Director, Student Support Services

Company: Kairos Academies
Location: Chicago
Posted on: April 22, 2025

Job Description:

The Director of Student Support Services provides leadership and oversight to ensure students receive the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support necessary for success. This role is pivotal in fostering a positive school culture and ensuring effective tiered intervention strategies. The Director of Student Support Services collaborates closely with school leaders, educators, and families to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment.Key ResponsibilitiesSpecial Populations Program Management

• Oversee, monitor, and manage all aspects of Special Education, English Language Learners (ELL), Gifted/Talented, and Section 504 processes, including scheduling, IEP writing, transition planning, progress reporting, and compliance.
• Ensure services align with the overall academic vision and provide continuity of support for students in grades 5-12.
• Develop high-quality IEPs and 504 plans with goals aligned to existing curricula and assessments.
• Participate in dispute resolution meetings, hearings, and mediation as needed.
• Serve as a primary liaison for families, maintaining clear and open communication regarding special services.
• Lead the Special Education Parent Advisory Council to foster family engagement and advocacy.School-Based Development and Support
• Collaborate with school leadership, teachers, and service providers to ensure state and federal regulations compliance.
• Support school leaders in ensuring staff effectively implement IEPs and 504 plans with fidelity.
• Work with educators and counselors to develop and track intervention support plans for students with acute needs.
• Provide or arrange professional development for special education teachers and service providers.
• Offer guidance and coaching to special education staff, supporting them in IEP development and student progress monitoring.
• Manage Speech and Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, ABA Therapists, and other contracted service providers.
• Ensure that students receive appropriate testing accommodations and that instructional and social-emotional interventions are research-based and practical.Network Responsibilities
• Model the Kairos Code of Conduct by demonstrating integrity, self-awareness, personal responsibility, and critical consciousness.
• Engage in professional development and network-wide community events.
• Foster a culture of collaboration among staff, students, and families.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
• 100% Departmental compliance with all regulatory requirements
• 85% Cycle priority progress on track
• 85% Stakeholder survey satisfaction
• 75% of CSI population meets growth measuresThis Job Is NOT for You If You Won't---
• Go above and beyond to prioritize student success.
• Take initiative and problem-solve independently.
• Adapt to frequent changes and contribute to continuous improvement.
• Engage in constructive feedback, debate, and collaboration.Who We AreKairos Academies is at the forefront of reimagining 21st-century education. Recognized by Forbes, Bellwether Education, NBC Today, and Education Week for innovation and excellence, our schools replace traditional lecture-based learning with engaging, student-centered projects. Instead of top-down behavior management, we empower students with executive functioning mentorship, guiding them in managing their schedules, work habits, and real-world decision-making. We prepare students to thrive in a modern economy and become self-governing leaders in their communities.Qualifications
• Minimum 3+ years of teaching experience with students with disabilities.
• Strong understanding of federal and state regulations for Special Education, 504 Plans, and ELL services.
• Satisfactory completion of a criminal records check.
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S.Additional Knowledge & Skills
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to coach adults and work collaboratively.
• Commitment to Kairos' mission and values.
• Experience working with diverse populations and needs.
• Adaptability in dynamic school environments.
• Dedication to continuous learning and improvement.Compensation & BenefitsStarting Salary: $70,000 (based on experience)Benefits include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Wellness reimbursement
• School tuition assistanceWork ScheduleMonday - Friday, 7:45 AM - 4:00 PMSome evenings and weekends required.Location & CommuteSaint Louis, MO 63118 - Applicants must reliably commute or be willing to relocate before starting.
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Keywords: Kairos Academies, Chicago , Director, Student Support Services, Executive , Chicago, Illinois