Program Specialist Special Education

DEFINITION

Under the direction of the Administrative Director of Education Services, the Special Education Program Specialist will coordinate and assess curriculum resources to assure program effectiveness for moderate to severe Special Education students; to assist Educational Services personnel in program development and innovation of instructional methods and approaches. The Program Specialist will assist teams in determining appropriate placement to assure that students have appropriate educational opportunities.

RESPONSIBILITIES 

•        Plan new programs and classes, coordinate curricular resources, and evaluate effectiveness of programs for individuals with moderate to severe exceptional needs.

•        Participate in the design and implementation of staff development (for general and special education teachers, support staff, and site administrators), program development, and innovation of research-based methodologies and approaches.

•        Participate in the monitoring of district procedures related to the identification, assessment, placement and instructional planning for individuals with exceptional needs in compliance with state and federal regulations.

•        Participate in professional activities and conferences and review current research to identify promising programs and practices in special education.

•        Attend and fully participate in IEPs for our moderate to severe special needs’ students.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

•        Collaborate with Directors, Principals, Coordinators, general and special education teachers and staff, and parents.

•        Plan programs, coordinate curricular resources, and evaluate effectiveness of programs for students with exceptional needs.

•        Participate in staff development, program development, and innovation of special methods and approaches.

QUALIFICATION

Knowledge of:

•        Appropriate curriculum for moderate to severe Special Education students.

•        Behavioral strategies and techniques including data collection.

•        Special education and general education strategies that enable teachers to work effectively with students and families.

•        Common Core Curriculum, instruction, and research-based strategies, and techniques.

•        Low incidence disabilities.

 Ability to:

•        Effectively analyze problems, issues, and concerns, and formulate appropriate alternative solutions.

•        Communicate effectively in oral and written form.

•        Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with parents, administrators, teachers, and staff.

•        Meet schedules and timelines.

 EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

The candidate must have at least five years of experience in public education as a Special Education teacher or related services specialist.

A valid California Administrative Credential is required.