EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF OFFICE OF SPECIAL SERVICES
Centralia School District, Port Orchard, WA, United States
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – OFFICE OF SPECIAL SERVICES
The South Kitsap School District is seeking an Executive Director to provide executive-level support for the Office of Special Services and to shape how special education feels and functions across the district. The position reports to the District Superintendent and serves as the district’s primary special education leader at the cabinet/executive level, managing all special education programs and aligning them with district priorities and values. This leadership role will work directly with schools, families, staff, and community partners to build inclusive, equitable, and high‑impact special education services.
Contact & Reporting
Reports To: Superintendent
Bargaining Unit: NRSUP
Department: Office of Special Services
Employment Type: Certificated
Salary Schedule: 25‑26 NRSUP
Salary Range: $193,165 — $202,495
FLSA Status: Salary
Hours per Day: 8.0
Days Per Year: 248 (+12 Holidays) = 260
Overview Belonging is a core value in the South Kitsap School District. We are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students and staff. We actively seek to understand the complex and rich identities of self and others and lean into and engage in courageous conversations. We know the educational environment is enhanced when diverse groups of people with unique ideas come together to learn and grow.
The position is for the 2026/2027 school year that begins July 1, 2026.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Culture and Leadership
Provide strong leadership and innovation in special education and curriculum‑related areas.
Demonstrate in‑depth knowledge of special education, both in instructional and administrative areas.
Establish and model a culture of responsiveness, collaboration, and problem‑solving with families and staff.
Set expectations for service, communication, and partnership across the system.
Lead department vision aligned with district priorities and values.
Strategic Direction
Develop a multi‑year strategy for strengthening special education services and outcomes.
Identify system improvements related to MTSS, inclusion, and student success.
Monitor key indicators (student outcomes, compliance, family experience).
District Leadership & Alignment
Ensure alignment between Special Education, Teaching and Learning, Student Support, and building leadership.
Advise the superintendent and board on major initiatives, trends, and needs.
Communicate effectively, both orally and in written form, with a wide diversity of staff, students and parents/community.
Serve as a member of the Superintendent’s cabinet.
Family & Community Relationships
Build trust and partnership with families and advocacy groups.
Lead communication during complex or sensitive situations.
Represent the district in community and regional special education work.
Work in partnership with diverse groups to provide communication, secure support, and promote the mission of special education.
Personal Leadership
Supervise the Assistant Director and other central office leaders in Special Education.
Support principals in navigating challenging situations involving services or staffing.
Recruit and retain strong special education leadership and staff.
Maintain strong professional and ethical standards and relationships with staff, students and parents.
Effectively facilitate group planning work.
Effectively supervise and evaluate both certificated and classified staff.
Work collaboratively with Human Resources to manage staffing allocations and hiring of related services staff.
Coordinate and supervise all the special education programs in the district, including staff evaluations.
Implement curriculum, program planning, pre‑service and in‑service training for special education teachers.
Coordinate and supervise assigned components of the special education program, including staff evaluations.
Evaluate all special education programs, facilities, curriculum, learning activities, materials and supplies, parent relationships, and teaching practices.
Fiscal & Resource Leadership
Oversee the special education budget and allocations of resources.
Ensure funding decisions support both compliance and student outcomes.
Research and develop projects, including grant procurement, and present resulting reports to a variety of audiences.
Maintain necessary records for proper fiscal management.
Accountability & Compliance Oversight
Ensure systems meet state and federal requirements.
Monitor compliance trends and proactively address concerns.
Accurately interpret federal law and state rules and regulations as they relate to special education compliance.
Manage state and federal grant programs in the area of special education.
Ensure compliance of district programs with applicable state and federal regulations.
Education and Experience
Current Washington State administrative credential and valid teaching certificate.
Minimum of three (3) years of successful experience working in special education or related programs preferred.
Successful experience as a teacher and administrator in public schools.
Principal experience preferred.
Job‑related experience with increasing levels of responsibility is required.
Expertise to perform multiple technical tasks.
Experience with database systems as they relate to special education, staffing and education.
Experience and training in special education state reporting.
Skills and Abilities
Broad knowledge of curriculum and instruction programs with emphasis on special education; extensive knowledge of state and federal regulations related to special education services.
Ability to manage fiscal resources, develop budgets and allocate resources accordingly to meet the needs of students within the assigned area of responsibility.
Serve as a liaison between central office and schools/work sites to fulfill the district’s instructional vision.
Strong oral and written communication skills; strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
Plan, execute, and manage strategic priorities from inception to conclusion.
Requirements
Requisite education and experience to successfully perform the duties required.
Demonstrates successful, recent leadership experience overseeing and implementing a variety of District‑wide programs.
Demonstrates ability to establish relationships and work effectively with diverse stakeholders within the school system and community.
Demonstrates leadership and experience in supervision and evaluation of staff.
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
Strong analytical skills and abilities to scope and solve problems.
Demonstrates leadership in supervision, budgeting, planning, organization, goal setting and results.
Passion for building a positive culture and developing and maintaining collaborative working relationships.
Demonstrate ability to create and implement new systems or changes through collaborative efforts to enhance adoption and minimize resistance.
Acts with integrity in upholding, modeling, and establishing accountability for high professional and ethical standards.
Competencies
Teamwork – open to others’ views, gives and welcomes appropriate feedback, contributes to a positive team spirit, puts team success above own interests.
Planning/Organizing – prioritizes and plans work activities, uses time efficiently, plans for additional resources, conserves organizational resources.
Computer Skills – knowledge of computer operating systems.
Customer Service – maintains professional demeanor with difficult or emotional situations, responds promptly to staff, student and public needs, solicits feedback.
Mathematical Skills – ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure.
Interpersonal Skills – keeps emotions under control, remains open to others’ ideas, shows respect for cultural differences, promotes a harassment‑free environment.
Oral and Written Communication – listens, clarifies, responds well to questions, participates in meetings, reads and comprehends written and verbal instructions, writes clearly.
Professionalism – approached in a tactful manner, reacts well under pressure, treats others with respect, accepts responsibility, follows through on commitments.
Quality – demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness, looks for ways to improve and promote quality, applies feedback.
Safety and Security – observes procedures, reports unsafe conditions, uses equipment properly.
Attendance/Punctuality – consistently at work and on time.
Dependability – follows instructions, responds to management direction, takes responsibility for own actions, meets commitments, follows policies.
Working Conditions and Physical Demands Work is performed primarily in an office environment and requires prolonged periods of sitting, some walking, standing, telephone and in‑person contact. Physical demands include lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and fine finger dexterity. Overall, the job requires approximately 70% sitting, 15% walking and 15% standing, with minimal temperature variations.
Clearances
Washington State Patrol and FBI Fingerprint Background clearance.
Other Requirements
Availability to work more than 40 hours per week.
Completed online application (with supporting documents).
Excellent punctuality and attendance record.
THIS JOB SPECIFICATION SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO IMPLY THAT THESE REQUIREMENTS ARE THE EXCLUSIVE STANDARDS OF THE POSITION. INCUMBENTS MAY BE REQUIRED TO FOLLOW ANY OTHER INSTRUCTIONS AND PERFORM ANY OTHER RELATED DUTIES AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY THEIR SUPERVISOR.
Health Benefits Information Most positions within the South Kitsap School District are governed by collective bargaining agreements that specify the benefits related to employment with the district, including insurance provisions, vacations, holidays, and other related benefits. For more information about benefits, please visit SEBB or SEBB Enrollment Guide or contact Payroll and Benefits Department at (360) 874‑7028 or payrollstaff@skschools.org.
Application Procedure Complete the online application at www.skschools.org and apply to the position(s) you are qualified for within your online application. Positions close at 4:00 p.m. on the final day of posting. Your online application and required District Testing (if applicable) must be submitted by the closing date for consideration. For assistance, contact Human Resources at (360) 874‑7074 or skjobs@skschools.org.
Equal Opportunity Statement The South Kitsap School District provides equal educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably‑discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation – including gender expression or identity, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Equal access to activities, facilities and programs is provided to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups. District procedure complies with all applicable state and federal laws.
Compliance Coordinators Title IX Officer and Section 504 Coordinator
Compliance/ADA/Title IX Coordinator: Will Sarett, Executive Director of Human Resources, 2689 Hoover Ave SE, Port Orchard, WA 98366, 360‑874‑7071, sarett@skschools.org
Section 504 Coordinator: Cristin Blaskowitz, Director of Special Services, 2689 Hoover Ave SE, Port Orchard, WA 98366, 360‑443‑3625, blaskowitz@skschools.org
Gender Inclusivity Compliance Officer: Monica Zuber, Assistant Superintendent for School Leadership, 2689 Hoover Ave SE, Port Orchard, WA 98366, 360‑874‑7003, zuber@skschools.org.
Translation Services South Kitsap School District will also take steps to assure that persons who lack English language skills can participate in all education programs, services, and activities. For information regarding translational bilingual education programs, contact the Executive Director of Teaching and Learning at (360) 874‑7050.
