Family Engagement Specialist - Non-Classified.

Position Summary The Family Engagement Specialist is responsible for enhancing the learning experience for students with disabilities through the development of resources, training, and activities to improve IEP teams, with a specific focus on ensuring meaningful parent engagement in the special education process and early dispute resolution. The role also oversees the operational day‑to‑day management of the Parents‑Encouraging Parents Conference (PEP) and the Colorado Special Education Advisory Committee (CSEAC). Major Duties and Responsibilities Develop and manage an annual budget for family‑school partnership activities and initiatives, including PEP and CSEAC. Manage day‑to‑day family‑school partnership activities, including oversight of parent engagement initiatives and activities, and responding to calls from parents. Develop resources and provide technical assistance and support to CDE colleagues, special education administrators/educators, disability rights and parent training organizations on the role of meaningful parent participation in the special education process to improve results for students with disabilities, consistent with IDEA and ECEA. Collaborate with CDE staff and offices to streamline processes to inform systems outcomes in general supervision, technical assistance practices, and professional learning, with a specific focus on improving meaningful parent participation in special education and monitoring processes. Collaborate with staff from the ESSU and cross‑offices within the CDE in the development of guidance and technical assistance to the field, with a specific focus on improving meaningful parent participation in the special education and monitoring processes. Review and revise general supervision and monitoring processes as part of continuous improvement activities, in collaboration with other ESSU teams, and under the direction of ESSU Leadership, with a specific focus on improving meaningful parent participation. Collaborate with GSM and other DR team members to improve system performance in monitoring and professional development activities with a specific focus on parent engagement, including improving access to dispute resolution options and participation in monitoring through educational benefit review, facilitated assessments, and AU determinations. Provide oversight and guidance on State Performance Plan/Annual Performance Report indicators related to parent engagement, specifically Indicator 8. Develop parent engagement training, resources, and activities to align with and directly support the Alternative Dispute Resolution Project in the prevention and early intervention stages of special education disputes. Other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Master’s degree or above in special education or a related field from an accredited university or college. Five (5) years of experience in special education, which may include experience as a special education teacher, social worker, case manager, related service provider, special education administrator, or parent liaison. Preference for recent, direct experience supporting family engagement in IEP teams and meetings. Knowledge and experience totaling eleven (11) years of education and related experience. Qualifications for Success Experience with culturally responsive practices. Demonstrated skills and experience building strategic relationships between family and school leaders. Showed experience in conflict engagement, alternative dispute resolution practices, and facilitative communication skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Strong attention to detail and high standards for accuracy. Understanding of Adult Learning Theory and ability to apply it. Ability to balance quality of work and productivity expectations. Ability to collaborate with internal and external customers. Ability to prioritize, organize, and meet changing departmental needs and deadlines. Proactive initiative and ability to identify problems and recommend solutions. Independent and team orientation. Capacity to lead professional learning in varied settings. Incorporate feedback for course revision and delivery. Demonstrate CDE’s mission, vision, and values through professional, respectful, and customer‑service oriented behaviours. Intermediate-to-advanced proficiency in MS Office programs, specifically Excel and Word. Willingness to travel as required. Preferred Qualifications Recent, direct experience supporting family engagement in IEP teams and meetings. Experience with conflict management and resolution skills. Neutral and process‑focused approach in contentious situations. Conditions of Employment Must be willing to submit to the pre‑screening process and pass a background check. Ability to independently determine, obtain means, and complete travel requirements (up to 10% of time). Willingness to work extended schedule as required by business needs. Report to work location per business needs. Acknowledgement of federal funding and availability requirement. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion The State of Colorado is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to building inclusive and innovative work environments. We encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply, and we provide employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected status. Benefits Flexible work schedules, hybrid work options, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term disability, Paid Family Medical Leave, holidays, vacation, sick leave, retirement through PERA, RTD Eco Pass, and professional development opportunities. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Colorado