What are the responsibilities and job description for the District Special Education Systems and Programs Specialist for 2026-27 SY position at Atchison Public Schools District Office?
District Special Education Systems and Programs Specialist
Job Description
Purpose: The Special Education Systems and Programs Specialist supports the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of special education services across the district. This role collaborates with the district special education leadership team to ensure legal compliance, high-quality service delivery, and alignment with district goals. The specialist also provides professional development, supports staff and administrators, and serves as a liaison between families and the district.
Reports to: Assistant Superintendent
Department: Special Education
FLSA Status: Exempt, Salaried
Grade Levels Supported: PreK–12
Salary: Teacher Salary Schedule
Required Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field
- Ability to develop a strong knowledge of special education law, compliance, and service delivery models
- State of Kansas certification/licensure
- Hold a high level of integrity and confidentiality
- Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may find appropriate or acceptable
- Valid state driver’s license
- Health and Inoculation Certificate on file in the District Office (after an employment offer is made)
Skills & Competencies
- Strong knowledge of IDEA and special education compliance requirements
- Effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Data analysis and problem solving skills
- Leadership in supporting adult learning
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Creativity and flexibility in problem solving and program implementation
Working Conditions
- District-wide travel required
- Attendance at applicable workshops or conference related to legal compliance and special education programming
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Collaboration
- Collaborate with the district special education leadership team to support strategic planning and program implementation
- Coordinate district-wide special education initiatives
- Facilitate communication and alignment across schools and departments
- Partner with general education teachers, administrators, and related service providers to support student success
- Communicate effectively with all stakeholders to ensure understanding and adherence to special education processes
- Participate in district and school-level meetings to represent the interests of students with disabilities
Compliance & Program Oversight
- Support district efforts to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local special education laws and regulations (e.g., IDEA)
- Monitor implementation of IEPs and service delivery models to ensure fidelity and effectiveness
- Assist with audits, reporting, and corrective action plans as needed
Instructional Support & Professional Development
- Design and deliver professional development for teachers, administrators, and support staff on special education best practices
- Provide coaching and technical assistance to school teams on inclusive practices, interventions, and compliance procedures
- Support implementation of evidence-based instructional strategies across PreK–12 settings
Family & Community Engagement
- Serve as a liaison between families and the district to support understanding of special education services and processes
- Facilitate communication and conflict resolution when needed
- Promote family engagement and partnerships that support student success
- Provide resources and support to families of students with disabilities
- Address questions and concerns from parents and guardians regarding special education services
Systems & Program Development
- Support the development, evaluation, and continuous improvement of special education programs and systems
- Analyze data to inform decision-making and program effectiveness
- Identify areas for improvement and develop action plans to address them
Support for Special Education Staff:
- Provide guidance and support to special education teachers and staff
- Assist in the development and implementation of instructional strategies and accommodations
- Deliver professional development on special education processes and best practices
Salary : $46,500 - $67,400