Company Description
Organizational Overview
By 2025, KIPP DC will build upon two decades of proven results to develop into a more impactful, innovative, and inclusive school system that provides joyful, identity-affirming learning experiences so that all students and alumni achieve extraordinary outcomes.
Our work is grounded in a commitment to excellence, equity, and justice. We believe all students have the right to rigorous, relevant, and joyful learning experiences led by exceptionally talented and diverse educators who promote student achievement and a sense of belonging. We believe students and teachers best succeed when surrounded by an ecosystem of supports, including our central headquarters team that supports KIPP DC’s 20 schools, 7,300 students, and 1,300 teachers, leaders, and staff members dedicated to this mission.
Job Description
Position Overview
Reporting directly to the General Counsel and as part of the Legal Team, the Legal Counsel, Special Education will provide legal advice and representation to KIPP DC, attend meetings and hearings, draft and review contracts and policies, and ensure compliance with federal and state education laws and regulations. Additionally, this role will collaborate directly with administrators, educators, and other stakeholders to address legal issues, develop educational policies, and promote a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Job Responsibilities
- Legal Representation and Litigation Management
- Provide comprehensive legal counsel to KIPP DC on matters pertaining to disability law and special education law.
- Represent KIPP DC in mediations, due process hearings, appeals, and other compliance/litigation forums.
- Interpret federal and state laws, regulations, and legal standards related to special education and Section 504.
- Respond to and communicate with students’ and families’ legal counsel.
- Advise school administrators, educators, and staff members on legal obligations, compliance, and risk management and obtain the correct releases of information.
- Support outside observation requests.
- Manage and oversee special education litigation cases including coordinating with external legal counsel and ensuring compliance with court deadlines and procedures.
- Develop litigation strategies and case management plans in collaboration with KIPP DC General Counsel, KIPP DC leadership and other stakeholders.
- In collaboration with the Student Support Team, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of potential cases, advise on settlement negotiations, and make recommendations regarding the pursuit or resolution of litigation matters.
- Conduct legal research, draft legal pleadings, motions, and briefs, and present oral arguments in court when necessary.
- Maintain accurate and comprehensive case files, documentation, and records related to litigation cases.
- Review KIPP DC’s Special Education Handbooks yearly and stay informed about legal developments, precedents, and emerging trends in special education and Section 504 litigation, and provide proactive guidance to KIPP DC regarding potential impacts and strategies.
- Attend School Meetings
- Attend and represent KIPP DC at student meetings, including Individualized Education Program (IEP) Meetings, and Discipline Meetings.
- Attend relevant school meetings, provide legal advice, and assist in resolving disputes between KIPP DC and parents.
- Review and provide legal guidance on the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Prior Written Notices (PWNs), and/or 504 Plans for students with disabilities.
- Review educational records, assessments, and evaluations and elicit input from the Student Support team to identify potential legal issues and develop appropriate strategies.
- Compliance and Policy Development
- Review KIPP DC policies, procedures, and practices to identify areas for improvement and recommend updates to ensure legal compliance.
- Support and respond to compliance audits conducted by external agencies.
- Provide training and professional development to school staff regarding legal obligations, best practices, and procedural requirements.
- Develop educational resources, guidelines, and best practices to enhance the understanding and compliance of KIPP DC personnel with special education legal requirements.
- Stay updated on changes in special education laws, regulations, and case law, and disseminate relevant information to the appropriate stakeholders.
- Collaborative Partnerships
- Collaborate with school leaders, special education administrators, and other stakeholders to foster positive relationships and effective communication.
- Work closely with school leadership and other departments, such as Student Support Services, Student Policy Team and Employee Policy Team, to address legal issues and promote compliance.
- Collaborate with school leaders, administrators, and other stakeholders to promote inclusive education practices and policy improvements.
- Liaise with external agencies, legal professionals, and advocacy organizations to stay updated on legal developments and best practices in special education law.
Qualifications
REQUIREMENTS:
- Juris Doctor required, Member in good standing of a State Legal Bar (DC required).
- 5-10 years of relevant experience, with prior experience in special education and disability law
- Strong knowledge of federal and state special education laws, regulations, and procedural requirements.
- Experience working in or with schools/ school systems required.
- Effective oral and written communication and advocacy abilities, with the capacity to interact with diverse stakeholders, including parents, educators, and administrative personnel.
- Excellent legal research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Able to manage and supervise multiple cases effectively and independently.
- Strong ability to manage up and exercise judgment in difficult situations.
- A passion for being part of a team-oriented, mission-driven culture.
- Ability to constantly prioritize workflow and make hard trade-offs.
- Comfortable traveling between schools and the headquarters office as needed.
Additional Information
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
KIPP DC offers an extremely competitive compensation and benefits package:
- The anticipated starting salary for this position is $123,246-$152,245. At KIPP DC we strive for clarity, equity, and to be highly competitive. When determining salaries we look at benchmarks in the education and non-profit sector.
- KIPP DC offers a robust benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurances; various voluntary benefits; and employer paid benefits such as short term disability, long term disability, life insurance, and a membership to One Medical.
- KIPP DC also offers a 403(b) retirement account with a 3% employer contribution and a 3% match with vesting after three years.
- Currently, individuals in this role have up to 15 paid time off days, up to 10 paid sick days, and 12 paid holidays. This is subject to change and your exact schedule will be shared in your offer letter.
- As a headquarters team that is focused on being responsive to our schools and meeting the needs of our students and families, we approach our work in a way that reflects these priorities. Schools operate in person and our students and families rely on us for in-person support, and this position will regularly provide on-site support to school teams, frequently partner with other headquarters teams, or regularly work in multiple locations. Because of the nature of the work, this role allows for occasional flexibility. This role will have approximately 20% flexibility to work remotely.
HOW TO APPLY:
Please visit www.kippdc.org to complete an online application (including submission of a resume and cover letter). The start date for this position is immediate. Salary and benefits are competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
KIPP DC Public Schools does not discriminate against, or tolerate discrimination against, employees or applicants for employment on any legally-recognized basis or protected class including, but not limited to, actual or perceived race, color, national origin, immigration status (except as necessary to comply with federal, DC, state, or local law), religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity or expression), marital status (including domestic partnership status), genetic information, political affiliation, pregnancy, family responsibilities, personal appearance, veteran status, uniform service member status, status of being unemployed, status of victim a survivor of domestic violence, sexual offense or stalking, matriculation or any other protected class under federal, state, DC, or local law.
Click here or here to review KIPP DC’s non-discrimination policy and KIPP DC’s Title IX Coordinator’s contact information.