Special Education Program Coordinator

The Amherst Public Schools is seeking a full time, permanent Special Education Program Coordinator to provide strong, on-site leadership for two of our district specialized programs, AIMS and Building Blocks, currently at Fort River Elementary School. These inclusion based programs support students with one or more of the following: autism (level 1 & 2), attention/focus, academic, social, emotional, and/or behavioral challenges and who require programmatic support throughout the school day. The program staff includes special education teachers, counselor/psychologist, related service providers and para educators. This position may also include providing informal consultation to the building administration and other elementary schools.

The following responsibilities, skills, training and experience include but are not limited to:

Program leadership, development, design and monitoring

Collaboration with building and central office administrators

Facilitation of and chair effective, collaborative IEP Team meetings

Coordination of transportation, scheduling and staffing of van/bus monitors

Support the writing of IEPs and related IEP documentation

Work closely, collaboratively and effectively with program teachers, general education teachers, service providers, and families

Participation in the hiring process of program staff

Supporting the teacher evaluation process by conducting non-evaluative observations, providing written feedback, and collaborating with the lead evaluator

Organization and as applicable, provision of professional development to staff

Comprehensive understanding of the special education process and Massachusetts Special Education Regulations

Experience working with a diverse population of students through neuroaffirming practices.

Experience with students with special needs including teaching or providing direct instruction

Understanding of and experience implementing trauma informed practices

Understanding of and experience with students with autism

Highly effective executive function skills including being well organized, strong time management and scheduling skills, and able to work independently to meet timelines

Highly effective oral and written communication skills that promote and encourage collaboration with colleagues, families, and administrators

Strong positive, interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with students, staff, administration and families

Effective family engagement and partnership

Strong ability to multitask and work within a fast paced environment focused on student learning, data collection, and measurable outcomes

Strong student advocacy skills

Highly qualified candidates who are bilingual (Spanish / English) are desirable but not required.

All candidates must hold a Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education License as a School Adjustment Counselor or Psychologist. Amherst would consider a Special Education Mild/Moderate Teacher pending extensive experience and training with social, emotional, and behavior needs.