Educational Diagnostician or Licensed Specialist in School Psychology

Values and Beliefs

We Value…

Mission

Austin Discovery School is an academically rigorous public charter school dedicated to building

compassion, collaboration, and critical thinking by engaging students with the natural world.

Vision

Austin Discovery School is a tuition-free, innovative charter school serving children in grades K-8.

A small, community-oriented school, ADS offers naturally lit, beautiful classrooms with a low

student-teacher ratio. Classrooms are full of movement and social interactions as learners work

cooperatively and share their knowledge with one another. ADS features hands-on math and science and integrates literacy across the curriculum. All students attend an Essentials Class daily, which may include Eco-Wellness, Physical Education, Music, Art, Library, and/or Theater. Students in our program master the skills necessary to demonstrate social responsibility, good health, and environmental responsibility while creating and pursuing rigorous academic goals. There is a natural harmony when we come to appreciate and respect others, ourselves, and the environment we live in. By focusing on the whole child, ADS benefits our whole society.

Salary Minimum: $52,870

Job Description

Primary Purpose:

Assess the educational, learning styles, and program needs of students referred to special education services, grades K-8. Work cooperatively with instructional personnel to provide the most appropriate instructional programs for students with disabilities.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Master’s degree in educational assessment

Valid Texas teaching certificate, preferred

Valid Texas educational diagnostician certificate or valid LSSP license

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of diagnostic procedures, education of special education students, human development, and learning theories

Ability to interpret data

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

Two years teaching experience, preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Assessment:

-Select and administer formal and informal assessments to determine student eligibility for special education services according to federal and Texas Education Agency regulations.

-Compile and evaluate comprehensive student information including classroom observations; personal interviews with the student, teacher(s), parents and others; and relevant assessment data from student’s cumulative folder. Consult with parents and teacher concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data.

-Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and development of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for students according to district procedures

Consultation

-Present staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel in identifying and understanding students with disabilities.

-Assist classroom teachers with implementation of IEP.

-Support MTSS committee in tracking and monitoring students in tiered interventions.

Program Management

-Participate in the selection of assessment materials and equipment.

-Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the assessment program and make changes based on findings.

-Compile, maintain, and file reports, records, and other documents required.

-Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.

Communication

-Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors.

-Effectively communicate with colleagues, students and parents.

Other Duties as Assigned:

-Schedule and facilitate ARD meetings.

-Complete other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals, and other instructional equipment

Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking

Lifting: May require regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities, control behavior through physical restraint, assist nonambulatory students, and lift and move adaptive equipment; may work prolonged or irregular hours

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress