Principal, Special Education Connections at Orange County Department of Education
About the Employer
The Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) serves some of Orange County’s most vulnerable student populations and provides support and mandated fiscal oversight to 28 school districts serving more than 600 schools and approximately 475,000 students. In addition to providing direct instruction to students through its own alternative and special education programs, OCDE administers an array of programs and services that are critical to the operations of local school districts and community colleges, facilitating professional development, legal guidance, payroll, career and technical education support, high-speed internet access, Local Control and Accountability Plan assistance and approval, resources for families, and student enrichment. OCDE’s vision is that “Orange County students will lead the nation in college and career readiness and success.” Department staff are working to achieve this goal in collaboration with educators at all levels of student development, from early childhood through higher education, and in partnership with families, businesses and community organizations.
Job Summary
Job Summary
Are you an inspiring educational leader who believes deeply in the potential of every student and understands the power of exceptional special education programs to change lives? The Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) is seeking a compassionate, experienced, and student-centered leader to serve as Principal, Special Education Services – Connections. This is a unique opportunity for an accomplished special education leader to lead with purpose while supporting students with the most extensive support needs, the families who advocate for them, and the dedicated professionals who serve them every day. As Principal, you will provide instructional and operational leadership across Connections school sites, guiding highly specialized educational programs designed around the individual strengths and needs of students. You will lead and develop exceptional teams, champion high-quality instruction and positive behavioral supports, oversee the implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), strengthen professional learning communities, and foster a culture where collaboration, continuous growth, and student success are shared priorities. Just as important, you will build meaningful relationships with families, school districts, community partners, and staff. You will have the opportunity to create strong home-school partnerships, promote inclusive opportunities for students, and support successful transitions as students move into adult, district, and other educational programs. We are looking for a leader who brings both expertise and heart to this work, someone who listens, builds trust, develops people, navigates complex challenges thoughtfully, and keeps students at the center of every decision. The ideal candidate understands that great leadership is not only about managing programs; it is about creating the conditions for students and staff to thrive.
Requirements / Qualifications
Education, Training and Experience: A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined above is: Five years of increasingly responsible educational experience including two years of administrative experience in a public school setting. Master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in education, behavior management, education administration, or a related field. LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: A valid California Credential authorizing service in a public school program. A valid California Administrative Credential.
Requirements / Qualifications
Education, Training and Experience: A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined above is: Five years of increasingly responsible educational experience including two years of administrative experience in a public school setting. Master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in education, behavior management, education administration, or a related field. LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: A valid California Credential authorizing service in a public school program. A valid California Administrative Credential.
Comments and Other Information
Requirements for Consideration
Completed Edjoin application - Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the completed online application.
Comments and Other Information
Requirements for Consideration
Completed Edjoin application - Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the completed online application.
Application Deadline
8/28/2026 11:55 PM Pacific
Date Posted
8/13/2026
Contact
Number of Openings
1
Salary
Pay Range
$664.87 - $810.91 Daily
$664.87 - $810.91 Daily
Length of Work Year
215
Employment Type
Full Time