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.
• Affords assistance to building principals and other administrators and/or supervisors in implementing the Special Education program.
• Affords assistance in the development and evaluation of ongoing programs and makes recommendations for changes.
• Affords assistance to 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.
• Policies, Reports, and Law:
• Complies with policies established by federal and state law, Commissioner’s Rules, and local board policy.
• Participates 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.
• Affords assistance 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.
• Supervisory Responsibilities:
• None.