Facilitator, ARD (2025 - 26 School Year) (8278)

BASIC FUNCTION & RESPONSIBILITY: Implement, facilitate and supervise the special education ARD/IEP process. Collaborate with other professionals and parents in the ARD process. Work cooperatively with instructional personnel to develop the most appropriate programs for students with disabilities according to the federal requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Valid Texas teacher certificate with Special Education Certification or other related Special Education certification

Special Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of ARD procedures, education of special education students, curriculum requirements, state assessment, graduation requirements, and legal requirements of IDEA and Texas Education Code
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage conflict and maintain a student-centered focus
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, and Google applications such as Gmail, Google sheets, Google docs, and Google Calendars
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally (verbal and written)

Experience:

• Three (3) years of special education teaching or diagnostic evaluation experience

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: The essential functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the characteristic duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities noted herein; however, this is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions found in this job description.

Management of Administrative, Fiscal and/or Facilities Functions:

• Identify need - schedule ARD meetings/staffings for: Annual Reviews, Failures Manifestation Determination Review, Graduation, Initials, Transfer and Permanent Placement meetings within district, state, and federal guidelines.
• Monitor initial referral timelines, schedule and conduct initial ARD committee meetings within the required timelines set forth by Texas Education Code.
• Investigate and interpret records from previous districts for transfer students to ensure that students are provided with a FAPE upon enrollment and to be prepared for the 30-day Permanent Placement ARD.
• Respond to parent and staff requests for ARD meetings in accordance with federal, state, and local policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with campus administrator(s) to schedule ARD meetings to ensure all required members are invited/excused/attend.
• Collaborate with other professionals (assessment staff, interpreters, related service providers, outside agencies, etc.) and provide timely notifications of ARD meetings.
• Inform agency representatives (DARS, BBT, etc.) of ARD meetings when appropriate and with consent from the parent/guardian/adult student.
• Confirm ARD meeting times/dates/location with parents and students, when appropriate.
• Complete ARD notices and distribute copies to all parents with a legal responsibility for the child in accordance with Department of Special Education Services procedures.

ARD/IEP Meeting Facilitation:

• Maintain neutrality in facilitating ARD meetings while maintaining compliance with district-approved procedures.
• Incorporate conflict management techniques when disagreements arise.
• Utilize appropriate questioning techniques to build consensus within the committee members.
• Ensure each member has the opportunity to participate.
• Promote a positive, collaborative environment for ARD meetings.
• Deal sensitively and fairly with persons from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Train and collaborate with families to ensure understanding of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards and the Guide to the ARD process.
• Provide and utilize the district-provided ARD agenda to ensure all required items are covered
• and committee members are prompted to report to the committee appropriately.
• Utilize district and state provided resources/materials to prompt committee discussions or clarify misunderstandings.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, students, and parents.
• Document ARD committee decisions within electronic IEP system.
• Generate deliberations of meeting in accordance with guidelines set forth by the Department of Special Programs and Services.
• Obtain appropriate parental consents (Medicaid, 5-day waivers, committee member excusal, etc.)
• Management of ARD schedules for multiple campuses

Monitoring and Compliance:

• Maintain compliance with Initial, Annual, Graduation and Permanent Placement ARD due dates based on federal and state regulations.
• Ensure that all required information is submitted into the electronic IEP system, including PLAAFPs, IEP goals, transition services, accommodations, behavior intervention plans and any other applicable supplements.
• Complete and archive/scan ARD committee documentation in the electronic IEP system and provide to required parties (parents, teachers, service providers, etc.) within district-required timelines.
• Provide copies of IEP documents to parents within the district-required timeline.
• Ensure all service providers and teachers have access to IEP documents according to district policies/procedures.
• Submit PEIMS data to the district PEIMS clerk within the timeline required by the Department of Special Programs and Services
• Complete IEP amendments at the request of parents, adult students, and campus and/or district staff.
• Maintain eligibility folders (electronic) in a manner consistent with Texas Education Agency requirements and local district policies/procedures.
• Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required.
• Ensure the confidentiality of information regarding special education students by abiding by and informing others of the guidelines set forth in the Federal Education Rights to Privacy Act.
• Respond to records request from parents or other parties in accordance with federal, state, and local policies/procedures.
• Collaborate with transportation services to ensure students receive appropriate transportation services.
• Coordinate and collaborate with campus testing coordinators to ensure state testing arrangements are accurate according to ARD committee documentation.
• Collaborate with campus administration and department chairs in an effort to monitor the implementation of IEP services.

Professional Development:

• Maintain current knowledge of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Texas Education Code regulations.
• Maintain current knowledge of district-approved policies and procedures.
• Maintain current knowledge of state testing requirements and eligibility for accommodations/test versions.
• Maintain current knowledge of graduation requirements according to Texas Education Code.
• Maintain current knowledge of instructional arrangements according to the Texas Student Attendance Accounting Handbook.
• Provide training to teachers, staff and administrators regarding Documentation requirements for modifications, days of removal, and progress. Determination of appropriate services and development of IEPs. Regulations and documentation for state testing.
• Maintain current knowledge and ensure updates are utilized in a timely manner with the Use of electronic IEP system.
• Ensure appropriate ARD etiquette is maintained and followed according to department guidelines.
• Attend regularly scheduled staff meetings, ARD facilitator meetings, Special Education Department Chair Meetings, and Campus Special Education meetings according to district expectations.
• Maintain a regular presence on assigned campuses to provide technical support/training.
• Attend training opportunities in the areas of transition, graduation, ARD facilitation, and Special Education law as assigned by the Department of Special Programs and Services.
• Maintain a positive and effective relationship with colleagues and supervisors.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None

MENTAL DEMANDS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals
• Posture: Prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, twisting
• Motion: Repetitive hand motions, frequent keyboarding and use of mouse
• Lifting: Occasional light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds)
• Environment: Occasional districtwide and statewide travel; occasional prolonged and irregular hours
• Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work with frequent interruptions