JOB SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Director of Special Education and Health Services, the Program Specialist assists in developing and implementing the special education programs; assists in ensuring that students are provided with a full range of educational options; and participates in development and delivery of staff development activities.


MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Assists the Director in program development, implementation, and evaluation.

Assists in maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations related to special education.

Acts as a liaison between special education programs, school sites, and community agencies. Facilitates positive communication among all special education staff members.

Provides consultation to special and general education staff regarding topics such as IEP development, curriculum and instruction for students with special education needs, and appropriate program options.

Facilitates the development and coordination of appropriate staff development activities.

Serves as a representative of the District at various meetings and assigned committees. Attends IEP meetings as needed in the role of administrative designee or team member.

Assists in keeping the community informed about the District's plans, projects, and developments related to the special education program.

Consults with the Director on a regular basis regarding topics such as caseloads, IEPs, student needs, parent requests, and staff development needs.

Maintains current knowledge of regulations, procedures, and best practices related to special education.

Performs all other duties as assigned.


EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:

Training and Experience: Valid Education Specialist Credential, Clinical Services Credential, or Pupil Personnel Services Credential with School Psychologist Authorization; at least five years of experience in Special Education; specialized in-depth knowledge in one or more of the major disability areas.

Knowledge: Must possess a high level of knowledge in child development (normal and abnormal), assessment tools, cultural differences, alternative instructional and assessment strategies, current educational practices, laws and regulations as they relate to special education.

Abilities: Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations; ability to organize and prioritize work, adjust to changing circumstances, to act decisively and accept responsibility for decisions. Must possess skills in conflict resolution, observation, consultation, and meeting/time/organizational management. Must be able to work well with people and possess good communication skills.

Physical Effort/Working Environment: This is an indoor environment and requires light physical effort; frequent standing and sitting; occasional walking, periodic handling of lightweight parcels and supplies. A pre-placement physical examination may be required.