Special Education Coordinator

SPECIAL EDUCATION COORDINATOR TYPE: Chicopee Education Association Unit B Category II SALARY: Per the Unit B Collective Bargaining Agreement STATUS: Non-Exempt WORK YEAR: 12 Months- 220 Days per year REPORTS TO: Director of Special Education OBJECTIVE: The Special Education Coordinator supports the Director of Special Education in the development, coordination, supervision, and evaluation of a comprehensive continuum of special education programs and services. The Coordinator provides districtwide leadership to ensure students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE) and that all programs operate in compliance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The essential duties and responsibilities listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. The Special Education Coordinator will - Program Development and Oversight Support the development, implementation, and evaluation of inclusive and substantially separate special education programs, including alternatives to out-of-district placements. Evaluate existing programs to determine effectiveness and recommend programmatic changes, staffing adjustments, supports, and curriculum enhancements as needed. Determine the need for new programs and services to meet student needs. Oversee program location changes, including the establishment of new classrooms or program moves between buildings, and supervise related staffing and logistical needs. Oversee and manage Extended School Year (ESY) programming. Staffing, Supervision, and Leadership Analyze caseload data and determine equitable caseload assignments for special educators, Team Chairs/Evaluation Team Leaders, related service providers, and paraprofessionals. Work with district and building administrators to ensure appropriate staffing levels and assignments for the current and upcoming school years. Work with district and building administrators to ensure appropriate staffing levels and assignments for the current and upcoming school years. Address staff performance concerns through coaching, supervision, and corrective action, as appropriate. Participate in the recruitment, hiring, placement, and assignment of special education personnel. Compliance and Regulatory Responsibilities Ensure district compliance with all applicable state and federal special education laws, regulations, and procedural requirements, including 603 CMR 28.00. Monitor, review, and maintain compliance of student records, IEPs, and service documentation. Disseminate updates regarding special education laws, regulations, and guidance to staff. Assist the Director of Special Education with matters related to the Bureau of Special Education Appeals (BSEA), Problem Resolution System (PRS), and required federal, state, and local reporting. Collaboration, Communication, and Professional Development REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Education and Experience Master's degree or higher from an accredited institution A valid Massachusetts educator license as a Special Education Educator and Administrator Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) endorsement Experience in public education, part of which must have been in teaching or supervising in the field of Special Education Must be trained, or willing to be trained, in the deescalation and physical restraint techniques utilized by the District Job Requirements At least 5 year(s) of relevant experience preferred. Master degree preferred. Citizenship, residency or work visa required SEE THE CHICOPEE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION