Education Director

Company: River Rock Academy
Location: Harrisburg
Posted on: April 19, 2025

Job Description:

Job Title: Education Director at River Rock Academy IDS

Location: Harrisburg, PA, 17104

Join River Rock Academy, a Pennsylvania Department of Education Approved Licensed Academic School and Private Provider, dedicated to empowering students in Grades 1-12 through transformative educational services. Our programs for Elementary, Secondary Special Education, and Alternative Education offer specialized instruction, test preparation, counseling, and social skills development. With individualized transition plans and a focus on stability and personal growth, we celebrate student success and foster an environment of trust and support, helping each student reach their full potential.

Why Join Us?

• Weekday Schedule - Work Monday through Friday with a consistent school-based schedule, no nights or weekends required.
• Paid School Breaks & Time Off - Enjoy paid school breaks, holidays, and personal time off, ensuring time to recharge and reset.
• Comprehensive Benefits- Access health, dental, and vision insurance, plus employer-paid short-term disability, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts (FSA/HSA).
• Financial Perks- Benefit from a 401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% company match, plus employer-paid HSA contributions and life & disability insurance.
• Professional Development- Advance your career with tuition reimbursement, mentorship programs, leadership training, and pathways to grow into teaching or behavioral health roles.
• Supportive Team- Collaborate with educators, specialists, and therapists in a positive, inclusive environment with annual awards, Teammate Appreciation Week, and team-building events.
• Make an Impact- Help students with special needs build life skills, confidence, and independence in a supportive school environment. Your Role as a Education Director
  
  IEP Oversight and Compliance:
  • Provide specialized IEP training, support, and oversight to River Rock Academy educational staff.
  • Develop and implement systems to ensure IEPs and related documentation are completed at intake and remain compliant with all regulations.
  • Track and monitor IEP caseloads and required documentation, including FBAs, PBSPs, Reevaluations (RR), NOREPs, Manifestation Determinations, and KTEAs.
  • Conduct regular student file audits in partnership with the Campus Director and the Program Director. Teacher Training and Instructional Support:
    • Train both Special and General Education teachers on IEP processes in accordance with PDE requirements.
    • Support teachers in aligning instruction to Common Core standards and assist in curriculum development.
    • Ensure timely submission of lesson plans; conduct formal teacher observations and routine classroom walkthroughs, reviewing and discussing feedback with staff and the Campus Director. Assessment and Student Progress Monitoring:
      • Oversee administration of KTEA testing upon student entry and discharge.
      • Ensure each student has at least two completed career strands and assist in sending documentation to district representatives. Program and Licensing Compliance:
        • Help ensure compliance with PDE licensing requirements.
        • Collaborate with Campus and Regional Directors to implement and monitor Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). Mission Alignment and Ethical Standards:
          • Support and align with the organization's mission, values, and educational goals.
          • Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and all organizational privacy policies.
          • Understand and follow mandated reporting laws related to suspected child abuse or neglect. Professional Conduct and Collaboration:
            • Maintain professional boundaries and respectful communication with students, families, colleagues, and guests.
            • Use the organization's facilities, equipment, and supplies responsibly and respectfully.
            • Promote a cooperative, positive work environment through effective, solution-oriented communication.
            • Identify and communicate issues promptly while engaging in constructive problem-solving.
            • Remain open to supervision, feedback, and alternative perspectives to support ongoing professional development.
            • Adhere to all company policies and procedures related to both staff conduct and youth care.
              Required Qualifications:

              • Bachelor's degree in education, educational leadership, human resources or related field with extensive experience.
              • PA Special Education Teaching Certification or Supervisor of Special Education Certificate OR minimum of five years in a leadership role working with children with learning and behavioral challenges, including at least three years of teaching and/or supervisory experience.
              • Prior leadership, supervisory or administrative experience in an educational environment
              • Strong understanding with various curricula, Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and Behavior Plans.
              • In-depth knowledge of special education laws, regulations, and best practices.
              • Experience with MTSS, Common Core standards, and curriculum development.
              • Familiarity with PA Department of Education regulations.
              • Understanding of HIPAA, FERPA, and mandated reporting responsibilities.
                Preferred (Nice to Have) Qualifications:

                • Master's degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field.
                • Administrative certification (e.g., Principal or Supervisor of Special Education).
                • Understanding of mental health services and support systems.
                • Experience in curriculum development for children with special education needs.
                • Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
                • Knowledge of common behavioral disorders in children and adolescents.
                • Excellent communication, problem-solving, leadership, and organizational skills.
                • Professional appearance and demeanor. Ready to Make an Impact? Apply Today!
                  
                  At River Rock Academy, we are committed to diversity, inclusion, and creating a supportive, drug-free workplace. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Join our team and help shape a brighter future for students with special needs!
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Keywords: River Rock Academy, Silver Spring , Education Director, Executive , Harrisburg, Maryland