FY27: Cross Functional Team Special Education Instructional Specialist, 1.0 FTE

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION:
Under the supervision of the Division of Special Education, Department of Special Education, the Instructional Support Specialist serves as an expert within a cross-functional team led by the Division of School Leadership. Eighty percent (80%) of this role is dedicated to providing direct service and support to schools in the field, students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Works within a cross-functional team to assist schools in implementing and sustaining compliant instructional practices and the provision of specially designed instruction aligned with legal mandates. Provides on-site support to school-based teams, ensuring appropriate services, documentation, and interventions for students with disabilities. Develops and facilitates professional learning opportunities on instructional strategies and the provision of services in the general education classroom. Supports educators and administrators in understanding and applying state and federal regulations related to students with disabilities. Supports schools in resolving parent/guardian concerns through administrative reviews, mediation, and resolution sessions. Assists with due process hearings and investigations of complaints filed with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). Follows through with resolving identified corrective actions at the school level. Provides technical assistance to parents/guardians and school staff regarding IDEA 2004, and MCPS regulations and processes. The cross-functional team model fosters a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to school support, ensuring instructional strategies are aligned with student needs and school goals. Team members are expected to engage in shared problem-solving, data analysis, and instructional planning while providing coordinated and responsive support to schools. Must be flexible, proactive, and collaborative, ensuring equitable access to high-quality instruction for all students. Accountability & Supervision: Accountability: Reports to and is held accountable by the School Leadership Director, ensuring alignment with school needs and priorities. Supervision & Evaluation: Supervised and evaluated by the Division of Special Education. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: As required by the duties and responsibilities of the job. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Attendance at evening presentations, BOE, and other school system meetings may be required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Thorough knowledge of the organization of MCPS and MCPS policies and procedures. Knowledge of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) (13A.05.05); IDEA; the Americans with Disabilities Act; other legislation that impacts students with disabilities; and Montgomery County Board of Education (BOE) Policy IOB, Education of Students with Disabilities. Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with parents/guardians and staff members to resolve disputes. Demonstrated leadership ability and ability to collect and analyze data, work with databases and spreadsheets, prepare data reports, and other correspondence. Ability to exercise independent initiative to perform both new and recurring assignments. Ability to use word processing and presentation software. Experience in developing and presenting professional learning for central office and school-based stakeholders. Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills. This position requires the knowledge and application of the six performance standards that have been established for the MCPS Teacher Professional Growth System.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:
Master's degree from an accredited college or university in special education or a related field. Demonstrated experience with data monitoring and developing and conducting professional learning. A minimum of five years or more experience in teaching, developing IEPs, MCPS procedures related to Child Find, eligibility, evaluations and re-evaluations under IDEA as well as the development of IEPs, and testing accommodations. Demonstrated ability with collaborative communication skills to facilitate mediation. Experience with organizational communications, public relations, and community relations is desirable. Minimum of five years of experience in special education, and/or provision of professional learning to adult learners 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 Advanced Professional Certificate in special education or related field preferred. Must meet State of Maryland teacher certification requirements for special education teacher, or a related field. Eligible for, or holds, an Advanced Professional Certificate with special education teacher, kindergarten through Grade 12, desirable.