KIPP Kansas City Public Schools is part of a nationwide network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory charter schools dedicated to preparing students in educationally underserved communities for success in college and life. Our strength as a region serves as a catalyst for empowerment, change, and hope.

Founded in 2007, KIPP Kansas City Public Schools began with KIPP Endeavor Academy, serving approximately 31 fifth-grade students. Today, we educate approximately 1,000 students from Pre-K through 12th grade, with our community continuing to expand. Together with families and communities, we strive to create joyful, academically excellent schools that equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue their chosen paths—whether college, career, or beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and contribute to a more just world.

Position Overview:

The Director of Special Services is responsible for leading and overseeing all regional special education and English Language Learner (ELL) initiatives. This position ensures high-quality programming that aligns with state and federal regulations and supports the academic, social, and emotional success of all students with specialized needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program Leadership and Strategy

  • Develop, implement, and monitor a comprehensive multi-tier support system which includes management of counselors,  social workers, and program case managers.

  • Comply with legal standards and align with KIPP’s mission.

  • Lead strategic planning for special services, setting clear objectives to enhance student achievement and integration within the general education framework.

• Team Management and Development

  • Supervise and evaluate a multidisciplinary team including special education teachers, ELL coordinators, support staff, counselors and social workers.

  • Provide professional development and coaching to ensure staff are well-equipped to deliver high-quality services and instruction.

• Compliance and Advocacy

  • Ensure all special education and ELL programs meet state, federal, and organizational compliance requirements.

  • Advocate for policies and resources that enhance support for special populations, maintaining active communication with stakeholders to ensure programs meet diverse student needs.

• Collaboration and Integration

  • Work closely with school leaders, teachers, and regional directors to integrate special services effectively across all schools.

  • Facilitate collaboration across departments to ensure a holistic approach to student support and curriculum adaptation.

• Data Analysis and Program Evaluation

  • Regularly review program effectiveness using qualitative and quantitative data, making adjustments as necessary to improve outcomes.

  • Prepare and present reports to regional leadership and external bodies as required, detailing program status and progress.

  • Oversees all grant-related work for Student Support Services, including identifying opportunities, writing proposals, managing budgets, and ensuring timely reporting.  

• Community Engagement and Stakeholder Relations

  • Develop and maintain relationships with community organizations, parents, and other stakeholders to support special services initiatives.

  • Engage families in the education process, providing regular updates and building strong partnerships to support student success.

  • Partner with the Director of Grant Development and Community Partnerships.

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s Degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field required.

• Valid EC-12 Special Education Certification and Principal Certification strongly preferred.

• At least 5 years of experience in special education, with a minimum of 3 years in a leadership role overseeing special education or ELL programs.

Skills and Competencies: 

• Commitment to KIPP Kansas City’s mission and values, including a deep belief in the potential of all students.

• Deep understanding of IDEA, Section 504, and other relevant special education and ELL frameworks.

• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to manage diverse teams and complex programs.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to work collaboratively.

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated capacity to use data in decision-making.

Work Environment

• Reports to work Monday-Friday.

• Frequent interruptions and requires the ability to remain focused, flexible, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. 

Travel Requirements:

• Ability to travel to work locations. 

Physical Requirements: 

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. 

• The person in this position needs to be able to move about inside and outside the school or office throughout the workday.

• The candidate is expected to attend conferences, meetings, and training sessions both virtually and in person within the Region. 

Compensation and Benefits:

Salary is based on years of experience, educational background, and level of expertise.