About this role
Nahant Public Schools | Nahant, MA Please note this is a Nahant Public Schools, Johnson Elementary School Position: Director of Special Education & 504 Schedule: Part-Time: (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays) Start Date: immediate with overlap with current contracted Director Reports To: Superintendent and Johnson Elementary School Principal Nahant Public Schools is seeking a collaborative, knowledgeable, and student-centered leader to serve as our part-time Director of Special Education. This role provides a unique opportunity to shape and strengthen special education services in our coastal community where relationships, responsiveness, and student success are at the heart of our work. We are looking for a special education director who is passionate about inclusive practices and eager to make a meaningful impact on students ages 3–22 and maintain high expectations with both students and staff. Qualifications (Required):
• Massachusetts DESE licensure as Administrator of Special Education
• Master's degree in Special Education or related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in special education teaching
• Strong knowledge of special education law, IEP development, and compliance requirements
• Strong knowledge of special education testing, data analysis, and compliant reporting
• Commitment to inclusive practices and equitable access for all learners
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
• Provides families/caregivers guidance and knowledge to support their child's education
• Ability to lead with a student-centered, solutions-oriented mindset
• Fosters a supportive, approachable presence and works alongside teachers in classrooms to strengthen instruction
Preferred Qualifications:
• Massachusetts DESE Administrator licensure (or willingness to obtain with district support and mentorship)
• Experience with program development, staffing, and budgeting
• Experience supervising staff and coordinating related service providers
• Demonstrated success supporting staff in implementing special education curriculum and improving student outcomes through data-driven practices
Responsibilities:
• Lead and oversee all special education services for students ages 3–22, including in-district and out-of-district programming
• Ensure compliance with all federal and state special education laws and regulations
• Review, approve, and monitor IEPs, evaluations, and required reporting
• Supervise and support special education staff, contracted providers, and placements
• Serve as a trusted liaison for families, ensuring clear communication and equitable, inclusive services
• Collaborate with the Superintendent and Principal on program planning, staffing, and budgeting
• Represent Nahant students in team meetings across district lines
• Coordinate and support professional development for special education and general education staff
• Ensure programming is aligned to grade-level standards while meeting individual student needs
• Supports LRE through inclusive practices and effective co-teaching models
• Support the continued development of inclusive and co-teaching practices across the district
• Building 504 coordinator
• Title IX
Why You'll Love Working Here: Small district, big impact: Build strong relationships and see the direct results of your leadership in our elementary school of 180 students PreK-6 with a small number of out of district placements. Ideal schedule: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with Friday-Monday off Supportive leadership team: Work closely with the Superintendent and Principal Mentorship & growth: Ideal for aspiring administrators or those maintaining licensure Community-centered: A very small and welcoming seaside town where students and families are highly valued and supported About Us: Nahant Public Schools is a small, student-centered district serving a coastal community. At Johnson Elementary School, we are proud to be a PBIS + SEL-focused school where collaboration, high expectations, and kindness guide our work. We believe every student can succeed, and we are committed to providing inclusive, high-quality educational experiences that support both academic and social-emotional growth. How to Apply: Please submit your application, including:
• Resume
• Cover letter
• 3 references (1- direct supervisor)
Applications should be submitted through SchoolSpring – TalentEd. Hiring contact: Heather Castonguay, M.Ed.