Special Education Coordinator; Coordinator, Special Ed

Position: Special Education Coordinator (Coordinator, Special Ed)
Job Title:

Special Education Coordinator

Location:

District Admin Building Department:
Special Education

Reports To:

Director of Special Education Pay Grade/Days: AP 3 / 226

Job Summary:

The Special Education Coordinator involves a multifaceted role centered around supporting students with diverse needs and ensuring compliance with legal and educational standards. The role is crucial in ensuring that students with special needs receive the support and resources they require to succeed academically and socially. By coordinating efforts and fostering an inclusive environment, Special Education Coordinators play a key role in the educational experience of these students.

Responsibilities
* Program Development and Implementation: *

Ensuring appropriate delivery of both special education instruction and related services as stipulated on IEPs.
* Support teachers and staff in developing and overseeing individualized education programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities.
* Ensure that special education services are tailored to meet each student's unique needs.
* Compliance and Documentation: *

• Ensure that the schools comply with federal and state special education laws, as well as local policies and procedures.
  * Maintain accurate records of student progress, meetings, and legal documentation.
  * Coordinate with teachers to ensure compliance with progress monitoring.
  
  * Collaboration:
  
  *
• Work closely with teachers, parents, and other professionals to coordinate services and supports.
  * Facilitate communication between all parties involved in a student's education.
  * Effectively communicate with parents and guardians about the special education process including processes for referrals, evaluations, annual IEP plans, and re-evaluations, as well as parental rights granted by IDEA.
  * Training and Support: *
• Provide professional development for teachers and staff on special education best practices and legal requirements.
  * Provide training and technical assistance to case managers, teachers, related service providers and support service professionals on all aspects of case management, use of computer systems for the special education process, goal writing, progress reports, annual reviews, and parent communication.
  * Conduct teacher and paraprofessional walkthroughs/observations, feedback, and appraisals.
  * Assessment and Evaluation: *
• Use data to adjust programs and interventions as needed.
  * Advocacy: *
• Advocate for the needs and rights of students with disabilities.
  * Ensure that students and families are informed about available resources and support.
  * Crisis Management: *
• Address any immediate issues or crises involving students with special needs.
  * Develop strategies to manage behavioral or academic challenges.
  * Professional Development:
  Remain updated on federal and state laws, as well as research on special education and related topics Skills and Qualities
  * Knowledge of Special Education Laws:
  Familiarity with IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and other relevant legislation.
  * Strong Organizational
  
  Skills:
  
  Ability to manage multiple cases, deadlines, and paperwork efficiently.
  * Excellent Communication:
  Ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.
  * Empathy and Patience:
  Understanding the challenges faced by students with disabilities and showing patience in addressing their needs.
  * Problem-Solving:
  Ability to find creative solutions to address educational and behavioral challenges.
  
  Qualifications:
  
  * Education:
  
  Bachelor's degree in Special Education, Education Administration, or a related field;
  Master's degree preferred.
  * Certification:
  Valid state certification in Special Education; administrative credentials preferred.
  
  * Experience:
  
  Minimum of 3 years of experience in special education with experience in a leadership or coordinator role preferred.
  
  * Skills:
  
  *
• Strong knowledge of federal and state special education laws and regulations.
  * Excellent organizational and leadership skills.
  * Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
  * Ability to analyze data and make informed decisions.
  * Proficiency in using educational software and technology.
  * Knowledge:
  Deep understanding of special education laws, regulations, and best practices.
  * Communication:
  Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with staff, parents, and regulatory bodies.
  * Organizational
  
  Skills:
  
  Ability to manage multiple tasks, maintain detailed records, and oversee compliance activities.
  * Analytical
  
  Skills:
  
  Proficiency in evaluating programs and practices to ensure they meet compliance standards.
  * Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  Ability to work collaboratively with educators, administrators, parents, and students.
  
  Working Conditions:
  
  * Full-time position, with occasional evening or weekend work required.
  * Work is typically performed in a school environment, with frequent in-district travel and occasional travel to other locations.
  * Other duties as assigned. The foregoing statements describe the…