Special Education Secretary/Coordinator

Job Description

Job Description

About The Treehouse:

The Treehouse Child Care Center is a growing early childhood organization dedicated to providing high-quality educational experiences for all children. As a NYSED-approved 4410 Preschool Special Education Program, we are committed to supporting children with disabilities through integrated preschool programming, related services, multidisciplinary evaluations, and strong partnerships with families and school districts.

We are seeking a highly organized, compassionate, and collaborative Special Education Coordinator to help oversee and support our preschool special education program. This individual will serve as a key liaison between families, school districts, evaluators, therapists, and classroom staff while ensuring students receive timely, appropriate, and effective services.

Position Summary

The Special Education Coordinator plays a critical role in the oversight and coordination of The Treehouse's preschool special education services. This position is responsible for facilitating the multidisciplinary evaluation process, coordinating related services, supporting compliance with NYSED regulations, assisting families in navigating the CPSE process, and promoting communication among all stakeholders involved in a child's educational program.

The ideal candidate is passionate about supporting children with disabilities, possesses strong organizational and communication skills, and is committed to building positive relationships with families, school districts, and service providers.

Essential Responsibilities

Evaluation Coordination

• Coordinate multidisciplinary preschool evaluations from referral through CPSE meeting.
• Track evaluation timelines to ensure compliance with NYSED Part 200 regulations.
• Communicate with families regarding evaluation scheduling, required documentation, and appointment reminders.
• Coordinate evaluators, therapists, physicians, and school districts throughout the evaluation process.
• Ensure evaluation reports are completed, reviewed, and submitted within required timelines.
• Attend CPSE meetings to present evaluation findings and answer questions regarding results and recommendations.
• Maintain evaluation records and documentation in compliance with state and federal regulations.

Related Services Coordination

• Manage and track related service caseloads including, but not limited to, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, etc.
• Ensure services are delivered according to students' IEPs, IEPs remain updated, scripts for services are maintained, and progress reports and disseminated.
• Monitor service delivery, attendance, and compliance requirements.
• Assist with service authorizations, referrals, documentation, and presentation at annual reviews.

Family Support and Advocacy

• Serve as a primary point of contact for families navigating the preschool special education process.
• Provide guidance regarding referrals, evaluations, eligibility determinations, and CPSE procedures.
• Support families in understanding evaluation results, IEP recommendations, and service options.
• Build positive relationships with families and ensure they feel informed and supported throughout the process.

School District and Community Collaboration

• Serve as a liaison between The Treehouse, local school districts, CPSE offices, and community agencies.
• Collaborate with CPSE Chairpersons, service coordinators, and district representatives regarding student needs and services.
• Maintain professional communication with all stakeholders involved in a child's educational program.

Classroom and Program Support

• Collaborate with special education teachers, therapists, and administrators to ensure programming is appropriate and effective.
• Support implementation of IEP services and accommodations.
• Assist with progress monitoring and data collection systems.
• Help identify barriers to student success and collaborate on solutions.
• Participate in program development and quality improvement initiatives.

Compliance and Documentation

• Maintain accurate student records and confidential information in accordance with:
  • IDEA
  • FERPA
  • HIPAA (where applicable)
  • NYSED Part 200 regulations
• Monitor compliance with evaluation and service timelines.
• Assist with audits, reporting requirements, and program reviews.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Special Education, Psychology, Social Work, Human Services, or related field.
• Experience working with children with disabilities and their families.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
• Proficiency with technology and electronic record systems.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Preferred

• Master's degree in Special Education, Education, Psychology, Social Work, or related field.
• Experience working with CPSE, preschool special education, or Early Intervention programs.
• Knowledge of NYSED Part 200 regulations and IDEA.
• Experience coordinating evaluations, related services, or case management.
• Background in early childhood education or special education, and experience working in an OCFS-licensed child care facility

Desired Characteristics

• Compassionate and family-centered approach
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Professional, organized, and detail-oriented
• Ability to remain calm and flexible in a fast-paced environment
• Strong advocacy skills
• Commitment to inclusion and high-quality programming
• Growth mindset and collaborative spirit
• Desire and ability to work as part of a highly performing team

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and education
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• 401(k)
• Professional development opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative work environment
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families

Join Our Team

At The Treehouse, we believe every child deserves access to high-quality educational opportunities and supportive services. If you are passionate about helping children and families navigate the special education process and thrive in a collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply.