Special Education Specialist

Primary

Purpose:

Facilitate and manage district Special Education programs to meet the needs of students. Serve as the leader in the development and improvement of programs provided a variety of settings. Collaborate with district staff and outside personnel to formulate, develop, implement, and evaluate research-based interventions in Special Education.

Education / Certification:

* Valid Special Education Teaching Certificate required.

* Master's degree from an accredited college or university preferred.

Special Knowledge /

Skills:

* Knowledge of curriculum and instruction.

* Knowledge of special education programs, regulations, and specific areas of disability.

* Knowledge/familiarization of Assistive Technology devices, services, regulations and procedures relating to IDEA/Federal/State mandates.

* Ability to interpret individual assessment data (FIE) with regards to program planning and implementation.

* Ability to evaluate program effectiveness, and program compliance.

* Ability to interpret policy, procedures, and data.

* Strong organizational, communication, public relations, and interpersonal skills.

* Ability to establish and maintain relationships with CISD, other districts, state and federal agency personnel who are involved with the research, administration, and coordination of Special Education programs.

Experience / Other Requirements:

* Minimum of three years teaching in a Special Education classroom.

Major

Responsibilities and Duties:

Program Management

* Provides continuous and systematic procedures for professional growth for classroom teachers through workshops and demonstrations pertinent to methods and materials that will ensure success for students.

* Consults frequently with classroom teachers on matters relating to instruction.

* Recommends adoption and use of varied instructional materials.

* Assists building principals and other administrators and/or supervisors in implementing the Special Education program.

* Assists in the development and evaluation of ongoing programs and makes recommendations for changes.

* Assists teachers in developing systems of support for Students with Disabilities.

* Works with campus support staff and administrators to facilitate the coordination of programs for students with disabilities.

* Attends appropriate professional meetings and workshops to maintain proficiency and acquire new ideas for improvement. Informs administration of the effects of current and impending legislation.

Policy, Reports, and Law

* Comply with policies established by federal and state law, Commissioner's Rules, and local board policy.

* Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignment.

* Responsible for properly maintaining district records, adhering to all policies set forth by the district for records maintenance, and learning the records retention schedule for department records.

* Orients beginning teachers and paraprofessionals as to the philosophy, procedures, and materials for the special education/student program.

* Compiles, maintains, and files all reports, records, and other documents required.

* Assists administration in the resolution of parent concerns and complaints with regards to Special Education programming.

* Demonstrates awareness of district-community needs and initiates activities to meet needs.

* Performs additional tasks and duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None.