Primary Purpose:
Implement the special education appraisal process. Assess the educational, learning styles, and program needs of students referred to special education services. Provide diagnostic information and work cooperatively with instructional personnel to provide the most appropriate programs for students with disabilities. Manage the ARD committee process. Work to develop and implement Individualized Education Programs that meet the needs of all students with disabilities and comply with all federal, state and local requirements.
Qualifications:
Education / Certification
Master’s degree in educational assessment
Valid Texas educational diagnostician certificate
Valid Texas teaching certification
Special Knowledge / Skills
Knowledge of diagnostic procedures, education of special education students, human development, and learning theories
Knowledge of curriculum development, research-based instruction, and Response to Intervention
Excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work with school and community population
Ability to effectively communicate with teachers, administrative staff, parents and students
Ability to communicate well in both oral and written language
Ability to work as a team
Experience
Two years teaching experience
Bilingual specialist preferred (English/Spanish)
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Assessment
1. Participate with the district’s Response-to-Intervention processes.
2. Receive student referrals for special education and implement the appraisal process.
3. Select and administer formal and informal assessments to determine if a student has a handicapping condition that could make them eligible for special education services according to federal and state regualtions.
4. Collect and organize relevant assessment data from student’s parents, cumulative folder, classroom teacher(s), other campus personnel, support staff, and any other outside resource people.
5. Conduct and/or organize classroom observations and personal interviews.
6. Participate in the Admission, Review and Dismissal (ARD) committee to assist with interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students according to district procedures.
Consultation
7. Provide staff development training to assist school personnel in identification and understanding of students with disabilities.
8. Assist classroom teachers with implementation of IEPs.
9. Consult parents concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data.
10. Consult parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant individuals to enhance their work with students.
Program Management
11. Serve as a liaison between the assessment staff and the Director of Special Education in all matters directly related to assessment, learning, curriculum development and in-service education.
12. Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.
13. Assist in the selection of assessment materials and equipment.
14. Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the assessment program and recommend changes based on findings.
15. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required.
16. Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule and local board policy in the areas of assessment, placement, and planning for special education services.
17. Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
18. Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignment.
Communication
19. Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors.
20. Effectively communicate with colleagues, students and parents.
21. Provide professional development to help district personnel, as well as parents, identify and understand handicapping conditions and how they affect students in our district.
22. Other duties as assigned.
23. Attendance is an essential job function.