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Assistant State Superintendent of Special Education

Recruitment #25-009627-0006

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Introduction

The Maryland State Department of Education is dedicated to supporting a world-class educational system that prepares all students for college and career success in the 21st century. With excellent stewardship from our divisions, we oversee State and federal programs that support the needs of a diverse population – students, teachers, principals, and other educators throughout Maryland.

This is an Executive Service position, and serves at the pleasure of the Appointing Authority.

GRADE

EPP 0004 

LOCATION OF POSITION

200 W. Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201

Hybrid work environment with regular travel to districts and regional events. 

Note that there is also occasional evening or weekend work for stakeholder engagement or professional development events.

POSITION DUTIES

The Assistant State Superintendent for the Division of Early Intervention and Special Education Services provides strategic leadership to ensure the development, implementation, and oversight of evidence-based programs and policies that support students with disabilities from birth through age 21. This role ensures equitable access to high-quality instruction and services in the least restrictive environment, aligned with federal and state regulations, including IDEA and the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. The position advances the Maryland State Department of Education’s mission by promoting inclusive practices, improving outcomes for students with disabilities, and fostering collaboration across agencies, families, and communities. The Assistant State Superintendent also works collaboratively with other MSDE divisions to ensure that both general and special education teachers receive high-quality, coordinated professional learning that supports inclusive and effective instructional practices.

Position Duties Include:

  • Establishes and leads an innovative early intervention and special education services strategy that aligns with MSDE’s multi-year strategic plan and Blueprint for Maryland’s Future initiatives.
  • Provides student-centered and forward-thinking leadership in the execution of the Department’s mission, strategic planning, and use of data and research for decision making.
  • Oversees the effective and results-oriented operations of the Division branches, including the Performance Support and Technical Assistance Branch, the Policy and Accountability Branch, the Family Support and Dispute Resolution Branch, the Interagency Collaboration Branch, and the Resource Management and Monitoring Branch.
  • Develops and collaborates with Teaching and Learning content branches to deploy initiatives to accelerate student achievement for students with disabilities. 
  • Establishes policy guidance and frameworks to ensure accountability to the provision of early intervention and special education, including actions in response to new legislative policies, and transparent and ongoing communication with stakeholders.
  • Designs and publishes comprehensive MTSS guidance documents, including tiered intervention models, progress monitoring tools, and fidelity checklists.
  • Develops implementation rubrics and self-assessment tools for schools and districts.
  • Leads the development of training modules and toolkits for educators, administrators, and support staff.
  • Ensures accessibility and regular updates of online content to reflect evolving guidance and district needs.
  • Provides fiscal coordination and accountability for all programs and initiatives related to early intervention and special education that includes management of grants; monitor spending for all programs and initiatives; accountability for results, and approving purchases, contracts, and grants through established fiscal policies and procedures.
  • Develops programs for providing statewide technical assistance related to fiscal accountability for funds administered by the Division, ensuring adherence to regulations and fiscal best practices.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Master’s degree in education, special education, educational leadership, school psychology, or a related field

Experience: Five years of progressive leadership experience in special education or early intervention at the district, state, or organizational level

Candidates must also have these qualifications included in their applications materials:

  • Demonstrated expertise in the development and implementation of inclusive policies, programs, and services for students with disabilities, birth through age 21.
  • In-depth knowledge of tiered systems of support, specially designed instruction, and evidence-based academic and behavioral interventions.
  • Experience with data systems, progress monitoring, and implementation science to drive continuous improvement and compliance.
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, collaborate across divisions and agencies, and engage diverse stakeholders including families and community partners.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience working in or with state education agencies.
  • Familiarity with federal and state education policies (e.g., IDEA, ESSA).
  • Knowledge of culturally responsive practices and equity-centered MTSS frameworks.
  • Proficiency in digital content development and website management tools.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must consent to a State Police Investigation (fingerprinting) as a routine procedure for all employees with this Agency.

SELECTION PROCESS

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.

BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

It is preferred that applicants complete the MD State Government online application for employment. The application must clearly demonstrate that the applicant meets the minimum qualifications for the position. If you are unable to apply online, paper applications can be obtained from the link below and be faxed to 410-554-9397 or mailed to MSDE Human Resources Branch, 200 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. If there is a supplemental questionnaire, this must be completed and sent in with your paper application, if you are unable to apply online.

All application materials must be received in our office by the closing date. Postmarks will not be accepted. Applications must be complete to be considered including all related job duties, even if those are also listed on an attached resume. Additional required materials may be uploaded with the online application, submitted to the fax number, or mailed to the Human Resources address listed above.

Inquiries can be made to 410-767-0012, TDD 410-333-3045. Appropriate accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities.

If you have difficulty with your user account or have general questions about this online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850. TTY Users: Call via Maryland Relay.

Proof of eligibility to work is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Any misrepresentation of academic or experience requirements for this position may result in non-selection or termination of employment.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.



Click on a link below to apply for this position:

Fill out the Supplemental Questionnaire and Application NOW using the Internet. Apply Online
View and print the Supplemental Questionnaire. This recruitment requires completion of a supplemental questionnaire. You may view and print the supplemental questionnaire here.
Apply via Paper Application. You may also download and complete the Paper Application here.

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