A professional who directs and coordinates special education programs in public school systems, public agencies, and state institutions to teach students with mental or physical disabilities. Responsibilities include:

• Formulates policies and procedures for new or revised programs or activities, such as screening, placement, education, and training of students.
• Evaluates special education programs to ensure that objectives for student education are met.
• Interprets laws, rules, and regulations to students, parents, and staff.
• Recruits, selects, and evaluates staff.
• Prepares budget and solicits funds to provide financial support for programs.
• Prepares reports for federal, state, and local regulatory agencies.
• May contract with agencies for needed services, such as residential care.
• May administer achievement tests to measure student level of performance.