Managing Director Student Supports

About KIPP

KIPP Public Schools is a national network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory public schools committed to partnering with students and families to disrupt systemic educational inequity and create a future without limits. Over 120,000 students attend one of the 280 KIPP schools that operate in 27 regions across the United States. KIPP Philadelphia Schools Public Schools (KPPS) is a part of the national KIPP Public Schools network and currently leads eight schools serving over 3000 students in North and West Philadelphia. By 2030, KPPS will lead ten schools serving approximately 4,000 students. 

Our Mission

Together with families and communities, we create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students to pursue the paths they choose—college, career, and beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and build a more just world. 

Life at KIPP Philly

At KIPP Philly, we know that talented, committed, and culturally competent educators are the driving force behind our students' success. By creating a school experience that affirms identities, celebrates individuality, and challenges every student to grow, our teachers and leaders amplify the potential of every child. We are dedicated to building a professional environment grounded in joy, candor, care, and community—a place where educators can bring their authentic selves, receive world-class development, and collaborate with peers equally devoted to the work. Here’s what you can expect:

• Commitment to Anti-Racism and Equity: Join a team deeply dedicated to anti-racism, equity, and culturally responsive practices, working to eradicate systemic barriers and create truly inclusive environments.

• Joyful and Inclusive Community: Be part of a close-knit, diverse network of educators who value authenticity, collaboration, and mutual respect, fostering an environment where both adults and children can thrive.

• Rewarding Impact: Your dedication and hard work will be recognized through competitive compensation structures, including performance-based bonuses that reward meaningful outcomes.

• Unparalleled Career Growth: Gain access to strategically designed leadership pathways, grounded in research and tailored to help you grow professionally. From one-on-one coaching to high-quality professional development, we’re invested in your future.

• Authentic Leadership: Show up as your authentic self every day, modeling for students the power of embracing their identities and inspiring them to do the same.

• Student-Centered Excellence: We believe strong relationships and precise preparation are critical to increasing learning outcomes. Together, we create joyful, affirming spaces where students and educators excel.

• Comprehensive Support: Experience robust whole-person support, including personalized coaching, mental health resources, and team-building initiatives that nurture professional and personal well-being.

• Comprehensive Benefits: Enjoy a competitive health benefits package, 403B retirement matching, tuition reimbursement for certification, and free access to financial advising services, so you’re supported at every stage of your career.

The Opportunity

The Managing Director of Student Supports (MDSS) sets the vision for special education and intervention programming and policy across all eight KIPP Philly schools, ensuring that students with special needs have access to appropriate, high quality supports and resources. The MDSS ensures that school leaders and Assistant Principals of Student Support have the training, tools, and coaching they need to drive student growth and development while operating in compliance with all local, state and federal regulations. The MDSS will directly manage two Regional Directors of Special Education, will provide close and intensive support to school-based APs of Student Support and Compliance Managers, and will report directly to the Chief Schools Officer.

Key Responsibilities 

Program Design

• Set the vision for, and ensure the consistent, high quality planning and implementation of K-12 special education programming and accompanying systems across the region, including, but not limited to:
  • Tier 2 and Tier 3 curriculum
  • On-site emotional support programming
  • Off-site placement partnerships and protocols
  • Staffing models
• Collaborate with MD of Teaching and Learning to ensure RTI program runs effectively in schools
• Ensure systems and processes are in place to ensure KPPS is always operating in compliance with local, state, and federal law 
• Ensure a comprehensive and fiscally sustainable operating budget that ensures all students’ needs are met

Training & Direct Support

• Work closely with the Director of Student Support to:
  • train Assistant Principals of Student Support, Compliance Managers and Principals on core approaches, programming, and compliance protocols
  • design and facilitate monthly professional development sessions for APs
  • design and facilitate teacher-facing professional development sessions as needed
• Observe and provide feedback to School Leadership teams on a regular basis
• Conduct special education classroom walkthroughs on a regular basis as a means of gathering data and norming with school-based leaders
• Manage and coach the Regional Directors of Special Education

Leadership

• Lead a student support team who embody the mission and beliefs of KPPS
• Collaborate with other Managing Directors and Heads of Schools to lead, support and grow academic programming and create cohesive plans to reach our shared long-term goals
• Strengthen internal operations and infrastructure for effective program delivery
• Liaise with external stakeholders, community agencies, lawyers, and other third party constituencies

• Bachelor’s degree required
• A deep commitment to the mission of KIPP and an unwavering belief in the potential of our students
• 2+ years of experience as an Assistant Principal of Special Education (or like role)
• 2+ years of experience in a regional/district-level special education supervisory role
• Track record of success in driving strong special education models, programming and/or effectively supporting special education staff to drive strong student outcomes
• Experience using data to drive/support a tiered service delivery model (RTI)
• Deep knowledge of intervention curricula and assessment
• Deep knowledge of special education law in PA - maintenance of up-to date field knowledge
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to exercise excellent judgment in decision-making
• Flexible and able to multi-task within a fast-moving, entrepreneurial environment, while also driving towards clarity, simplicity and solutions.

Compensation

• Salary is commensurate with experience. Ranging from $135,000 - $150,000
• Comprehensive benefits package included, including 100% employer-paid health benefits for employees and their families, a 403b matching program, and access to free financial advising services.

Note to Applicants

KIPP Philadelphia Schools is an equal opportunity employer.  Employees are selected on the basis of ability without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, marital status, or sexual orientation, in accordance with federal and state law.