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OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT → CLASSIFICATION → INSTRUCTIONAL SPECIALIST, PRESCHOOL EDUCATION PROGRAM (PEP)

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Instructional Specialist, Preschool Education Program (PEP)

MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS CLASS DESCRIPTION
OFFICIAL TITLE: Instructional Spec CODE: 0833 SQ/OQ: Not Applicable
WORKING TITLE: Instructional Specialist, Preschool Education Program (PEP) GRADE: BD MONTHS: 12
SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION: Under direction of the coordinator of the Preschool Education Program (PEP), supports implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and educational programs for students with disabilities provided in accordance with federal and state regulations. Major responsibilities include assisting staff at PEP sites in program planning, curriculum implementation, and use of technology to support instruction for students with disabilities; representing special education at Individualized Education Program (IEP) team meetings; coordinating and conducting staff development; monitoring data and preparing reports related to the provision of educational services to students with disabilities; and providing community outreach by consulting with parents.Assists the PEP Coordinator in managing the day-to-day operation of PEP, consults with staff (teachers, related services providers, parent educators, and paraeducators), provides direct support to staff regarding curricular, procedural, developmental, and transitional issues related to PEP students, and represents PEP at central IEP and due process/compliance actions. Completes required tasks during the summer to prepare for the next school year.KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS: Thorough knowledge of federal and state legislation and due process procedures related to provision of services to preschoolers (ages 3-5) with multiple developmental delays; typical development of children, ages 3 to 5 years; atypical development and educational techniques/programming to address multiple developmental delays; and knowledge of technology applications for preschool students. Excellent organizational skills for managing student information, developing schedules, and providing support at multiple countywide sites; ability to assist staff in identifying problems and generating solutions to address the learning needs of preschool special education students; knowledge of the range of services available to young students with disabilities and kindergarten transition options; ability to handle multiple tasks at a time and excellent human relations skills.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION STANDARDS
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Thorough knowledge of federal and state legislation and due process procedures related to provision of services to preschoolers (ages 3-5) with multiple developmental delays; typical development of children, ages 3 to 5 years; atypical development and educational techniques/programming to address multiple developmental delays; and knowledge of technology applications for preschool students. Excellent organizational skills for managing student information, developing schedules, and providing support at multiple countywide sites; ability to assist staff in identifying problems and generating solutions to address the learning needs of preschool special education students; knowledge of the range of services available to young students with disabilities and kindergarten transition options; ability to handle multiple tasks at a time and excellent human relations skills. This position requires the knowledge and application of the six performance standards that have been established for the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Teacher Professional Growth System (TPGS).
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE: Master's degree from an accredited college/university and Maryland APC in special education or related field, background in early childhood human development, developmental disabilities, and working with parents. Minimum of three years demonstrated successful experience as a special educator or related service provider required. Experience teaching preschool special education children desired. Experience working with school-based and central office staff administrators and service providers preferred. Experience designing and delivering staff training required. Other combinations of applicable education, training and experience that provide the knowledge, abilities and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.
CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: Maryland APC for special education teacher or related service provider required; certification for early childhood special education preferred.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: (Special requirements such as lifting heavy objects and frequent climbing.) Ability to lift and transport non-ambulatory children within the school environment.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: (Frequent overtime or night work required, etc.) Frequent extended day, night and summer work; daily or weekly countywide travel.
OVERTIME ELIGIBLE: No

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Gathers and analyzes data regarding student outcomes to determine effective practices and program needs.

Helps principals, program supervisors, and school staff members analyze pertinent data (MCPS-AP, ECOR, special education assessment) and incorporate results into continuous improvement planning.

Provides consultation, support, and technical assistance to administrators and school-based staff for program planning and curriculum implementation.

Problem-solves legal issues.

Provides educational leadership and facilitates the coordination of special education services with other MCPS regular and special education departments, units, and programs.

Coordinates purchase orders for classroom equipment, materials, furniture, supplies for new classrooms.

Represents the program at due process procedures and IEP meetings during the summer in conjunction with the coordinator.

Assists coordinator with transportation and class rosters for children referred to the program outside the official school year.

Assists coordinator in planning for each school year including new teacher orientation, recruitment and assignment of mentors for new teachers, staff and parent notification, staff training with Pre-K, Head Start and Pre-K Summer Institute.

Serves as liaison for transportation issues with MCPS staff and parents.

Performs all duties and responsibilities of the PEP program support position. Assists coordinator with legal process and procedures.

Assists with grant projects and collaboration classes.

Assists with completion of Legacy and future SEDS.

Keeps abreast of new program developments, reviews recent literature and research studies and reports, evaluates findings and suggests changes or modifications to improve existing programs.

Performs related work and other duties as required.
Class Established:
Date(s) Revised: 5/05
Last Reviewed:

This description may be changed at any time.