Documentation All Employees are required to furnish proof of identity and employment authorization status. The South Kitsap School District is committed to providing a drug‑free, tobacco‑free environment for all students, community members, and staff. Any offer of employment is conditional on a successful FBI and Washington State Patrol fingerprint background check.
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Contact & Reporting
Reports To: Superintendent
Bargaining Unit: NRSUP
Department: Office of Special Services
Employment Type: Certificated
Salary Schedule: 25‑26 NRSUP
Salary Range: $193,165 — $202,495
FLSA Status: Salary
Hours per Day: 8.0
Days Per Year: 248 (+12 Holidays) = 260
Overview Belonging is a core value in the South Kitsap School District. We are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students and staff. We actively seek to understand the complex and rich identities of self and others and lean into and engage in courageous conversations. We know the educational environment is enhanced when diverse groups of people with unique ideas come together to learn and grow.
The position is for the 2026/2027 school year that begins July 1, 2026.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Culture and Leadership
Provide strong leadership and innovation in special education and curriculum‑related areas.
Demonstrate in‑depth knowledge of special education, both in instructional and administrative areas.
Establish and model a culture of responsiveness, collaboration, and problem‑solving with families and staff.
Set expectations for service, communication, and partnership across the system.
Lead department vision aligned with district priorities and values.
Strategic Direction
Develop a multi‑year strategy for strengthening special education services and outcomes.
Identify system improvements related to MTSS, inclusion, and student success.
Monitor key indicators (student outcomes, compliance, family experience).
District Leadership & Alignment
Ensure alignment between Special Education, Teaching and Learning, Student Support, and building leadership.
Advise the superintendent and board on major initiatives, trends, and needs.
Communicate effectively, both orally and in written form, with a wide diversity of staff, students and parents/community.
Serve as a member of the Superintendent’s cabinet.
Family & Community Relationships
Build trust and partnership with families and advocacy groups.
Lead communication during complex or sensitive situations.
Represent the district in community and regional special education work.
Work in partnership with diverse groups to provide communication, secure support, and promote the mission of special education.
Personal Leadership
Supervise the Assistant Director and other central office leaders in Special Education.
Support principals in navigating challenging situations involving services or staffing.
Recruit and retain strong special education leadership and staff.
Maintain strong professional and ethical standards and relationships with staff, students and parents.
Effectively facilitate group planning work.
Effectively supervise and evaluate both certificated and classified staff.
Work collaboratively with Human Resources to manage staffing allocations and hiring of related services staff.
Coordinate and supervise all the special education programs in the district, including staff evaluations.
Implement curriculum, program planning, pre‑service and in‑service training for special education teachers.
Coordinate and supervise assigned components of the special education program, including staff evaluations.
Evaluate all special education programs, facilities, curriculum, learning activities, materials and supplies, parent relationships, and teaching practices.
Fiscal & Resource Leadership
Oversee the special education budget and allocations of resources.
Ensure funding decisions support both compliance and student outcomes.
Research and develop projects, including grant procurement, and present resulting reports to a variety of audiences.
Maintain necessary records for proper fiscal management.
Accountability & Compliance Oversight
Ensure systems meet state and federal requirements.
Monitor compliance trends and proactively address concerns.
Accurately interpret federal law and state rules and regulations as they relate to special education compliance.
Manage state and federal grant programs in the area of special education.
Ensure compliance of district programs with applicable state and federal regulations.
Education and Experience
Current Washington State administrative credential and valid teaching certificate.
Minimum of three (3) years of successful experience working in special education or related programs preferred.
Successful experience as a teacher and administrator in public schools.
Principal experience preferred.
Job‑related experience with increasing levels of responsibility is required.
Expertise to perform multiple technical tasks.
Experience with database systems as they relate to special education, staffing and education.
Experience and training in special education state reporting.
Skills and Abilities
Broad knowledge of curriculum and instruction programs with emphasis on special education; extensive knowledge of state and federal regulations related to special education services.
Ability to manage fiscal resources, develop budgets and allocate resources accordingly to meet the needs of students within the assigned area of responsibility.
Serve as a liaison between central office and schools/work sites to fulfill the district’s instructional vision.
Strong oral and written communication skills; strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
Plan, execute, and manage strategic priorities from inception to conclusion.
Requirements
Requisite education and experience to successfully perform the duties required.
Demonstrates successful, recent leadership experience overseeing and implementing a variety of District‑wide programs.
Demonstrates ability to establish relationships and work effectively with diverse stakeholders within the school system and community.
Demonstrates leadership and experience in supervision and evaluation of staff.
