SPED Instructional Specialist

Overview

The instructional specialist's role is to provide support for the implementation of the special education program under the supervision of the director of special education and the special education coordinator. The instructional specialist will provide training and support to special education teachers for STAAR Alt 2, TELPAS Alt, other required district or state assessments, COSF, eSPed, Goalbook for new and existing staff.

The IS will provide direct technical support to staff who require further assistance after training. The IS will also provide training to new and existing staff in the appropriate case managing strategies for students in special education and will provide direct support to staff who need further assistance in this task. The secondary IS supports transition discussions at the junior high level.

Further, the IS will provide direct classroom modeling for teachers in need of support for instructional strategies, behavioral strategies, and best practice. IS can/will attend ARDs as needed at the direction of the director or coordinator to provide support/modeling.

• Bachelor s degree from an accredited university
• Valid Texas Teaching Certificate with special education endorsements (preferred)
• ESL Certification

• Knowledge of special needs students
• Knowledge of the continuum of services for students with disabilities
• Knowledge of behavioral needs of students with disabilities
• Ability to communicate effectively with students, staff, and parents
• Ability to write effective IEPs for students with special needs

• Minimum of five years  experience working with students with special needs

• Provide BOY trainings for eSPed, Goalbook, case management, collaborative and alternate instruction, and other topics as assigned by director or assistant director
• Provide technical support to special education staff for these programs as needed throughout the year
• Provide support to special education staff regarding effective case management procedures and guidance for creating effective IEPs for students receiving services
• Provide support for transition discussions at the junior high level
• Provide STAAR Alt 2/TELPAS Alt training and support special education staff as needed
• Coach/model for special education teachers as needed to support effective instruction and/or behavioral assistance
• Conduct PLCs with special education staff as assigned by the director or coordinator
• Attend ARDs when needed as requested by administrators, director, or coordinator
• Other duties as assigned by the director or assistant director

• Establish and maintain open communication with special education staff, administrators, and other personnel across the district
• Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents, and community members
• Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly

• Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills
• Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, district, and school regulations and policies for special education teachers
• Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required
• Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required
• Maintain confidentiality
• Be punctual in all areas
• All other duties as assigned by the supervisor

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