SAIF (Specialist in the Assessment of Intellectual Functioning)

Job Summary: The Specialist in Assessment for Intellectual Functioning provides expertise in the assessment of intellectual functioning across all grade levels and schools within the district. This role is crucial for evaluating students' cognitive abilities, identifying students eligibility for educational disabilities per IDEA and offering insights based upon assessments and best practices. The specialist works closely with educational teams, including school psychologists, special education teachers, administrators, and parents, to ensure accurate assessments that support student success. Responsibilities: Conduct Cognitive and Intellectual Assessments: Administer and interpret a variety of cognitive and intellectual assessments for students at all grade levels to determine their intellectual functioning Consultation and Collaboration: Work collaboratively with school psychologists, special education teams, and educators district-wide to interpret results, offer recommendations, and support the development of IEPs based on assessment data. Training and Professional Development: Provide training and professional development to district staff on best practices for assessing intellectual functioning, differentiating between intellectual disabilities and other disabilities, and utilizing assessment data to inform instructional practices. Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze assessment data to identify trends, gaps, and areas of concern related to intellectual functioning across the district. Prepare reports summarizing findings and present them to administrators, teachers, and relevant stakeholders. Develop and Update Assessment Protocols: Create, update, and maintain district-wide procedures for assessing intellectual functioning, ensuring that assessments align with current standards and best practices. Support for Special Education Eligibility: Assist in the evaluation of students for eligibility for special education services under the intellectual disability category. Provide guidance on the selection of appropriate assessments and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Individualized Education Programs (IEP) Support: Support the development and review of IEPs for students with intellectual disabilities, ensuring that assessment results are accurately reflected in educational goals, accommodations, and services. Stay Current with Research and Best Practices: Continuously research advancements in the field of cognitive and intellectual assessments, and ensure the use of valid, reliable, and evidence-based assessment tools. Education and Certification: Master's or Doctoral degree in School Psychology, Special Education, Educational Psychology, or a related field. Licensed or certified in school psychology or relevant state certification in assessments for intellectual disabilities. Certification or training in the administration of standardized intelligence tests (e.g., WISC-V, WAIS-IV, etc.) is preferred. Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in administering cognitive assessments and working with students with intellectual disabilities or giftedness in a school or clinical setting. Experience in training educators and staff in assessment practices and data interpretation. Expertise is administering, scoring and interpreting assessments of individual intelligence and cognitive processing, assessments of academic achievement, and assessments of functional achievement Knowledge and Skills: In-depth understanding of intellectual functioning, cognitive assessments, and diagnostic criteria for educational disabilities. Familiarity with IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and other relevant state/federal regulations related to special education and intellectual functioning. Strong data analysis skills and the ability to create clear, concise reports. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders. Strong organizational and time management skills.