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
Strong analytical skills and abilities to scope and solve problems.
Demonstrates leadership in supervision, budgeting, planning, organization, goal setting and results.
Passion for building a positive culture and developing and maintaining collaborative working relationships.
Demonstrate ability to create and implement new systems or changes through collaborative efforts to enhance adoption and minimize resistance.
Acts with integrity in upholding, modeling, and establishing accountability for high professional and ethical standards.
Competencies
Teamwork – open to others’ views, gives and welcomes appropriate feedback, contributes to a positive team spirit, puts team success above own interests.
Planning/Organizing – prioritizes and plans work activities, uses time efficiently, plans for additional resources, conserves organizational resources.
Computer Skills – knowledge of computer operating systems.
Customer Service – maintains professional demeanor with difficult or emotional situations, responds promptly to staff, student and public needs, solicits feedback.
Mathematical Skills – ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure.
Interpersonal Skills – keeps emotions under control, remains open to others’ ideas, shows respect for cultural differences, promotes a harassment‑free environment.
Oral and Written Communication – listens, clarifies, responds well to questions, participates in meetings, reads and comprehends written and verbal instructions, writes clearly.
Professionalism – approached in a tactful manner, reacts well under pressure, treats others with respect, accepts responsibility, follows through on commitments.
Quality – demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness, looks for ways to improve and promote quality, applies feedback.
Safety and Security – observes procedures, reports unsafe conditions, uses equipment properly.
Attendance/Punctuality – consistently at work and on time.
Dependability – follows instructions, responds to management direction, takes responsibility for own actions, meets commitments, follows policies.
Working Conditions and Physical Demands Work is performed primarily in an office environment and requires prolonged periods of sitting, some walking, standing, telephone and in‑person contact. Physical demands include lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and fine finger dexterity. Overall, the job requires approximately 70% sitting, 15% walking and 15% standing, with minimal temperature variations.
Clearances
Washington State Patrol and FBI Fingerprint Background clearance.
Other Requirements
Availability to work more than 40 hours per week.
Completed online application (with supporting documents).
Excellent punctuality and attendance record.
THIS JOB SPECIFICATION SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO IMPLY THAT THESE REQUIREMENTS ARE THE EXCLUSIVE STANDARDS OF THE POSITION. INCUMBENTS MAY BE REQUIRED TO FOLLOW ANY OTHER INSTRUCTIONS AND PERFORM ANY OTHER RELATED DUTIES AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY THEIR SUPERVISOR.
Health Benefits Information Most positions within the South Kitsap School District are governed by collective bargaining agreements that specify the benefits related to employment with the district, including insurance provisions, vacations, holidays, and other related benefits. For more information about benefits, please visit SEBB or SEBB Enrollment Guide or contact Payroll and Benefits Department at (360) 874‑7028 or payrollstaff@skschools.org.
Application Procedure Complete the online application at www.skschools.org and apply to the position(s) you are qualified for within your online application. Positions close at 4:00 p.m. on the final day of posting. Your online application and required District Testing (if applicable) must be submitted by the closing date for consideration. For assistance, contact Human Resources at (360) 874‑7074 or skjobs@skschools.org.
Equal Opportunity Statement The South Kitsap School District provides equal educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably‑discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation – including gender expression or identity, marital status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Equal access to activities, facilities and programs is provided to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups. District procedure complies with all applicable state and federal laws.
Compliance Coordinators Title IX Officer and Section 504 Coordinator
Compliance/ADA/Title IX Coordinator: Will Sarett, Executive Director of Human Resources, 2689 Hoover Ave SE, Port Orchard, WA 98366, 360‑874‑7071, sarett@skschools.org
Section 504 Coordinator: Cristin Blaskowitz, Director of Special Services, 2689 Hoover Ave SE, Port Orchard, WA 98366, 360‑443‑3625, blaskowitz@skschools.org
Gender Inclusivity Compliance Officer: Monica Zuber, Assistant Superintendent for School Leadership, 2689 Hoover Ave SE, Port Orchard, WA 98366, 360‑874‑7003, zuber@skschools.org.
Translation Services South Kitsap School District will also take steps to assure that persons who lack English language skills can participate in all education programs, services, and activities. For information regarding translational bilingual education programs, contact the Executive Director of Teaching and Learning at (360) 874‑7050.
Documentation All Employees are required to furnish proof of identity and employment authorization status. The South Kitsap School District is committed to providing a drug‑free, tobacco‑free environment for all students, community members, and staff. Any offer of employment is conditional on a successful FBI and Washington State Patrol fingerprint background check.
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