The Instructional Specialist serves as resource to the SELPA program. When appropriate, the Instructional Specialist will assist to create individualized instructional materials sufficient to satisfy the needs of special project components and/or classroom activities in the SELPA Local Plan. He/she will work under the direction of the SELPA Director. The Instructional Specialist is responsible for interpreting Federal, State and District guidelines to staff and community, as well as cooperatively developing, implementing, monitoring and evaluating special project activities. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES •Assist teachers in creating a flexible program and class environment favorable to learning with emphasis on diagnosis, prescription, learning centers and record keeping, with a focus on students with severe disabilities. •Understand the development and revision of local needs assessment instruments for the SELPA Local Plan. •Attend conferences, workshops, and meetings, as necessary, per state and federal requirements. •Provide program leadership to SELPA member districts with emphasis on the SELPA Local Plan. •Provide input for dissemination of information to staff, community, member District administration and the Boards of Education. •Assist in identifying in-service needs and provide professional development to teachers. •Assist in implementing staff development activities and model lessons, as appropriate. •Attend SELPA meetings. •Assist in creating, revising, and disseminating SELPA policies and guidelines. •Develop and implement services for identified students including interventions. •Perform other duties or responsibilities as directed by the SELPA Director. SELECTION CRITERIA •Experience in origination, development and implementation of resource materials provided to staff. •Experience in development and implementation of special projects programs. ELIGIBILITY •At least three successful years of teaching. •Strong interpersonal skills.