POSITION TITLE: Educational DiagnosticianEXEMPTION STATUS: ExemptREPORTS TO: Coordinator of Evaluation & Compliance - Special EducationTERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 10, 11, or 12 month, 2024-2025 school yearPrimary Purpose:Implement the special education assessment process. Assess the educational needs, learning styles, and program needs of students referred to special education services. Provide diagnostic information and work cooperatively with instructional staff to provide the most appropriate programs for students with disabilities.Qualifications:Education/CertificationMaster's degree in educational assessmentValid Texas teaching certificateValid Texas educational diagnostician certificateSpecial Knowledge/SkillsKnowledge of diagnostic procedures, education of special needs students, human development, learning theoriesAbility to interpret policy, procedures, and dataStrong organizational, communication (verbal and written), and interpersonal skillsExperience:Minimum of three years' experience as a classroom or special education teacherMajor Responsibilities and Duties:Assessment and Program Management
- Receive student referrals and implement the assessment and evaluation process.
- Select and administer formal and informal assessments to determine student eligibility for special education services according to federal and Texas Education Agency regulations.
- Collect and organize relevant assessment data from student's cumulative folder, classroom teacher(s), principal, support staff, parents, and outside resource people.
- Conduct classroom observations and personal interviews.
- Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and development of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for students according to district procedures.
- Assist in the selection of assessment materials and equipment.
- Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the assessment program and make changes based on findings.
- Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other required documents.
- Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the areas of assessment, placement, and planning for special education services.
- Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
Consultation
- Assist classroom teachers with implementation of the IEP.
- Consult parents concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data.
- Consult parents, teachers, administrators, and others to enhance their work with students.
Communication
- Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.
- Maintain a positive relationship with supervisors and staff.
- Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.
Professional Growth and Learning
- Participate in professional learning activities to improve skills related to job assignment.
- Provide training to assist school staff in the identification and understanding of students with disabilities.
- Maintain familiarity with the district's curriculum and initiatives to better serve the needs of students.
Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors
- Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment, computer, peripherals, electronic devices
- Posture: Prolonged sitting and standing, occasional kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, twisting, reaching
- Motion: Frequent repetitive hand motions, keyboarding, use of mouse, wrist flexion/extension
- Lifting: Lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds without assistance, 30-55 pounds with assistance, and more than 55 pounds with appropriate assistance
- Environment: Work is performed in a classroom and campus setting; exposure to contagious diseases; frequent and routine in-district travel
- Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress, work with frequent interruptions