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Assistant Director of Special Programs

Lovington Municipal School District, Lovington, NM, United States


LOVINGTON MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS

Position Assistant Director of Special Programs

Primary Purpose Assist the Director of Special Programs in providing strategic leadership, program development, and operational oversight of district-wide Special Education, Gifted, and related services. This role focuses on systems-level planning, staff supervision, program effectiveness, and resource alignment, while the Compliance Specialist monitors adherence to regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

Master's degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field.

Valid New Mexico Administrative License (or ability to obtain)

Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in special education or related field

Preferred experience in campus or district leadership and supervision of special programs

Knowledge and Skills

Strong knowledge of special education and gifted program design and service delivery models

Working knowledge of IDEA and state regulations (with primary compliance monitoring assigned to Compliance Specialist)

Ability to lead, supervise, and evaluate staff and programs

Strong organizational, leadership, and problem‑solving skills

Ability to manage multiple initiatives, resources, and timelines

Ability to analyze program and student outcome data to guide decisions

Strong communication and collaboration skills across campuses and departments

Ability to design and deliver high‑impact professional development

Major Responsibilities and Duties Program Leadership and Systems Oversight

Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of Special Education, Gifted, and related service programs

Ensure programs are aligned with district priorities, student needs, and best practices

Oversee service delivery models, staffing structures, and program effectiveness across campuses

Collaborate with the Director to set vision, goals, and strategic direction for Special Programs

Staff Supervision and Development

Supervise and evaluate ancillary service providers and designated special program staff

Build staff capacity through coaching, feedback, and leadership development

Plan and coordinate district-wide professional development systems (content may be informed by Compliance Specialist findings)

Support principals in supervising and developing campus-based special education staff

Operational Management and Resource Alignment

Assist in staffing decisions, caseload balancing, and service delivery assignments

Support development and management of budgets, grants, and resource allocationOversee coordination of contracts and related services providers

Ensure efficient systems for scheduling, service delivery, and program implementation

Collaboration and Communication

Serve as a liaison between the Special Programs Department, campuses, and district leadership

Collaborate with families, community partners, and outside agencies to strengthen services

Communicate program expectations, updates, and best practices across the district

Support resolution of complex programmatic or service delivery concerns

Coordination with Compliance Functions

Partner with the Compliance Specialist, who is responsible for monitoring timelines, audits, and corrective actions

Support campuses in implementing systems that prevent compliance issues through strong program design

Use compliance data to inform training, staffing, and program improvements (not primary monitor)

Other Duties as Assigned

Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and required documentation

Comply with federal and state laws, State Board of Education rules, and local board policy

Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures

Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Programs or Superintendent

Physical Requirements

Sitting, standing, lifting, and carrying (up to 50 pounds), reaching, squatting, climbing stairs, kneeling, must be able to see and hear, and moving light furniture may be required.

Safety and Health Requirements

Knowledge of universal hygiene precautions.

Equipment/Material Handled

Must know how to properly operate, or be willing to learn to operate, equipment including current technology.

Additional Requirements Must be able to work within various degrees of noise, temperature, and air quality. Interruptions of work are routine. Job responsibilities include both inside and outside duties. Flexibility and patience are required. Must be self‑motivated and able to complete job assignments without direct supervision.

Salary Administrative Salary Schedule: Program Assistant Director

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