Coordinator, Litigation, Special Education Due Process Department

Los Angeles Unified School District

9d•$149,190 - $185,809•Onsite

About The Position

The Los Angeles Unified School District SELPA/Division of Special Education is seeking a Coordinator, Litigation for the Special Education Due Process Department. This role operates under the general direction of the Executive Director, Special Education or their administrative designee. The primary responsibilities involve representing the District in formal due process resolutions, analyzing due process pleadings, mentoring and training staff on IEP dispute resolution, and developing training materials. The coordinator will also act as a liaison with various district offices and provide technical expertise for implementing interventions and supports for students with disabilities. Additionally, the role assists in data coordination for reports and monitoring, helps resolve complex staff issues, communicates with constituents confidentially, supervises personnel, and performs other assigned duties. During critical shortages or emergencies, the coordinator may temporarily perform other duties as authorized.

Requirements

At least eight (8) years of successful, full-time public school service in a certificated position(s), with no fewer than two (2) years of which must have been in a leadership position(s) (e.g. coordinator, instructional coach, dean)
At least three (3) years of successful, full-time public school experience working with students with disabilities in a certificated capacity
A valid California Administrative Services Credential
An earned master’s degree or advanced degree of at least equivalent standard conferred by a regionally-accredited college or university
Completion of required Multicultural Education and Master Plan coursework (Applicants have one year to complete this requirement.)

Nice To Haves

Experience as a school site administrator supervising special education programs, school psychologist(s), or specialist(s) with the Division of Special Education
Successful experience in implementing special education policies, procedures, and programs
Expert knowledge of state and federal mandates regarding students with disabilities, implementing regulations, special education best practices, and research on emerging practices in the education of students with disabilities
Comprehensive knowledge of how to meet the instructional and behavioral needs of students with disabilities
Expertise in dispute resolution, conflict management and Special Education litigation processes
In-depth knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Compliance Complaint process under the California Department of Education, and complaint procedures
Knowledge of District policies and procedures related to students with disabilities and access for all students
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with staff, parents, and outside agencies or other school districts
Expertise in conflict resolution and/or mediation skills with successful past experience as a mediator, team leader, or committee chair
Excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to effectively and collaboratively work with central office, region staff, and all stakeholder groups (school staff, students, parents, and community members)
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks with effective time management skills
Strong computer skills including experience in the use of Welligent, MiSiS, Excel, Access, and Outlook applications
Ability to travel to sites throughout the District

Responsibilities

Represents the District in all aspects of formal due process resolutions, including mediation and settlement processes involving the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH)
Analyzes and researches due process pleadings for claims related to substantive and/or procedural violations
Mentors, coaches, and provides training to region, school site, and Division of Special Education staff in all areas related to Individualized Education Program (IEP) dispute resolution
Analyzes complaint management data to develop training modules, materials, online trainings, and coaching sessions that will build the capacity of region and school-site staff to work effectively in planning, holding, and implementing IEP team meetings, including the provision of services and supports for students with disabilities
Acts as a liaison with central office, region offices, Division of Special Education, and LAUSD Charter SELPA staff in matters related to due process
Provides technical expertise to school support teams in the implementation of interventions, supports, and training to increase positive outcomes for students with disabilities
Assists in the coordination and analysis of data needed to prepare reports, monitor due process, and perform informal decision-making activities including recommendations for monetary and personnel efficiencies
Assists staff to resolve complex or unique problems for which there is no current District policy
Communicates with all levels of constituents, both internally and externally, with a high degree of confidentiality
Supervises and evaluates the performance of subordinate personnel
Performs other duties as assigned
During periods of critical personnel shortage or other emergency situations, temporarily perform duties as directed within authorization of any credentials held and registered with the Los Angeles County of Education