Supporting Principals in Effectively Managing Special Education

As the leader of the school, the principal is ultimately responsible for the education of each child, and both teachers and parents rely on them to ensure quality special education in their school. The principal knows the students, knows the parents, and knows the teachers. And it is the principal’s responsibility to create a school environment and culture of inclusiveness that supports all students’ learning.

The principal needs to make sure staff include adequately trained teachers and related services personnel and ensure that the education team meets the specific timelines and requirements for providing special education services.

Unfortunately, many principals still do not receive much training in the fundamentals of special education law or how to create a school culture that effectively supports students with disabilities, as Christina Samuels reported in a recent Education Week article, “The Important Role Principals Play in Special Education.” Many principals reported that their training is primarily gained “on the job.”

Special Education and Principal Collaboration

With the understanding that principals may have limited background in their areas of responsibility related to special education, special education administrators and staff can support principals by working collaboratively, offering guidance, and fostering open, trusting communication. The following are key areas where principals may need additional training and support:

Legal Requirements

• Understand the laws regarding special education, including legal mandates, the special education process, and procedural safeguards to ensure school compliance.
• Lead school staff in meeting Child Find and Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) requirements.

IEP Process

• Navigate the IEP process and ensure effective implementation and progress monitoring.
• Represent the district at IEP team meetings with a clear understanding of roles and responsibilities.
• Collaborate with parents to build positive relationships throughout the IEP process.

Behavior Management

• Develop and implement effective behavior management systems tailored to individual student needs.
• Apply discipline procedures appropriately for students with IEPs and Section 504 plans.

Strategies for Supporting Staff

• Provide professional development resources for general education teachers and paraeducators who work with students with exceptionalities.
• Create a collaborative school environment that promotes partnership between general and special education staff.

How Vector Can Help

To help give principals, general education teachers, and paraeducators the professional development they need to effectively manage and deliver special education services, our Inclusive Instruction and Intervention Library provides expert-authored, online PD courses on a range of topics, including special education law, behavior management, IEPs, instructional strategies, and more.

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