flexible, standards-aligned curriculum delivered by highly qualified teachers, providing 24/7 access to learning. As a premier online academy, we tailor our instruction to meet the unique needs of every student—from advanced learners to those seeking a safe, bully-free environment.

The Special Education Director provides leadership, coordination, and oversight for all special education programs and services within the school. The director ensures compliance with federal and state laws governing services for students with disabilities, promotes inclusive educational practices, and supports staff in delivering high-quality individualized instruction aligned with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and guidance from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. This is a virtual position, but in-office work will be required throughout the year. Please note – while this is an online school position and all instruction occurs virtually, travel and face to face attendance will be required several times per year to support in person state testing and student events. Eligibility: Open to residents of Ohio.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for all special education programs serving students with disabilities (K–12).
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and initiatives related to special education services.
• Ensure the delivery of appropriate services based on student needs and individualized plans.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
• Monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for legal compliance and educational effectiveness.
• Coordinate school responses to complaints, due process hearings, and mediation.
• Maintain accurate special education documentation and reporting requirements for the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.
• Supervise and evaluate special education coordinators, intervention specialists, related service providers, and support staff.
• Coordinate professional development for general and special education staff.
• Oversee the evaluation, eligibility determination, and placement processes for students with disabilities.
• Analyze special education data to guide program improvement.
• Monitor student outcomes, progress monitoring, and program effectiveness.
• Serve as a liaison between families, school staff, and community agencies.
• Facilitate communication with parents regarding services, rights, and program options.
• Perform all other job duties as assigned.

Skills & Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field.
• Valid Ohio administrative license appropriate for supervision of special education programs.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in special education.
• Strong knowledge of special education laws and compliance requirements.
• Leadership and staff supervision skills.
• Effective communication and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to interpret educational data and implement improvement strategies.
• Knowledge of inclusive instructional practices and intervention frameworks.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite Products.
• Ability to handle confidential information responsibly and exhibit sound judgment while maintaining that confidentiality.
• Demonstrates a reliable, dependable, and trustworthy work ethic.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure, effectively prioritizing and executing tasks to meet deadlines consistently.

Benefits

The annual starting salary for this position is between $85,000 & $90,000 annually. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include geography/market, skills, education, experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

Life benefits – time & peace of mind

• Paid time off
• Retirement contributions
• Optional Basic Life and AD&D insurance
• Voluntary life insurance (employee, spouse, child)
• Discounted childcare at Early Learning Academies locations

Health benefits – stay well & thrive

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Voluntary short-term disability insurance
• Voluntary long-term disability insurance

Career benefits – keep growing

• Career advancement opportunities throughout Pansophic Learning and our strong network of 4,000+ instructors and education professionals

Equal Employment Opportunity

It is our policy to abide by all federal, state and local laws prohibiting employment discrimination based solely on a person’s race, color, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, pregnancy, childbirth, physical disability, mental and/or intellectual disability, age, military status, veteran status (including protected veterans), marital status, registered domestic partner or civil union status, familial status, gender (including sex stereotyping and gender identity or expression), medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other protected status except where a reasonable, bona fide occupational qualification exists.