Who We Are

For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services including preschool and school programs, day and residential habilitation, community connections, and employment services are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of people of every background, identity, and ability to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. At Abilities First, you’ll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

Who We Need 

Abilities First is seeking an Assistant Director of Education. This position will work collaboratively with the Director of Education to oversee the provision of all educational services provided throughout all education programs. This includes but is not limited to leadership, administration, and supervision of staff (related service providers, teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrative supportive staff), overseeing the daily operational functions, fiscal accountability, and developing goals and objectives in accordance with the agency’s mission. The Assistant Director will schedule regular program site visits and serve as back up Building Administrator in the absence of a Principal.

Schedule: 

This is a full-time position, 40 hours a week at 52 weeks a year, following an agency calendar.

Salary Range: 

$115,000.00 - $120,000.00

Responsibilities: 

• Assists the Director of Education with the operational oversight of all Abilities First education programs and services. Represents Abilities First in the absence of the Director at public meetings, events, community forums, etc. as warranted.
• Provides building coverage in the absence of principals. 
• Aligns all sites with the organization’s educational mission, strategic plan, and policies.
• Serves as a key member of the education leadership team.
• Assists the Director with the creation of new education services or the expansion of existing services.
• Assumes direct supervision of the Related Services Coordinator; ensures evaluation of related service providers.
• Assess staffing needs and assists with hiring, onboarding, and professional development of instructional and related service staff.
• Provides leadership, supervision, evaluation, and professional development for staff.
• Supports and assists with organizing leadership and Principal meetings, including agenda development.
• In collaboration with the Director, coordinates family engagement, communication with staff and stakeholders, and resolution of concerns across sites.
• Leads staff in achieving special education goals aligned with the strategic plan.
• Conducts needs assessments; analyzes data to improve programs, services, and operations.
• Researches trends and best practices to support innovative, effective programming.
• Collaborates with school districts and external agencies serving students with disabilities.
• Ensures delivery of high-quality instruction and access to core curriculum for all students.
• Collaborates with families and professionals to develop and support effective IEPs.
• Evaluates systems and recommends improvements for efficiency and effectiveness.
• Ensures staff attain and maintain required certifications and licensure.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and agency policies.
• Maintains a safe environment and adheres to all safety protocols.
• Ensures all required trainings and certifications required are current, and seeks further support and training where needed.
• Incorporate core concepts of person-centered excellence by respecting people’s concerns and responding accordingly and uses “teachable moments” to assist people in understanding and exercising their rights. 
• Ensures that employees follow the Code of Ethical and Legal Behavior and conform to the strictest standards of Corporate Compliance, HIPAA and FERPA, as well as all federal, state, local and municipal laws and regulations.
• Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard to personal safety and the safety of others. 
• Performs other appropriate job-related activities as required by the supervisor or as circumstances warrant.

Physical Demands 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job and are not meant to be all inclusive. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job.

Unless reasonable accommodations can be made, in order to perform the essential functions of this job, an individual shall be required to:

1. Have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs., bend, squat, bend the knees, pivot, and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying techniques).
2. Lift individuals by using appropriate techniques, including but not limited to usage of tools or equipment to assist, such as the Hoyer Lift.
3. Assist individuals in ambulation by providing physical assistance, including use of a gait belt or other equipment where necessary.
4. Have the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
5. Have the ability to push, pull, and maneuver individuals in wheelchairs.
6. Possess verbal and written communication skills, in English, to ensure adequate regulatory documentation.

1. Position requires Master’s Degree in Education with New York State Certification in Educational Administration as a School Building Leader (SBL) or School District Administrator (SDA); A minimum of three years’ experience as School Building Leader (SBL) or School District Administrator (SDA) required. 
2. Teaching experience in a Special Education environment, preferably with the integration of students with disabilities into the community required.
3. Demonstrated knowledge of State Education Department rules and regulations, New York State Education Law, the commissioner’s Part 200 Regulations, and special education law
4. Knowledge of curriculum development and experience in clinical supervision of professional and nonprofessional staff
5. Familiarity with community resources to assist in the integration of students with disabilities into the community
6. Ability to interrelate with non-agency personnel in various matters concerning the school
7. Strong public speaking skills desirable