Diagnostician

Hodge Elementary; Denton (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Hodge Elementary in Denton, TX seeks an Educational Diagnostician to join the Special Education team. This role leads evaluations, determines eligibility for services, analyzes data, and guides teachers, parents, and staff on IEP development and implementation.

The position requires a Master’s degree and TX certification (SBEC) or LSSP license. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for effective collaboration and compliance with state and federal laws.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• TX certification as Educational Diagnostician (SBEC) or LSSP license.
• Three years of teaching experience (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and facilitate comprehensive evaluations for student eligibility in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Provide consultation on eligibility, IEP development, and evidence-based instructional strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all legal and procedural requirements related to evaluation, placement, and planning for special education services.
• Prepare and participate in IEP meetings within required timelines and provide updates to staff on pertinent rules and guidelines.

Skills

Bilingual (beneficial)

Communication skills

Education

Master’s degree in Education

Texas Educational Diagnostician SBEC certification or LSSP license

Job description

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Description

Reports to: Director of Special Education, Special Education Supervisor

Wage/Hour Status: Exempt

Dept./School: Special Education/Assigned Campus

Pay Family: Professional/Administrators

This position is a grant funded position and continued employment is contingent upon grant funding.

Primary Purpose:

Serve as a primary member of the multi-disciplinary evaluation and planning team responsible for determining student eligibility for special education services. Coordinate and facilitate comprehensive evaluations, including the assessment of cognitive and educational functioning and the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations. Provide consultation and guidance to teachers, parents/guardians, and support personnel on eligibility, IEP development and implementation, and evidence-based instructional strategies. Ensure district compliance with all legal and procedural requirements related to special education evaluation, placement, and service planning.

Education and Certification

• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Valid Texas certification as an Educational Diagnostician issued by the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC), or
• Texas License as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP), including LSSP Trainee status, as applicable.

Experience

• Three (3) years of successful teaching experience (preferred)

Knowledge and Skills

• Basic knowledge of federal laws, state guidelines and local district policies related to special education evaluation and services
• Comprehensive knowledge of diagnostic assessment procedures, instructional strategies and behavioral modifications and accommodations
• Exceptional organizational, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills to support evaluation processes, documentation, collaboration, and compliance
• Advanced ability to interpret and analyze assessment data to inform educational decision-making and eligibility determinations
• Bilingual proficiency in reading, writing, or speaking a second language (beneficial but not required)

Key Responsibilities

Evaluation, Assessment & Eligibility Determination

• Implement, complete, and adhere to required evaluation and eligibility procedures and timelines
• Select and administer formal and informal evaluations to determine student eligibility for special education services in accordance with federal and Texas Education Agency regulations
• Score and interpret assessment and evaluation data accurately and effectively convey results through written and oral communication (e.g., comprehensive report, IEP Committee participation, parent conferences)
• Update, maintain, and appropriately use assessment and evaluation tools to ensure accurate and compliant evaluation practices
• Comply with local, state, and federal requirements and regulations related to evaluation, placement, and planning for special education services

Data Collection & Records Management

• Collect and organize relevant evaluation data from students’ cumulative folder, classroom teacher(s), principal, support staff, parents/guardians and outside service providers
• Maintain accurate and timely records and reports in accordance with district and legal requirements
• Maintain accurate and compliant eligibility folders and related documentation
• Maintain confidentiality in the review and communication of student information in accordance with applicable laws and district policy

IEP Process & Legal Compliance

• Prepare for and coordinate IEP meetings within required timelines, ensure appropriate participants are included, address required components during IEP meetings, and demonstrate an understanding of legal procedures related to the IEP process
• Provide school personnel with relevant updates and guidance regarding federal and state law, Commissioner’s Rules, policies, procedures, and local operational guidelines related to assessment, evaluation, placement, and planning for special education services

Professional Learning, Leadership & District Engagement

• Serve as an active contributor on campus and district projects and teams
• Maintain current knowledge of research, best practices, and technology related to individual evaluation and student eligibility for special education services
• Provide campus and district professional development to address needs related to special education supports and strategies

Additional Responsibilities

• Adhere to all district policies, procedures, and expectations as outlined in the employee handbook and administrative regulations
• Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures
• Participate in professional development, faculty/department meetings, and special events as assigned
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the mission and goals of the department, campus, and district

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors

Tools and Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals, and other instructional equipment

Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking

Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds); may require regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities, control behavior through physical restraint, assist nonambulatory students, and lift and move adaptive equipment

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards; may require districtwide travel; may work prolonged or irregular hours

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

Appointment:

The Superintendent of Schools approves the appointment of this position based on the applicant’s training, experience, and expertise.

Diagnostician

Denton Independent School District Hodge Elementary - Denton, Texas

Position Type: Full-Time

Job Categories: Student Services > Educational Diagnostician

Job Requirements

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required

Contact Information

• Human Resources
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]