Title:  State Director of Special Education

Overview

The State Director of Special Education provides statewide leadership for special education programs serving students with disabilities across Vermont. This role oversees compliance with the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), guidance from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), and Vermont special education law. The Director works closely with school districts, state agencies, and federal partners to ensure special education services are delivered effectively, lawfully, and equitably.

This position combines policy leadership, compliance oversight, staff management, and fiscal responsibility. The Director leads statewide initiatives, supports local education agencies, and serves as Vermont’s primary subject-matter expert on complex special education issues.

This position is responsible for:

• Leading statewide implementation of federal and state special education requirements, including IDEA and OSEP guidance
• Monitoring local education agencies for compliance with special education laws, timelines, and corrective action requirements
• Overseeing the collection, reporting, and use of confidential student data for federal and state monitoring and accountability
• Managing federal and state grants, contracts, and budgets related to special education programs
• Developing and implementing policies, guidance, and legislative initiatives related to special education
• Supervising staff, setting priorities, developing work plans, and conducting performance evaluations
• Collaborating with the Chief Academic Officer, finance staff, and cross-agency partners to align strategy, funding, and outcomes
• Providing training, technical assistance, and problem-solving support to districts and stakeholders statewide
• Serving as the designated expert on special education law and practice across Vermont state government

The ideal candidate brings:

• Deep knowledge of federal and state special education law and compliance requirements
• Experience overseeing monitoring systems, data reporting, and corrective action processes
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing teams, budgets, and complex initiatives
• The ability to translate legal and regulatory requirements into clear, practical guidance for educators and leaders
• A collaborative approach and comfort working with state, local, and federal partners

This is a high-impact leadership role for someone who wants to shape special education policy and practice statewide while ensuring students with disabilities receive the services and protections they are entitled to under the law.

Who May Apply

This position, State Director of Special Education (Job Requisition #54291), is open to all State employees and external applicants. 
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Erin Davis at erin.davis@vermont.gov.
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.

Environmental Factors

Normal office working conditions generally prevail. Incumbents must be able to interact, work, and deal with Agency staff, school personnel, and state, federal, and local officials. Regular field monitoring is required. Evening and weekend work may be required. Travel will be a regular part of the work.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or higher in education or closely related field AND seven (7) or more years of experience in the field of special education INCLUDING two (2) or more years of experience with planning, policy, program administration or evaluation AND two (2) years or more of supervisory experience.
OR
Two (2) or more years as an Education Assistant Division Director with the Agency of Education.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s or Doctoral degree in special education.
Experience in directing a special education department at the local education agency level.

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.