JOB TITLE:           LSSP or Diagnostician                                    WAGE/HOUR STATUS: Exempt    

REPORTS TO:       Director of Special Education                           PAY GRADE:   2    DAYS:  197

DEPT./SCHOOL:    Instructional Services Office                           DATE REVISED:           10/20/2020

PRIMARY PURPOSE:  Implement the special education evaluation process.  Assess the educational, learning styles, and program needs of students referred for special education services.  Provide diagnostic information and work cooperatively with instructional personnel to provide the most appropriate programs for students with disabilities.  Facilitate the Admission, Review, and Dismissal committee process.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

Master’s or Education Specialist degree

Valid Texas teaching and educational diagnostician certificate

Licensed Specialist in School Psychology

Special knowledge/Skills:

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

Knowledge of rules and regulations governing special education

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

            Three years of teaching experience, if certified educational diagnostician

            Previous evaluation experience preferred

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

1. Receive student referrals and implement the special education evaluation process.
2. Select and administer formal and informal assessments to determine student eligibility for special education services according to federal and state regulations.
3. Collect and organize relevant assessment data from student’s cumulative folder, classroom teacher(s), principal, support staff, parents, and outside resource personnel.
4. Conduct classroom observations and personal interviews.
5. Facilitate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee regarding interpretation of evaluation data, development of Individual Education Plans (IEP), and appropriate placement for students according to district procedures.
6. Assist in the selection of evaluation materials and equipment.
7. Provide staff development in assigned schools to assist school personnel in the identification and understanding of students with disabilities.
8. Assist classroom teachers with the implementation of IEP’s.
9. Compose evaluation reports that meet established standards of practice and complete reports within specified timelines.
10. Consult with parents concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation or evaluation data.
11. Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors and campus personnel.
12. Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.
13. Articulate the district’s mission and goals in the area of special education services to the community and solicit its support in realizing the mission.
14. Demonstrate awareness of school-community needs and initiate activities to meet those identified needs.
15. Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents as required by federal and state rules and regulations and district policy and procedures.
16. Present a positive role model for students that supports the mission of the school district.
17. Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
18. Assess and respond to needs related to job responsibilities.
19. Assist in developing and coordinating a continuing evaluation of the assessment program.
20. Demonstrate the use of appropriate and effective techniques for community and parent involvement.
21. Maintain strict confidentiality of student information.
22. Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.
23. Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant individuals to enhance their work with students.
24. Develop needed professional skills appropriate to job assignment including but not limited to current evaluation practices, case management strategies, instructional and behavioral strategies for students.
25. Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible.
26. Complete all other duties as may be assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands:

Maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

Physical Demand/Environmental Factors:

            Prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

            Repetitive hand motions, frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching

            Regular lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds)

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required.

The Copperas Cove Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law in its programs, activities, or employment practices. For inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies, contact:  Director of Human Resources or Director of Student Services at (254) 547-1227, 703 W. Ave D, Copperas Cove, TX 76522.