Educational Diagnostician

Educational Diagnostician

Location: Las Américas ASPIRA Academy (East and West Campuses)

Job Type: Full-Time (11-month)

Reports To: Director of Education Enrichment or Designee

Job Summary

The Educational Diagnostician is responsible for the academic and social-emotional decision-making process for students referred to the Department of Education Enrichment. This role serves as a liaison between families, community resources, alternative placements, general education teachers, case managers, related service providers, outside agencies, and other school personnel. The Educational Diagnostician conducts classroom observations, student evaluations, and personal interviews to assess academic and behavioral challenges. The position also plays a key role in recommending appropriate supports and services, assisting in the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and ensuring compliance with all state and federal regulations.

Key Duties and Responsibilities (not all-inclusive)

• Receive student referrals and implement the evaluation process.
• Comply with federal/state laws, State Board of Education rules, and school policies related to evaluation, placement, and planning for special education services.
• Collect and organize relevant assessment data from student records to create special education files required for compliance.
• Conduct classroom observations and personal interviews as appropriate.
• Participate in IEP meetings as the administrative designee to interpret assessment data, support IEP development, and ensure adequate resources are available.
• Provide professional development/PLCs for school personnel in identifying and supporting students with disabilities.
• Assist case managers with the creation and implementation of IEPs.
• Compile, maintain, and file all reports and required documentation.
• Develop and coordinate evaluations of assessment programs, recommending changes based on findings.
• Support the selection and purchase of assessment materials and equipment.
• Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and related personnel to enhance student support.
• Articulate the school’s mission and goals in assessment services to families and the community, soliciting support for program objectives.
• Provide supervision and feedback for case managers, as assigned by the Director
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Special Education, School Psychology, or a related field.
• Certification: Valid state certification/licensure in Special Education (or related field) required. BCBA certification is a plus.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience working with students with behavioral challenges in a school setting. Experience in case management preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Diagnostic procedures and special education practices.
• Education laws, regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Learning disabilities and evidence-based methods of support.
• Student learning processes and developmental needs.

Ability to:

• Demonstrate strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Maximize the educational achievement of students with disabilities.
• Coordinate resources effectively across departments and external agencies.
• Maintain accurate and complete records for compliance.
• Collaborate with case managers, administrators, related service providers, and community partners.
• Maintain strict confidentiality under state, federal, and HIPAA guidelines.
• Exercise sound judgment and recommend appropriate methods to address behavioral and adjustment problems.

Supervisory Controls

• Works under the direct supervision of the Heads of School and in collaboration with the Director of Enrichment Services.
• Work is reviewed through conferences, reporting, and compliance monitoring.

Guidelines

• Federal, state, and departmental regulations.
• Strict adherence to confidentiality and HIPAA requirements.
• Professional standards, training, and best practices.

Complexity

• Requires significant judgment to balance academic, behavioral, and emotional needs.
• Involves patience, flexibility, and the ability to respond effectively in complex or unexpected situations.
• Requires analysis, problem-solving, and mediation in challenging circumstances.
• Involves managing multiple requests and priorities simultaneously.

Scope and Effect

• Ensures timely evaluations and accurate interpretations of assessment results.
• Directly impacts the placement and instructional programming for students with disabilities.
• Provides input to improve instructional strategies, services, and compliance.
• Provides guidance to substitute teachers covering for special education teachers or paras.

Personal Contacts and Purpose

• Daily contact with students, families, administrators, case managers, service providers, and outside agencies.
• Contacts are made to obtain, clarify, and provide information to ensure compliance, enhance collaboration, and improve student outcomes.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• This position will be paid on the teacher salary scale. In recognition of the additional responsibilities associated with Educational Diagnostician duties, there will be a $3,000 stipend, and an agreement outlining these extra duties will be provided.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Retirement plan and paid time off.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person