Specialist - Special Education Program (SSC)

Mesquite ISD - Compensation Plans

Professional Compensation Plan

Pay Grade: 4
Shift Type: Full-Time
Wage/Hour Status: Exempt
Reports To: Assistant Superintendent - Administrative Service
  

EMPLOYMENT BEGINS: As soon as possible

PRIMARY PURPOSE
•    To support campuses in providing high-quality, individualized services for students receiving special education services by coaching and collaborating with special education and general education staff. 
•    The Special Education Program Specialist builds staff capacity, supports effective instructional and behavioral practices, and promotes inclusive, student-centered environments that meet diverse learner needs.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Certification
•    Bachelor's degree (required)
•    Valid Texas Special Education Certification
•    Master's degree in Special Education or related field (preferred)

SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS
•    Knowledge of a wide range of disabilities and instructional needs
•    Strong background in evidence-based instructional strategies and behavior supports
•    Knowledge of specially designed instruction (SDI) and inclusive practices
•    Understanding of MTSS, progress monitoring, and data-driven decision-making
•    Experience with behavior supports, including positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS)
•    Knowledge of IEP development, implementation, and compliance requirements
•    Ability to coach and support adult learners in instructional practices
•    Strong communication and collaboration skills with diverse stakeholders (students, families, staff)
•    Ability to analyze student data and provide actionable recommendations
•    Understanding of change management, facilitation, and conflict resolution
•    Experience with assistive technology, accommodations, and modifications
•    Proficiency in instructional technology and data systems

EXPERIENCE
•    Minimum of three (3) years of experience in special education
•    Experience supporting or coaching teachers (preferred)
•    Experience working with students across a variety of disability categories (preferred)
•    Other combinations of experience and qualifications as deemed appropriate

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

•    Collaborate with special education and general education teachers to implement effective, evidence-based instructional strategies
•    Provide job-embedded coaching, modeling, and feedback to support teacher effectiveness
•    Support the development and implementation of specially designed instruction aligned to student IEPs
•    Promote inclusive practices and access to grade-level curriculum
•    Observe students and classroom environments to identify needs and provide targeted recommendations
•    Support campus teams in addressing academic and behavioral challenges using proactive, data-driven approaches
•    Assist with implementation of intervention plans, including BIPs as needed
•    Assist with the completion of in-home parent training and evaluations as needed
•    Support student engagement, independence, and skill development across settings
•    Support parent training initiatives 
•    Participate in ARD meetings, MTSS/problem-solving teams, and staffings as appropriate
•    Collaborate with campus administrators and multidisciplinary teams to support student success
•    Support communication and partnerships with families
•    Design and deliver professional development on instructional strategies, behavior supports, inclusion, and IEP implementation
•    Support new teacher development, including New Teacher Academy and ongoing coaching
•    Provide differentiated support for both new and veteran staff
•    Assist with Instructional Specialist Requests and Placement Review Requests
•    Support progress monitoring, data collection, and documentation practices
•    Contribute to summer programming and extended year services as needed
•    Support implementation of district initiatives and ensure alignment across campuses
•    Support District Staff as a CPI Trainer
•    Perform other duties as assigned

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
•    None

WORKING CONDITIONS
Mental Demands
•    Maintain emotional control and professionalism in high-stress situations
•    Work collaboratively with students, staff, and families with diverse needs
•    Demonstrate flexibility, problem-solving, and confidentiality

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors
•    Frequent district-wide travel to campuses
•    Ability to lift and transport instructional materials and equipment
•    May assist with implementation of crisis intervention strategies (e.g., CPI)
•    May assist with classroom setup and environmental modifications

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required.