IMMEDIATE: Instructional Specialist, Resolution and Compliance Unit, 1.0 FTE

Job Description

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:

Under direction of the supervisor of the Resolution and Compliance Unit, assists in continuous monitoring of compliance with state and federal regulations regarding students with disabilities, students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and students with 504 Plans; assists in the development, coordination, and implementation of professional development related to compliance with state and federal regulations regarding students with disabilities; assists with the coordination of due process hearings; resolving parent/guardian complaints regarding students with disabilities through administrative review, mediation, and/or resolution sessions; assists with investigation of complaints filed with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). Provides technical assistance to parents/guardians and schools relating to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEA 2004), the Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), and Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) regulations and processes.

CERTIFICATE LICENSE:

Maryland Advanced Professional Certificate in special education or related field preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

Thorough knowledge of the organization of MCPS and MCPS policies and procedures. Knowledge of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) (13A.05.05); IDEA; the Americans with Disabilities Act; Section 504; other legislation that impacts students with disabilities; and Montgomery County Board of Education (BOE) Policy IOB, Education of Students with Disabilities. Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with parents/guardians and staff members to resolve disputes. Demonstrated leadership ability and ability to collect and analyze data, work with databases and spreadsheets, prepare data reports, and other correspondence. Ability to exercise independent initiative to perform both new and recurring assignments. Ability to use word processing and presentation software. Experience in developing and presenting professional learning for central office and school-based stakeholders. Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills. This position requires the knowledge and application of the six performance standards that have been established for the MCPS Teacher Professional Growth System.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, and EXPERIENCE:

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in special education or a related field. Demonstrated experience with data monitoring and developing and conducting professional learning. A minimum of five years or more experience in teaching, counseling, developing IEPs and/or Section 504 Plans; MCPS procedures related to Child Find, eligibility, evaluations and re-evaluations under IDEA and Section 504, as well as the development of IEPS, Section 504 plans, and testing accommodations. Demonstrated ability with collaborative communication skills to facilitate mediation. Experience with organizational communications, public relations, and community relations is desirable. Other combinations of applicable education, training, and experience that provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.