Position Summary The Program Manager for Specialized Instruction provides district-wide leadership and oversight of substantially separate special education programs, with a primary focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), social-emotional learning (SEL), and life skills programming. This role is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality, legally compliant, and student-centered services across all programs. The Program Manager serves as a key collaborative partner to district and school leaders, educators, related service providers, and families.
Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Oversight & Development - In collaboration with school and district leaders, provide direct oversight of all district substantially separate programs including autism, social-emotional, and life skills programs across all school levels
- Design, implement, and continuously evaluate program models to ensure alignment with best practices, current research, and the individual needs of students
- Ensure all programs are in compliance with federal and state special education laws and regulations, including IDEA and applicable state guidelines
- Lead the development and refinement of structured, evidence-based instructional frameworks across substantially separate instructional settings
- Collaborate with the district leadership to align programming with the district's improvement plan and strategic goals
Supervision & Evaluation - Directly supervise, mentor, and formally evaluate two district-wide Special Education Coaches, providing ongoing support, professional development, and performance feedback to ensure coaching effectiveness across program sites
- Collaborate with Special Education Coaches to align coaching cycles, classroom support, and instructional priorities with program goals and student outcomes
- Supervise, mentor, and formally evaluate special education teachers, paraprofessionals, and related service providers (e.g., speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, behavior analysts) assigned to substantially separate programs
- Conduct regular classroom observations and provide timely, actionable, and growth-oriented feedback to staff
- Support staff in developing and implementing effective Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that reflect high expectations and meaningful goals
- Lead and facilitate professional development focused on autism supports, positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS), SEL strategies, and life skills instruction
Instructional Leadership - Coach and support educators and instructional staff in the use of evidence-based strategies, including ABA principles, AAC (augmentative and alternative communication), and social-emotional frameworks
- Analyze student performance data to inform instructional decisions, identify trends, and drive program improvements
- Partner with school-based leaders to promote inclusive practices and the continuum of special education services
Family & Community Engagement - Serve as a key point of contact for families of students in substantially separate programs, fostering trust, transparency, and meaningful partnership
- Participate in IEP meetings and transition planning as needed, particularly for students with complex needs
- Facilitate communication between families, school teams, and outside agencies to ensure coordinated and consistent support
Administrative Responsibilities - Manage resources, and materials in alignment with district priorities
- Oversee staffing needs and scheduling for substantially-separate program sites
- Maintain accurate records and data related to program implementation, student outcomes, and staff evaluations
- Assist in the hiring, onboarding, and retention of highly qualified special education personnel
Qualifications Required - Master's degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field
- Valid state licensure/certification in Special Education and/or Administration (e.g., DESE license or equivalent)
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in special education, with demonstrated expertise in autism programming
- Expertise in IEP development, and evidence-based practices for students with autism and complex needs
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
Preferred - Experience supervising or leading special education staff, including instructional coaches
- BCBA certification or equivalent behavioral expertise
- Experience with district-wide program development and implementation
- Familiarity with AAC systems and assistive technology
- Experience working with diverse student populations across multiple school settings
Compensation: Position is included in Malden Education Association Administrative Bargaining Unit (Unit B)
Work Year: 206 days, Starting July 1, 2026 (or earliest possible date)
Reports To: Assistant Superintendent of Student Services/Director of Special Education
To Apply: Submit application online here.
