POSITION TITLE:    Special Education Liason (11 month position)

FLSA:                       Exempt Professional

REPORTS TO:          Director of Special Education and Student Services

Special Education Liaison supports and advocates for students with disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate services and accommodations, and acts as a bridge between families, educators, and special education professionals. This role is vital in supporting parents through the special education process and enhancing programming for students with autism and other significant disabilities. Additionally, the candidate will act as an instructional coach for special education teachers, equipping them with the strategies and tools needed to support diverse learners effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Parent Liaison 

• Serve as a resource for parents and families to navigate the referral, evaluation,   reevaluation, and eligibility process for students suspected of having disabilities.
• Guide families through the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process, ensuring they understand their rights, responsibilities, and available support services.
• Collaborate with special education family support centers to enhance parental engagement and advocacy.
• Facilitate workshops, meetings, and training sessions to educate parents on special education laws, services, and best practices.

2. Mental Health Support & Student Advocacy

• Act as a liaison between the school, home, and community to connect families to external resources, community programs, and mental health services. 
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and support staff to address students’ social-emotional challenges that may impact academic performance and overall well-being.

3. Special Education Program Support

• Assist in developing and implementing specialized programming for students with autism and other significant disabilities in general and special education settings.
• Collaborate with administration, school counselors, and special education case managers to create the master schedule and to ensure that student with disabilites gain equal access to course offerings and supports as appropriate. 
• Collaborate with teachers and specialists to develop, model, and implement the use of evidence-based interventions, assistive technologies, and individualized support strategies to enhance student learning, independence, and engagement.

4. Special Education Instructional Coaching

• Serve as a special education instructional coach, providing mentorship and professional development for teachers working with students with disabilities.
• Observe classroom instruction and offer feedback on strategies, accommodations, and modifications to improve student outcomes.
• Support and model the implementation of best practices in differentiated instruction, behavior management, and inclusive education.
• Assist in developing training sessions and resources to build teacher capacity in special education methodologies.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Education:  Master’s degree in Special Education or a related field 
• Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience working in special education, student support services, or a related area.
• Knowledge of Special Education Laws & Processes (IDEA, IEPs, 504 Plans, etc.).
• Strong crisis intervention and advocacy skills to support students and families effectively.
• Experience with autism programming, instructional coaching, and teacher mentorship.
• Ability to collaborate with parents, educators, administrators, and community organizations.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.