What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Instructional Support Specialist position at District Support Center?
Primary Purpose:
The Special Education Instructional Support Specialist will provide direct coaching and support to certified staff in implementing high-quality, compliant special education services. This role will focus on improving instructional practices, ensuring compliance with IEP development, and fostering collaboration between special and general education teams. The Specialist will also mentor new special education teachers, assist in meeting ARD and progress monitoring timelines, and support professional development across campuses.
Qualifications:
Education/Certification:
- Bachelor's Degree required (Master’s Degree preferred)
- Valid Texas teacher certificate required
- Special Education certification required
Special Knowledge/Skills:
- Strong understanding of instructional coaching and adult learning strategies
- Knowledge of special education law, IEP development, and compliance requirements
- Ability to interpret and analyze student data to inform instruction and intervention
- Experience with differentiated instruction, specially designed instruction (SDI), and effective accommodations/modifications
- Strong collaboration skills to work with general education PLC teams on inclusive practices
- Effective mentoring skills to support new special education teachers
- Ability to develop and deliver professional development for certified and classified staff
- Excellent communication, organization, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage multiple campuses and support a variety of staff with minimal supervision
Major Responsibilities and Duties:
- Provide direct instructional coaching to all certified staff, ensuring high-quality, inclusive instruction.
- Support teachers in writing compliant, data-driven IEPs that align with student needs and instructional best practices.
- Assist in monitoring ARD and progress reporting timelines, ensuring all compliance deadlines are met.
- Mentor new special education teachers, providing guidance on instructional strategies, case management, and compliance.
- Work collaboratively with general education PLC teams to adapt and modify instructional practices, ensuring effective SDI implementation.
- Partner with feeder pattern Behavior Specialists to provide individualized student support and intervention strategies.
- Collaborate with the Coordinator of Special Education Instruction (CoSI) to train new teachers, provide ongoing professional development, and offer on-demand training sessions as needed.
- Train new paraprofessionals on job responsibilities, best practices for student support, and high-quality instructional strategies.
- Maintain a flexible schedule to support multiple campuses based on student and staff needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
