Special Education Diagnostician
Multiple Locations
To provide special education program support to teachers who work with students with disabilities. They will work cross categorically to assist teachers with problem solving to provide appropriate interventions to students. They will apply knowledge, skills and understanding regarding curriculum, assessment and instruction and differentiation. They will also assist by providing embedded professional development, appropriate professional materials, and recommendations about the use of teaching techniques, equipment, supplementary materials and supplies needed for appropriate interventions in accordance with students’ IEPs. Program Support Teachers/Diagnosticians will also participate as a member of an IEP team to evaluate students under special education law to determine initial eligibility for special education and related services and the educational needs of the student. Administer assessment instruments and observe students to assist in diagnosing disabilities across multiple areas and assist in the development of the IEP if special education needs are identified. A Valid Driver's License required. Master’s Degree in education field, Special Education or Educational Leadership degree preferred. Post Bachelor’s continuing education (course credit, workshop, or seminar) in a full range of interventions, assessment and evaluation strategies in the disability areas, such as cognitive assessment, achievement tests, behavior rating scales and adaptive scales. Successful teaching experience or instructional leadership, for at least 3 years within the last 5 years, preferably in an urban educational setting. Experience leading professional development of special education focusing on best practices. Experience working with children with trauma and mental health concerns, significant behavioral difficulties, sensory needs (including Autism). Must have excellent and professional written and oral communication and interpersonal skills. Demonstrates effective leadership skills. Encourages, models, and maintains high standards of professional conduct and appearance. Must have an excellent attendance record. Selects appropriate channels for resolving concerns/problems. Demonstrates fairness and consistency in working with colleagues, district staff, parents, and community acknowledging their rights to hold differing views or values. Promotes the belief that all students can and will learn. Ability to multitask, effectively prioritize and work independently on position related needs and tasks. Must be flexible and adaptable to meet changing requirements, processes and procedures. Adheres to district policies and state special education timelines including maintaining confidentiality under the law. Must be proficient in the use of various software including, but not limited to, Word, Excel and Google Apps. Demonstrates ability to effectively facilitate (and develop when necessary) professional learning for others. Provide support and assistance in the areas of curriculum, assessment and instruction to teachers of students with disabilities. Assist in the development, planning and implementation of strategies, procedures, and service delivery options for children with disabilities at the initial and annual IEP meetings. Assist in the development of visual schedules and supports, sensory diets, and other supports for students with autism. Assist special and regular education staff in the development and implementation of positive behavioral supports, Behavior Intervention Plans and Functional Behavior Assessments for students as appropriate. Provide embedded professional development through workshop opportunities, as well as demonstration teaching, meeting with individual teachers or small groups of teachers to talk about appropriate interventions, materials, and equipment. Administer assessment instruments across suspected disability areas, including collection of data from parents. Interpret data from interventions and utilize data to assist in the evaluation process. Assist special and regular education teachers in the development and implementation of supplementary aids and supports for students with disabilities. Mentor new or permit special education teachers. Assist in the monitoring of special education compliance, including but not limited to reviewing IEPs for compliance, IEP implementation, and discipline data. Assist the building administration in the scheduling of students with disabilities, including special education teacher schedules. Collaborate with Supervisor to plan and lead monthly special education department meetings and present during school wide meetings when applicable. Provide support to intervention teams around behavior and academic needs of the student and school for students with disabilities (such as School Support Teams, RtI, PBIS, etc). Other duties as assigned by the Deputy Chief of Special Education or designee.
