Diagnostician

Diagnostician

Primary Purpose:

Implement the special education appraisal process. Assess the educational, learning styles, and program

needs of students referred to special education services. Provide diagnostic information and work

cooperatively with instructional personnel to provide the most appropriate programs for students with

disabilities.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Master's degree in educational assessment

Valid Texas teaching certificate

Valid Texas educational diagnostician certificate

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of diagnostic procedures, education of special education students, human development, and

learning theories

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

Three years teaching experience

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Assessment

1. Receive student referrals and implement the appraisal process.

2. Select and administer formal and informal assessments to determine student eligibility for special

education services according to federal and Texas Education Agency regulations.

3. Collect and organize relevant assessment data from student's cumulative folder, classroom

teachers(s), principal, support staff, parents, and outside resource people.

4. Conduct classroom observation and personal interviews.

5. Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with

interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and development of Individual

Education Plans (IEP) for students according to district procedures.

Consultation

1. Provide staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel in identification
   
   and understanding of students with disabilities.

2. Assist classroom teachers with implementation of IEP.

3. Consult parents concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment
   
   data.
4. Consult parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant individuals to enhance their work
   
   with students.

Program Management

1. Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.
2. Assist in the selection of assessment materials and equipment.
3. Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the assessment program and make changes
   
   based on findings.
4. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents
   
   required.
5. Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and
   
   local board policy in the areas of assessment, placement, and planning for special education
   
   services.
6. Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
7. Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignment.
   
   Communication
8. Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors.
9. Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None.

Working Conditions:

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Maintain emotional control under stress. Regular districtwide travel to multiple work locations as assigned;

moderate lifting and carrying. May be required to lift and transfer students to and from wheelchair or

assist with positioning students with physical disabilities.