Program Support Specialist

Job Title:             Program Specialist-Student Services Department

FLSA Status:       EXEMPT

Minimum Qualifications:

Master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university in Special Education, Educational Administration or related field;

Level 3 PreK-12 Special Education License

NMPED Level 3B Prek-12 Administrative License or ability to apply and receive

(within three months from initial hire date)

10 years minimum public-school experience in special education, with at least 2 years in a leadership or administrative role.   

Skills/Aptitudes:

Strong knowledge of special education laws, regulations, and best practices.  Good organizational ability; good written and oral communication skills; ability to maintain high level of professionalism and confidentiality regarding students, staff, parents, and school matters.

Position Summary:

The Program Support Specialist for Special Education is a dedicated professional who provides leadership and support for the development, implementation, and assessment of special education programs for students in grades Pre-K through 12. The ideal candidate holds an administrator's license and has extensive experience in special education. This role is pivotal in ensuring that students with disabilities receive a high-quality education that meets their individual needs and prepares them for success.

Essential Job Responsibilities of a Program Specialist:

• Works cooperatively with colleagues, supervisors, and administrators.
• Demonstrates ethical behavior.
• Follows district policies and administrative rules and regulations.
• Follows District Code of Conduct policies.
• Maintains behavior appropriate to performing and accomplishing assigned duties.
• Maintains a suitable personal appearance as it relates to position.
• Promote an environment/climate conducive to productive performance.
• Ensure that special education programs comply with federal, state, and local regulations and standards.
• Develop and maintain Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in accordance with legal requirements.
• Communicates accurately and effectively.
• Complies with all School Board policies and administrative regulations.
• Program Development and Implementation:
  • Collaborate with school administrators, teachers, and support staff to design and implement effective special education programs.
  • Ensure that special education programs comply with federal, state, and local regulations and standards.
  • Develop and maintain Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in accordance with legal requirements.
• Training and Professional Development:
  • Provide training and professional development opportunities for special education staff.
  • Mentor and support special education teachers and paraprofessionals in instructional strategies, classroom management, and best practices.
• Student Assessment and Progress Monitoring:
  • Oversee the assessment of students’ needs and the development of appropriate educational plans.
  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of special education programs and services.
  • Analyze student performance data to inform instructional practices and program improvements.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Serve as a liaison between special education staff, general education teachers, parents, and external agencies.
  • Facilitate effective communication and collaboration to ensure coordinated support for students.
  • Conduct meetings with parents, teachers, and other stakeholders to discuss student progress and program effectiveness.
• Compliance and Reporting:
  • Ensure compliance with all IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) requirements.
  • Prepare and submit necessary reports to state and federal agencies.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student progress and program activities.
• Resource Management:
  • Assist in the development and management of the special education budget.
  • Identify and allocate resources, including technology, materials, and personnel, to support special education programs.
  • Seek out and apply for grants and additional funding opportunities to enhance special education services.
• Performs other job duties as assigned.

Supervisor and Reviewers:

Student Services Director