Transition Specialist

Primary Purpose:

Plan, implement, document, and evaluate a comprehensive program of transitional services for at-risk and special needs students transitioning to Schools Division programs and back to their home campus/district.  Establish a supportive framework for students that will ensure successful transition and reduced recidivism.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
• Texas Teacher Certificate
• Special Education Certificate (required for AB schools)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to coordinate transition program with multiple districts
• Ability to communicate effectively orally as well as written expression
• Strong communications, public relations and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work within specified behavior management system
• General knowledge of computer systems and software applications
• Reliable transportation to/from work and between worksites
• Bilingual skills preferred
• Ability to learn and utilize specialized therapeutic restraint techniques to control student behavior, when appropriate
• Ability to train other staff in CPI and CPR

Experience:

• Experience in working with students with special needs and students in at-risk situations
• Extensive experience in special education, alternative education and/or juvenile justice programs

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Program Management

• Develop/utilize an effective referral process to help students and others use transition services.
• Coordinate assigned individual student placements, activities and services from the inception of assignment to Highpoint until the student has successfully transitioned back to his/her home campus/district.
• Collaborate with other district staff to assist with transition services.
• Assume responsibility for compiling, maintaining, and filing all reports, records and other required documents.
• Provide appropriate time, resources, and materials to support the transition process.
• Act as a liaison between HCDE Special Schools and the individual student’s home campus.
• Conduct conferences with districts and HCDE staff concerning school and student issues as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all state, federal, participating district and department requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality of student information.

 School Climate

• Present for students a positive role model that supports the mission of the division.
• Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisor, students, parents, and client district administrators and staff.
• Comply with all division and local campus routines and regulations.
• Effectively communicate with colleagues, students and parents.
• Assess and respond to needs related to job responsibilities.
• Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the transition program and recommend changes based on the findings.
• Treat all staff with dignity, integrity and respect.

 Student Management

• Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.
• Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant individuals to enhance their work with students.
• Conduct physical student searches.

Professional Growth and Development Division/District

• Take the initiative to develop needed professional skills appropriate to job assignment.
• Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible.
• Articulate the division's mission and goals in the area of transition to the community and solicit school districts' and parents' support in realizing the mission.

Community Relations

• Demonstrate awareness of campus and school districts' needs and initiate activities to meet those identified needs.
• Demonstrate the use of appropriate and effective techniques for parent involvement.
• Meet with students, parents, and campus and district staff regularly to enhance transition services.
• Perform other duties as assigned by campus principal and senior director

Salary : $72,514 - $78,390