Diagnostician, Denton Regional Day School Program for the Deaf (RDSPD)

*This assignment is split between three campuses: Denton HS, Calhoun MS, N Rayzor ES

Primary Purpose:

Serve as a primary member of the multi-disciplinary evaluation and planning team responsible for determining student eligibility for special education services. Coordinate and facilitate comprehensive evaluations, including the assessment of cognitive and educational functioning and the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations. Provide consultation and guidance to teachers, parents/guardians, and support personnel on eligibility, IEP development and implementation, and evidence-based instructional strategies. Ensure district compliance with all legal and procedural requirements related to special education evaluation, placement, and service planning.

Qualifications:

Education and Certification

• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Valid Texas certification as an Educational Diagnostician issued by the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC), or
• Texas License as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP), including LSSP Trainee status, as applicable.

Experience

• Three (3) years of successful teaching experience (preferred)

Knowledge and Skills

• ASL Proficient
• Basic knowledge of federal laws, state guidelines and local district policies related to special education evaluation and services.
• Comprehensive knowledge of diagnostic assessment procedures, instructional strategies and behavioral modifications and accommodations
• Exceptional organizational, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills to support evaluation processes, documentation, collaboration, and compliance
• Advanced ability to interpret and analyze assessment data to inform educational decision-making and eligibility determinations.
• Bilingual proficiency in reading, writing, or speaking a second language (beneficial but not required).

Key Responsibilities

Evaluation, Assessment & Eligibility Determination

• Implement, complete, and adhere to required evaluation and eligibility procedures and timelines.
• Select and administer formal and informal evaluations to determine student eligibility for special education services in accordance with federal and Texas Education Agency regulations.
• Score and interpret assessment and evaluation data accurately and effectively convey results through written and oral communication (e.g., comprehensive report, IEP Committee participation, parent conferences).
• Update, maintain, and appropriately use assessment and evaluation tools to ensure accurate and compliant evaluation practices.
• Comply with local, state, and federal requirements and regulations related to evaluation, placement, and planning for special education services.

Data Collection & Records Management

• Collect and organize relevant evaluation data from students’ cumulative folder, classroom teacher(s), principal, support staff, parents/guardians and outside service providers.
• Maintain accurate and timely records and reports in accordance with district and legal requirements.
• Maintain accurate and compliant eligibility folders and related documentation.
• Maintain confidentiality in the review and communication of student information in accordance with applicable laws and district policy.

IEP Process & Legal Compliance

• Prepare for and coordinate IEP meetings within required timelines, ensure appropriate participants are included, address required components during IEP meetings, and demonstrate an understanding of legal procedures related to the IEP process.
• Provide school personnel with relevant updates and guidance regarding federal and state law, Commissioner’s Rules, policies, procedures, and local operational guidelines related to assessment, evaluation, placement, and planning for special education services.

Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate with all members of the multi-disciplinary team and make appropriate recommendations concerning instructional strategies and materials related to the IEP.
• Consult with the multi-disciplinary team, parents/guardians, and other relevant individuals as appropriate to support IEP development and implementation.
• Maintain positive, collaborative working relationships with the multi-disciplinary team, parents/guardians, students, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Communicate effectively with the multi-disciplinary team, parents/guardians, and students through clear and professional oral and written communication.
• Share knowledge, skills, and expertise to assist colleagues and support district and campus initiatives.

Professional Learning, Leadership & District Engagement

• Serve as an active contributor on campus and district projects and teams.
• Maintain current knowledge of research, best practices, and technology related to individual evaluation and student eligibility for special education services.
• Provide campus and district professional development to address needs related to special education supports and strategies.

• Adhere to professional and ethical standards in accordance with Professional Code of Ethics and applicable state and federal regulations.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Adhere to all district policies, procedures, and expectations as outlined in the employee handbook and administrative regulations.
• Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Participate in professional development, faculty/department meetings, and special events as assigned.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the mission and goals of the department, campus, and district.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools and Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals, and other instructional equipment

Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking

Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds); may require regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities, control behavior through physical restraint, assist nonambulatory students, and  lift and move adaptive equipment

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards; may require districtwide travel; may work prolonged or irregular hours

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

Appointment:

The Superintendent of Schools will approve the appointment of this position based on the applicant’s training, experience, and expertise.