Program Support Specialist

Sylvania; Santa Fe (NM); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Sylvania is seeking a Program Support Specialist for Special Education to lead and coordinate district-wide special education programs for PreK–12 students.

The ideal candidate will hold an administrator's license, bring extensive experience in special education, and ensure high-quality, compliant services while supporting teachers, staff, and families.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Special Education or related field.
• Level 3 PreK-12 Special Education License required.
• NMPED Level 3B PreK-12 Administrative License or ability to apply within three months of hire.
• Minimum 10 years public-school experience in special education, with at least 2 years in leadership/administrative role.

Responsibilities

• Work cooperatively with colleagues, supervisors, and administrators.
• Demonstrate ethical behavior and follow district policies and regulations.
• Promote a productive environment and adhere to District Code of Conduct.
• Develop and maintain IEPs in accordance with legal requirements.
• Collaborate with school administrators, teachers, and support staff to design effective special education programs.
• Provide training and professional development for special education staff.
• Oversee assessment of students and progress monitoring of programs.
• Serve as liaison between special education staff, general education teachers, parents, and external agencies.
• Ensure compliance with IDEA requirements and prepare required reports.
• Assist in budget development and resource allocation for special education programs.

Skills

Special Ed laws

Organizational skills

Written & verbal communication

Professionalism & confidentiality

Education

Master’s degree in Special Education

PreK-12 Administrative License (Level 3B)

PreK-12 Special Education License (Level 3)

Job description

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university in Special Education, Educational Administration or related field;
• Level 3 PreK-12 Special Education License
• NMPED Level 3B PreK-12 Administrative License or ability to apply and receive (within three months from initial hire date)
• 10 years minimum public-school experience in special education, with at least 2 years in a leadership or administrative role.

Skills/Aptitudes

Strong knowledge of special education laws, regulations, and best practices. Good organizational ability; good written and oral communication skills; ability to maintain high level of professionalism and confidentiality regarding students, staff, parents, and school matters.

Position Summary

The Program Support Specialist for Special Education is a dedicated professional who provides leadership and support for the development, implementation, and assessment of special education programs for students in grades Pre‑K through 12. The ideal candidate holds an administrator's license and has extensive experience in special education. This role is pivotal in ensuring that students with disabilities receive a high-quality education that meets their individual needs and prepares them for success.

Essential Job Responsibilities of a Program Specialist

• Works cooperatively with colleagues, supervisors, and administrators.
• Demonstrates ethical behavior.
• Follows district policies and administrative rules and regulations.
• Follows District Code of Conduct policies.
• Maintains behavior appropriate to performing and accomplishing assigned duties.
• Maintains a suitable personal appearance as it relates to position.
• Promote an environment/climate conducive to productive performance.
• Ensure that special education programs comply with federal, state, and local regulations and standards.
• Develop and maintain Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in accordance with legal requirements.
• Communicates accurately and effectively.
• Complies with all School Board policies and administrative regulations.
• Program Development and Implementation:
  • Collaborate with school administrators, teachers, and support staff to design and implement effective special education programs.
  • Ensure that special education programs comply with federal, state, and local regulations and standards.
  • Develop and maintain Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in accordance with legal requirements.
• Training and Professional Development:
  • Provide training and professional development opportunities for special education staff.
  • Mentor and support special education teachers and paraprofessionals in instructional strategies, classroom management, and best practices.
• Student Assessment and Progress Monitoring:
  • Oversee the assessment of students’ needs and the development of appropriate educational plans.
  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of special education programs and services.
  • Analyze student performance data to inform instructional practices and program improvements.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Serve as a liaison between special education staff, general education teachers, parents, and external agencies.
  • Facilitate effective communication and collaboration to ensure coordinated support for students.
  • Conduct meetings with parents, teachers, and other stakeholders to discuss student progress and program effectiveness.
• Compliance and Reporting:
  • Ensure compliance with all IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) requirements.
  • Prepare and submit necessary reports to state and federal agencies.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student progress and program activities.
• Resource Management:
  • Assist in the development and management of the special education budget.
  • Identify and allocate resources, including technology, materials, and personnel, to support special education programs.
  • Seek out and apply for grants and additional funding opportunities to enhance special education services.
• Performs other job duties as assigned.