Special Education Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY: This is a professional position within the Southern Ute Indian Montessori Academy (SUIMA), responsible for the coordination of special education needs for students and families in the school setting. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Provides oversight, direction, and coordination for Special Education/Special Needs Programs of the SUIMA, which includes the development, implementation, and recommendation of services. 2. Responsible for the supervision of Special Needs Aides, Reading Teachers, Occupational Therapist, Speech Therapist and others as assigned by the principal to include orientation, training, scheduling of staff and assignments, performance evaluation, and disciplinary actions. 3. Responsible for identifying the characteristics and signs of developmental delay or handicapping conditions in students. 4. Works with teachers to develop special curriculums and create the proper learning environment to fulfill special education student needs. 5. Responsible for maintaining compliance with federal, state, and tribal laws regarding special education. 6. Assists in preparation of the program budget, including monitoring costs, expenses, capital expenditures and revenue, assuring compliance within budget guidelines. 7. Responsible for addressing concerns of parents and teachers regarding Individual Learning Plans and Individual Education Plans, in a positive and timely manner. 8. Arranges transportation for Academy students who need special education services in an alternative setting. 9. Responsible for maintaining and purchasing equipment for the Special Education/Special Needs Program. 10. Compiles and maintains reports and records related to educational issues as required by the principal. 11. Participates in Tribal Council meetings, in-service trainings, and conferences as directed by the principal. 12. Works in coordination with Tribal, public, and private agencies, organizations, and professional individuals in securing and providing services for children 13. Responsible for developing activities and training opportunities for staff to develop a knowledge base and implement activities for students. 14. Participates in a positive, supportive team-oriented environment. 15. Performs other job-related duties as requested. QUALIFICATIONS: Must have a BA/BS in Education or related field. Must have 3 years of experience providing special education services to elementary students. Must have 1 year of supervisory experience. Must have strong computer experience in software programs including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Must have valid Driver's License for state of residency and be insurable under the Tribal Vehicle insurance policy. Must pass a thorough background check including Criminal History and fingerprint check. Must pass a pre-employment drug test. PREFERRED QUALLIFICATIONS: Experience working with Native American Children. The ability to speak and/or learn the Ute Language. An MA/MS degree in Education or related field. 2 years of experience performing management duties in an educational environment. Knowledge and understanding of Southern Ute Indian Tribe. TERO preference.