The Special Education Coordinator provides leadership in developing and supporting the division’s special education program and services.

• Provides special education assistance regarding programming/regulations to teachers/principals in buildings assigned;
• Reviews IEPs for legal compliance and oversees the implementation of those IEPs for all students in buildings assigned;
• Monitors teacher caseloads;
• Provides assistance to multidisciplinary teams which determine special education eligibility;
• Provides input at multidisciplinary, school based team meetings which problem-solve issues related to individual student programs;
• Assists in coordinating activities related to the participation of children with disabilities in the various assessment programs;
• Works with school staff to ensure that students with disabilities receive instruction in the Standards of Learning and Albemarle County Curriculum, if appropriate;
• Assists with manifestation determination meetings;
• Assists in determining the types of programs needed by the schools and makes appropriate recommendations;
• Facilitates student placements by ensuring appropriate records are in place, assigning students to particular classes, arranging transportation, coordinating communication between all appropriate personnel, etc.;
• Assists in providing leadership to parents/citizen advisory groups or interagency groups as directed by the Director of Special Education/Student Services;
• Keeps informed on the latest research, trends, and developments in special education and disseminates this information to teachers/principals;
• Participates in division staff development by providing training to other teachers;
• Develops/provides specialized knowledge about adaptive equipment; restraint techniques, or other topics as assigned by the Director or Special Education/Student Services;
• Upon request of principals, arranges demonstration lessons for teachers;
• Provides liaison to programs associated with school division
• Serves on interagency teams that provide services to children;
• Assist with hiring, as requested;
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Education/student Services.

Candidates should posses a master’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university and be eligible for endorsement as a special education teacher, school psychologist or school social worker; also requires a minimum of five years experience working with children with disabilities in a public school setting.

Work is typically performed in an office setting primarily sitting at office equipment and files, with occasional light lifting and other limited physical activities. Occasional operation of automated computer office equipment is required. Frequent travel to school sites throughout the county and occasional state-wide or regional travel is required. Attendance at meetings outside the normal duty hours is frequently required. Regular involvement with principals and teachers throughout the School Division; usually there is need to motivate, establish rapport, gain support, persuade or influence individuals or groups. Contacts often require tact and discretion. Contacts with State and Federal agencies are required frequently. Contacts with the School Board, Advisory Councils, faculties and students, parents and the general public may be required.

Performance will be evaluated on the ability and effectiveness in carrying out the above responsibilities.