Program Specialist - Special Education

Primary Function

Responsible for providing assistance to personnel in developing support and monitoring instructional programs for special education students.

Directly Responsible To

SELPA Director

Major Responsibilities

• Aid in implementing IEP team decisions by conferring with parents, teachers, and administrators.
• Aid in coordinating and monitoring special education placements.
• Aid special educators in the development, implementation, and evaluation of the school site programs.
• Review the development of student instructional plans, ensuring legal compliance.
• Assist local Student Study Teams on a consultant basis to review student referrals for least restrictive placement.
• Aid the Administrator of Special Education in program and curriculum development.
• Aid in evaluating program effectiveness.
• Assist in placing children in non-public school programs and monitor the school programs of such children.
• Attend Board of Education meetings as requested.
• Perform other related duties assigned by the SELPA Director.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of principles of organization and management.
• Knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations governing special education students.
• Knowledge of basic elements involved in the teaching of special education students.
• Ability to speak and write effectively.
• Ability to work effectively with all segments of the school community and general public.

Education, Training and Experience

• Special Education Teaching Credential and Regular Education Teaching Credential.
• Master’s degree or Bachelor’s degree plus 45 units or equivalent in professional preparation or experience.
• Successful teaching experience in special education program(s).
• Experience with developing and implementing programs for severely handicapped students ages 5-21.
• Regular and Special Education classroom teaching experience is desirable.