BASIC FUNCTION
The Assistant Director of Columbia Regional Inclusive Services (CRIS) provides program leadership and operational support for regional services delivered to students with low-incidence disabilities across multiple districts. This role is responsible for supporting and shadowing the Senior Director with the potential for growth into a greater position. This role is responsible for coordinating service delivery and compliance for specific CRIS program areas, supporting the implementation of high-leverage practices aligned with IDEA, and ensuring alignment with state and federal expectations in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Education (ODE). The Assistant Director informs district partners, supervises assigned staff, and contributes to continuous improvement aligned with PPS's racial equity and social justice (RESJ) goals.
REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES
Lead the implementation and improvement of assigned low-incidence service programs (e.g., DHH, BVI, OI, TBI, DeafBlind), ensuring compliance and high-quality service delivery.
Support cross-district collaboration with local special education leaders and ESD partners.
Supervise and evaluate assigned specialists and staff, supporting high performance and equity-aligned practices.
Contribute to budget planning, data reporting, and grant compliance related to assigned program areas.
Coordinate with ODE on operational needs and participate in relevant state-led committees or workgroups.
Provide coaching, consultation, and professional learning to internal staff and district partners to strengthen inclusive practices.
Assist in maintaining program documentation, implementation plans, and continuous improvement cycles. Inform the Senior Director on opportunities and challenges in service implementation and stakeholder engagement.
Represent CRIS in cross-functional PPS meetings and support interdepartmental collaboration. ? Perform other related duties as assigned.
Demonstrate a commitment to the Portland Public Schools Racial Equity and Social Justice Commitment by developing a thorough knowledge and application of the district Racial Educational Equity Policy and other board policies; participate in staff development, in-services and trainings related to diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace and in K – 12 education; model appropriate behaviors; develop, recommend and implement improvements to educational practices with awareness and understanding of their impact in a racially and culturally diverse community.
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
Federal and state regulations related to IDEA and Section 504
Instructional and programmatic supports for students with low-incidence disabilities
Inclusive practices and equity-based service models
Staff supervision, coaching, and evaluation
Program-level budgeting, grant compliance, and reporting Adult learning principles and professional development strategies
Ability to:
Lead implementation of assigned programs aligned with strategic plans and legal mandates
Supervise and coach licensed and classified staff
Analyze data and recommend process improvements
Collaborate effectively with internal teams and external district stakeholders
Communicate clearly across diverse audiences in written and oral formats
Advocate for equitable access and inclusive instructional practices
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Education: Master's degree in special education, educational leadership, or a related field required. Oregon Administrative License issued by the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) or ability to obtain by first day of employment is required. Work experience may be a substitute for a degree.
Experience: Minimum of three (5) years of experience as a licensed school professional. At least one (3) year of experience in an academic/educational leadership role with demonstrated impact on student outcomes. Experience working with students with low-incidence disabilities and in diverse school communities.
Preferred Qualifications: Experience supporting regional or cross-district special education service delivery. Knowledge of early intervention/ECSE practices. Familiarity with ODE reporting and collaboration processes. Background in staff development, coaching, or technical assistance
Any other combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities may be considered.
Special Requirements: Work hours may include on- and off-campus evening and weekend activities and meetings and district, school and student functions. Some positions in this classification may require the use of a personal automobile and possession of a valid Class C Oregon driver's license.
Remote Work Eligibility: Not eligible
FLSA: Classification: Exempt Asst. Director - Academic Programs
Bargaining Unit: Non-Represented
Salary: $151,777 - $163,448
Work Year: 260 days
How To Apply: Please visit https://www.pps.net/jobs and use job number 28648 to access the full job description and apply.
