What are the responsibilities and job description for the Statewide School Psychology Support Specialist Educational Support and Related Services Specialists position at Dawson Education Service Cooperative?
Statewide School Psychology Support Specialist
Educational Support and Related Services Specialists (ESRSS)
for Low and High Incidence Disabilities
Location: Based in Little Rock
Travel: Moderate travel required
Travel Expenses: Reimbursed within specified guidelines
Posting Deadline: Open until position filled
The Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) - Office of Special
Education (OSE) is accepting applications for a Statewide School Psychology Support
Specialist to provide consultation, technical assistance, and leadership in support of special
education services across Arkansas. This role is instrumental in aligning evaluation and service
practices with IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and Arkansas regulations to
promote improved outcomes for students with disabilities.
The School Psychology Support Specialist will partner with school districts to enhance the
quality of special education eligibility evaluations and strengthen comprehensive service
delivery through coaching, professional development, and technical assistance. A key priority of
this role is to support the development of well-designed IEPs that lead to improved outcomes for
students with disabilities.
Ideal candidates will have experience conducting psychoeducational evaluations in school
settings with students of diverse ages and disabilities. Expertise in collaborating with
multidisciplinary teams, effectively communicating evaluation results to all stakeholders,
understanding and navigating special education documentation, and experience mentoring
other professionals.
Additionally, candidates should have a strong interest in helping districts implement a
comprehensive service delivery model. This model goes beyond conducting evaluations and
includes providing a full range of services, such as consultation with educators and families,
direct student interventions, and collaboration on academic and behavioral supports. It also
involves contributing to data-driven decision-making and promoting evidence-based practices
within a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS).
Key Responsibilities:
● Provide technical assistance, consultation, and coaching to schools, districts, and
educational service cooperatives aligned with IDEA, AR Regulations, DESE-OSE
initiatives and utilizing evidence-based and High Leverage Practices.
● Develop and lead professional learning opportunities to enhance educational outcomes
for students with disabilities.
● Collaborate with Educational Support and Related Service Regional Specialists,
DESE-OSE, Arkansas Collaborative Consultants, and other technical assistance
providers to coordinate services and build capacity across the state.
● Stay informed of emerging research and effective practices in school psychology and
special education and ensure compliance with IDEA and AR special education
regulations.
● Collaborate with state and national school psychology associations to promote best
practices in Arkansas.
● Project manage and coordinate capacity building activities in priority areas.
● Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
● Master’s/Educational Specialist degree in school psychology.
● At least 5 years of experience in a school setting.
● 3 years of supervisory or mentoring experience.
● Valid Arkansas Educator License as a School Psychology Specialist
● Strong organizational, analytical, and presentation skills.
● Excellent communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills.
● Proficiency in technology and computer skills.
● Knowledge of IDEA and Arkansas Special Education and Related Services regulations.
● Ability to work independently and maintain focus on the state’s vision and mission.
● Experience in developing and delivering professional learning opportunities.
● Experience working with an MTSS/RTI team.
● Experience administering evaluations with neurodiverse populations.
Additional Requirements:
● Valid Arkansas driver’s license.
● Valid Arkansas Educator’s license.
Compensation and Benefits
● Anticipated Starting Salary: Competitive salary offered, with consideration for
experience, certification, and qualifications.
● Contract Length: 240 days
● Benefits: Health insurance, paid personal and sick leave, and AR Teacher Retirement
System.
Application Process
To apply, submit the following to ellie.gaut@ade.arkansas.gov (subject line: "Application for
School Psychology Support Specialist"):
● Resume
● Contact information for three professional references
● Copy of a sample evaluation report
The Dawson Educational Service Cooperative is an Equal Opportunity Employer.