Lead Educational Program Coordinator

Location: Based in Little Rock Travel: Moderate travel required Travel Expenses: Reimbursed within specified guidelines The Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) – Office of Special Education (OSE) is seeking a highly qualified Lead Educational Program Coordinator to lead implementation of the Arkansas State Personnel Development Grant (SPDG), funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). This leadership role is responsible for overall direction and management of the State Personnel Development Grant. The lead coordinator provides statewide leadership for professional development and systems improvement initiatives that strengthen professional learning systems, build leadership capacity, and enhance family engagement to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. The Lead Educational Program Coordinator serves as the primary leader for statewide grant implementation. This includes the development, supervision, mentoring, and ongoing support of internal SPDG personnel, including the Educational Support Coordinator and the Educational Support and Family Engagement Specialists. The lead coordinator also works closely with OSE to align agency efforts, ensure coherence in technical assistance, and advance the priorities outlined in the State Improvement Plan. This work directly contributes to OSE’s vision for meaningful access and participation for all learners within an accessible education system. Key Responsibilities: ● Lead the coordination and implementation of the Meaningful Access and Participation Project, including statewide training, coaching, implementation supports, and data-informed improvement cycles, in alignment with the State Improvement Plan. ● Provide overall leadership and oversight for the grant, ensuring all activities are implemented with fidelity and align with federal and state regulations, grant priorities, and OSE guidance. ● Coordinate the design and delivery of high-quality professional development, technical assistance, and coaching across districts and schools. ● Lead and support professional learning communities and implementation teams focused on systems improvement and evidence-based practices. ● Supervise, mentor, and develop SPDG personnel to ensure alignment, consistency, and accountability in project operations, reporting, and fiscal management. ● Collaborate with OSE, Arkansas Collaborative Consultants, and other partner organizations to support coherent statewide systems of support. ● Serve as the SPDG liaison with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education (OSEP), external evaluators, and other stakeholders, providing timely updates, implementation data, and progress reports.