Student Services Coordinator with Special Education emphasis

NORWALK COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Job Title: Student Services Coordinator with an emphasis in Special Education

Reports to: Director of Student Services 

Position Purpose: To provide coordination and expertise in the development and implementation of programs for students who need additional support outside of core instruction. This role works closely with the Director of Student Services and the Associate Superintendent of Teaching and Learning to coordinate the Tier 2 and 3 responses at each building within the district’s MTSS. 

Essential Performance Responsibilities:

• Serve as the leading advocate for students needing additional support to ensure services are provided effectively and equitably.

• Support the Director of Student Services with implementation of continual improvement goals and action plans.

• Interpret assessment data to inform instructional decisions and adjust learning plans for individual student needs

• Assist building leadership in implementing Student Support Teams (SST) processes in alignment with district expectations including:

  • Implementing research-based interventions.

  • Systems for monitoring progress.

  • Intensification of support.

  • Problem solving for unique student needs.

• Coordinate with the teaching and learning department to provide staff training in Tier 2 and 3 instructional practices, especially for teacher leaders

• Maintain current knowledge of research, trends, and best practices in student services and share relevant information with staff.

• Support the Director of Student Services as a resource for stakeholders regarding programs.

• Support the Director of Student Services and other staff in updating handbooks and filing reports required by the DE and other state or federal agencies related to special education, at-risk, counseling, homeless, and other educational services.

• Attend board meetings and provide reports as requested by the Superintendent.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the board or Superintendent.

Special Education Emphasis

• Partner with buildings and families to improve engagement, attendance, and wraparound supports; conduct or support home visits as part of SST plans. 

• Coordinate school-based therapy services across the district.

• Connect families to community resources

  • Create and maintain parent resources materials and lists of health, mental health and social services resources/services.

• Assist building and assistant principals in addressing issues of bullying and harassment, including supporting investigations.

• Work with special education teachers to implement Specially Designed Instruction:

  • Coach teachers to translate IEP goals into SDI plans: instructional routines, frequency/intensify, grouping, and progress monitoring cadence.

  • Provide/prioritize evidence-based strategies and scaffolded lesson frameworks matched to specific skill deficits.

  • Create and maintain fidelity checklists and brief look-for tools; conduct non-evaluative implementation checks and follow-up supports.

• Identify gaps in curriculum and resources for special education. 

• Attend IEP meetings as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Understanding of Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Specially Designed Instruction (SDI).

• Understand the components of and IEP 

• Basic knowledge of statistics (mean, median, percentages, trends) to interpret data accurately.

• Proficiency in computer network systems and software applications as needed.

• Strong organizational and coordination skills.

• Proactively identifies and takes ownership of tasks and projects.

• Effective communication with students, parents, and colleagues.

• Self-evaluation capabilities for professional growth.

• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.

Qualifications Profile:

• Required Iowa Teaching License or Iowa Professional Service License or ability to attain one before start date

• Required: Masters Degree in education or related field

• Preferred experience in special education, student services, counseling, or program coordination.

• Strong skills in interpersonal communication, leadership, and data-driven decision-making.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to meet pre-employment physical requirements.

• Work in environments with noise, children, and staff.

• Physical ability to climb stairs and lift up to 50 lbs.

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for inter-school travel.

Working Conditions: Varied

Terms of Employment: Salary and work year established by board policies.

Evaluation: Performance will be evaluated in accordance with board policies.

The Norwalk Community School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

FLSA Status: Exempt