Location: Central Administration

 Work Days: 202

The Educational Diagnostician is actively involved at the campus level in implementing the special education assessment process as well as assessing the educational and program needs of students who qualify for special education services. Diagnosticians also provide diagnostic information and work cooperatively with instructional personnel to provide the most appropriate programs for students with disabilities.

*Must have a master's in educational assessment AND a valid Texas Educational Diagnostician Certificate*

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following. Other duties may be assigned by the Special Programs Coordinator/Special Education.

• 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 all applicable federal and state regulations.
• Collect and organize relevant assessment data from student’s cumulative folders, classroom teachers(s), principals, support staff, parents, and outside resource people.
• Conduct classroom observations and personal interviews.
• Schedule and participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with the interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and development of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for students according to district procedures.
• Provide staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel in the identification and understanding of students with disabilities.
• Assist classroom teachers with the implementation of IEPs.
• Consult parents concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data.
• Consult parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant individuals to enhance their work with students.
• Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.
• 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 policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignments.
• Assist with the coordination and development of student schedules and services prior to the beginning of the academic year.
• Assist with staff development and campus preparation for students serviced through the Special Programs department prior to the beginning of the academic year.

Skills/Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
• Ability to speak effectively before groups of constituents or employees of an organization.
• Ability and/or willingness to learn to use and understand Microsoft Office for spreadsheets, letters, and other written communications in order to effectively communicate information with employees, administration, and the Board.
• Willingness to learn and utilize the special education software program to maintain student records.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to grasp, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and /or move up to 25 pounds.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in educational assessment.
• Valid Texas teaching certificate.
• Valid Texas educational diagnostician certificate.
• Knowledge of diagnostic procedures, education of special education students, human development, and learning theories.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Reliable means of transportation.