Special Education Program Assistant [Part-Time 0.86 FTE] (SY26-27)

Program Assistant in Special Education Department

The High Rock School and Pollard Middle School are seeking candidates of diverse backgrounds and experiences for the position of Program Assistant in the Special Education Department. This is a 10-month position in a welcoming, dynamic and inclusive environment. Diverse candidates, especially those from historically marginalized and silenced groups such as educators of color, are highly encouraged to apply.

This position is located in the special education offices of both the High Rock School and the Pollard Middle School.

Essential Functions and Duties of the Position:

The essential functions and duties listed below are intended as illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

• Process Individual Educational Programs (IEP)
• Maintain electronic special education records in the student information management system and the special education IEP system
• Create and maintain department filing system
• Keeps records confidential and up-to-date
• Maintain student files
• Process testing consent forms
• Coordinating processes and paperwork with special education staff and professional service providers
• Assist director/Coordinator to organize, plan and communicate special program services, including Extended Year Programming
• Maintain files for Medicaid eligible students
• Collect and disseminate student information and parental authorization to Medicaid claims processors
• Schedules meetings between parents and department staff
• Communicate with parents
• Processes forms in a timely manner
• Provides general clerical and secretarial support such as copying, filing, responding to inquiries, data entry, and mailings

Education and Experience:

• Requires High School Diploma or GED
• One year of administrative/secretarial experience
• Experience working in a special education department preferred

Skills, Abilities & Knowledge:

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle difficult situations with sensitivity and tact
• Experience and knowledge in a customer service environment
• Knowledge of school office environments
• Knowledge and experience with school office technology and equipment
• Skill in written and oral communications
• Ability to calmly and professionally interact with students, parents, teachers, co-workers and visitors in a dynamic environment
• Ability to organize, prioritize work responsibilities and use time efficiently
• Knowledge of special education program area
• Skill in coordinating meetings
• Ability to process completed forms in a timely manner

Physical Requirements:

Must be physically able to operate a variety of automated office machines and equipment, including a computer, basic office equipment, adding machine, telephone, etc. Must be able to exert up to five pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time, but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Must be able to lift/carry weights of five to ten pounds.

Selection Procedure:

All resumes will be screened and selected candidates will participate in a thorough interview process. The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate against students, parents, employees, or the general public on the basis of race, color, sex, homeless status, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or age. In addition to the protected classes identified and in regard to employment practices, the Needham Public Schools also does not discriminate based on genetic information, ancestry, or status as a veteran.

Compensation and Benefits:

Please review the Unit D Contract and this page to learn more about employee compensation and benefits. This position is classified as an AR2. Hourly Rate Range: $25.83-$28.64

The schedule for the position is Monday-Friday, 6 hours per day.

The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, active military/veteran status, ancestry, genetic information, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, employment policies, and other administered programs and activities. In addition, students who are homeless or of limited English-speaking ability are protected from discrimination in accessing the course of study and other opportunities available through the schools.

Needham Public Schools has a strong commitment to equity. Candidates who also have a strong commitment to this work are encouraged to apply. For more information on our equity work please visit our equity website.