Special Education Coordinator

Starting Date: Jul 1, 2026

TITLE:
SPECIAL EDUCATION COORDINATOR

TYPE :
Chicopee Education Association Unit B, Category I

SALARY: Per the Unit B Collective Bargaining Agreement

STATUS: Non-Exempt

WORK YEAR: 12 Months

REPORTS TO :
Director of Special Education

OBJECTIVE:

The Special Education Coordinator supports the Director of Special Education in the development, coordination, supervision, and evaluation of a comprehensive continuum of special education programs and services. The Coordinator provides district wide leadership to ensure students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE) and that all programs operate in compliance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations.

• Support the development, implementation, and evaluation of inclusive and substantially separate special education programs, including alternatives to out-of-district placements.
• Evaluate existing programs to determine effectiveness and recommend programmatic changes, staffing adjustments, supports, and curriculum enhancements as needed.
• Determine the need for new programs and services to meet student needs.
• Oversee program location changes, including the establishment of new classrooms or program moves between buildings, and supervise related staffing and logistical needs.
• Oversee and manage Extended School Year (ESY) programming.

• Analyze caseload data and determine equitable caseload assignments for special educators, Team Chairs/Evaluation Team Leaders, related service providers, and paraprofessionals.
• Work with district and building administrators to ensure appropriate staffing levels and assignments for the current and upcoming school years.
• Address staff performance concerns through coaching, supervision, and corrective action, as appropriate.
• Participate in the recruitment, hiring, placement, and assignment of special education personnel.

• Ensure district compliance with all applicable state and federal special education laws, regulations, and procedural requirements, including 603 CMR 28.00.
• Monitor, review, and maintain compliance of student records, IEPs, and service documentation.
• Disseminate updates regarding special education laws, regulations, and guidance to staff.
• Assist the Director of Special Education with matters related to the Bureau of Special Education Appeals (BSEA), Problem Resolution System (PRS), and required federal, state, and local reporting.

• Collaborate with the Director of Special Education, fellow coordinators, principals, and district leadership to support a cohesive and effective special education management team.
• Work collaboratively with families, community agencies, public and private partners, and out-of-district programs to support student services and placements.
• Review IEPs for newly enrolled students and coordinate placement, transportation, and programmatic support.
• Initiate, organize, and facilitate professional development and in-service training for special education staff.
• Attend professional conferences, workshops, and required meetings, including after‑school and evening meetings.

• Assist in the preparation and submission of required reports and documentation.
• Manage annual ordering of inventory, including supplies, equipment, and instructional technology.
• Assist in summer operations, including coverage of the Special Education Office, interviewing staff, and coordinating summer testing or IEP meetings as needed.
• Maintain required certifications, including district‑approved restraint training.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Director of Special Education.
• Serve in a full‑year (12‑month) administrative role with availability for after‑school, evening, and summer work as required.
• Maintain regular interaction with students, families, staff, administrators, and external agencies.
• Travel among district buildings and external sites as necessary.