Educational Diagnostician SY 26-27

WHARTON ISD; Wharton (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

WHARTON ISD is seeking an Educational diagnostician to administer and coordinate the district's special education assessment process. You will evaluate educational needs, learning styles, and program requirements for students referred to special education services.

Responsibilities include conducting assessments, collaborating with ARD teams to interpret data, and helping develop Individual Education Programs (IEPs) that align with district procedures and state regulations.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in educational assessment required.
• Valid Texas teaching certificate required.
• Valid Texas educational diagnostician certificate required.
• Two years teaching experience, preferably in Special Education.

Responsibilities

• Receive student referrals and implement the assessment and evaluation process within state timelines.
• Select and administer formal and informal assessments to determine eligibility for special education services.
• Coordinate and participate in the ARD Committee to interpret assessment data, placement, and IEP development.
• Assist staff and parents in understanding assessment data and interpretation of results.
• Maintain and file all reports and comply with district procedures and state regulations.

Skills

Diagnostic procedures

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Special Education experience

Education

Master's degree in educational assessment

Texas teaching certificate

Texas educational diagnostician certificate

Job description

Primary Purpose

Implement the special education assessment process. Assess the educational, learning styles, and program needs of students referred to special education services. Provide diagnostic information and work cooperatively with instructional personnel to provide the most appropriate programs for students with disabilities.

Qualifications

Education/Certification:

• Master's degree in educational assessment
• Valid Texas teaching certificate
• Valid Texas educational diagnostician certificate

Special Knowledge/Skills

• Knowledge of diagnostic procedures, education of special education students, human development, and learning theories
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Experience: Two years teaching experience (Special Education preferred)

Major Responsibilities And Duties

Assessment

Receive student referrals and implement the assessment and evaluation process within state timelines. 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 teachers(s), principal, support staff, parents, and outside resource people. Conduct classroom observation and personal interviews. Coordinate and 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.

Consultation

Provide staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel in identification and understanding of students with disabilities.

Assist classroom teachers with implementation of IEP. 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.

Program Management

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 documents required. 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. Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignment.

Communication

Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors. Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None.

Working Conditions

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: Maintain emotional control under stress. Regular districtwide travel to multiple work locations as assigned; moderate lifting and carrying. May be required to lift and transfer students to and from wheelchair or assist with positioning students with physical disabilities.