Director of isbe programs - chicago

Merlin Day Academy is seeking an experienced and passionate Director of ISBE Programs to provide leadership, oversight, and strategic direction for our multidisciplinary education and clinical services. The Director of ISBE Programs plays a critical role in ensuring high-quality student care, supporting education and clinical staff, driving operational excellence, and fostering a collaborative, mission-driven culture focused on helping children and families thrive.

Merlin Day Academy offers a unique opportunity for our education and multidisciplinary clinical team to provide services through our fully integrated educational and therapeutic environment for children ages 6-14 years old with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and other neurodiverse needs.

Apply today at threebirdsonemission.com/careers!

About the Role

As Director of ISBE Programs at Merlin Day Academy, you will be responsible for overseeing clinic operations, ensuring quality therapeutic services, mentoring staff, maintaining strong client relationships, and driving a culture of accountability, innovation, and exceptional care.

• Provide leadership and supervision to education and clinical teams and department managers.
• Ensure delivery of exceptional, student-centered care, education and therapeutic services.
• Monitor education and clinical quality, compliance, and regulatory requirements.
• Support staff development, coaching, performance management, and retention initiatives.
• Collaborate with operational leaders to improve efficiency, outcomes, and family satisfaction.
• Develop and implement strategic initiatives to support organizational growth.
• Manage departmental budgets, productivity metrics, and resource allocation.
• Foster strong relationships with students, families, referral sources, and community partners.
• Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, professionalism, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Special Education Teacher, LBS-1 required
• PEL Type 75 endorsement required
• Masters degree required
• Experience working on IEP teams and school leadership experience required

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive Salary: $95,000 - 105,000

Comprehensive Health Coverage (Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance) + Life and Disability Insurance

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Competitive Paid Time Off and holiday allowances

Generous 401k Retirement Plan with employer contributions

Schedule & Location

Set Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm

Set Location: 3319 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (Free onsite parking available)

Why Join Merlin Day Academy?

We are committed to creating meaningful impact for children and families through innovative, compassionate care. Our leaders enjoy the opportunity to shape programs, mentor talented professionals, and help drive our organization's continued growth and success.

Please see our full Director job description attached to this posting, along with details of our competitive benefits package.

Apply today at threebirdsonemission.com/careers to join our mission of empowering children with neurodiverse needs to thrive through our relationship-based, family-centered approach!