Program Specialist - Special Education

BASIC FUNCTION:

Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Special Education, the Program Specialist

effectively supports the development of individual educational programs and placement of

students with special education needs. Assists and facilitates access to programs and services.

Promotes quality and compliance of programs and services in a cost effective manner.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES:

♦ Observe, consult with and assist the Resource Specialists, Designated Instructional

Service Providers, and Special Day Class Teachers

♦ Plan programs, coordinate curricular resources and evaluate effectiveness of programs

for students with special needs

♦ Represent the District and participate in critical IEP decision making prior to, during,

and following IEP meetings that have fiscal implications for the District

♦ Assist with staff development programs and innovation of special methods and

approaches

♦ Coordinate, provide consultation and assist with program development for any of the

state/federal identified handicapping conditions

♦ Interact with teachers, classified staff, administrators, and parents in resolving complex

student issues

♦ Consult with Principals and other Site Administrators who provide special education

services at their schools

♦ Monitor, consult and assist with the referrals, assessments and identification of students

with special needs

♦ Coordinate/collaborate with other agencies to uphold inter-agency agreements from the

Master Plan. Work with the agencies to encourage them to do their fair share

♦ Monitor progress, evaluate placements and communicate with public and non-public

schools, licensed children’s institutions and foster home staff

♦ Facilitate and recommend assignment of students with special needs to appropriate

special education programs, including administrative placements

♦ Consult and serve as liaison with professionals, the community, parents, and agencies

regarding special education laws, procedures, policies, programs, placement, and

community resources

♦ Assist the Assistant Director in monitoring local plan implementation, legal compliance

and data collection

♦ Provide in-service training for SELPA, LEA staff, parents, and community groups

♦ Serve on or attend SELPA committees, job related meetings and activities, as specified

by the Assistant Director

♦ Provides individual student assessments and reports for current level of functioning as

requested by the Assistant Director

♦ Performs other activities as required or assigned by the Assistant Director

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

♦ State and Federal laws and regulations governing Special Education

♦ Working with multiple age levels (0-22 years of age)

♦ Range of disabling conditions

Ability to:

♦ Work independently and effectively with others, having strong & positive interpersonal

skills, and effectively follow general directives

♦ Organize Staff Development Presentations

♦ Develop cost effective programs

♦ Develop, advise and assist with career, vocational education and transitional programs

QUALIFICATIONS

♦ Special Education and/or Pupil Personnel Services Credential

♦ Valid California Drivers License

♦ A minimum of three years experience in a Special Education or Pupil Services position

♦ Masters Degree preferred

♦ Advanced training and related experience in the education of individuals with exceptional

needs

♦ Demonstrated leadership, problem-solving ability, and communication skills to work

with students, staff, parents, and the community

♦ Strong organizational ability and leadership

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

♦ Work year: 200 days + 14 paid Holidays

♦ Salary schedule placement level 22 on the Supervisory Salary Schedule

CM/C Salary Schedule

♦ Benefits: Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits are provided by the District in accordance

with the current agreement between the Supervisory Group and the Livermore Valley

Joint Unified School District