Program Officer

Pittsburgh Public Schools • Pittsburgh, PA

383d • $107,248 - $107,248

About The Position

The Program Officer for Pittsburgh Public Schools will oversee special education programs within a designated regional cluster of schools. This role involves consultation, coordination, evaluation, and planning to ensure compliance with federal and state laws regarding special education. The Program Officer will provide professional development and support to staff, manage caseloads, and work with educational decision-makers to create inclusive educational opportunities for students with disabilities.

Requirements

• Master's Degree in a relevant field.
• Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) issued Supervisor of Special Education Certification or Principal K-12 certification with 5 years of Special Education experience.
• Five years of special education experience including classroom and supervisory/administrative experience.
• Five to seven years of supervisory experience preferred.
• Relevant management experience in supervising staff and overseeing programs.
• Extensive knowledge of Chapter 14 and IDEA regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and lead teams through a cycle of improvement.
• Experience in case management or IEP development.
• Working knowledge of educational research and supporting underrepresented students.
• Exceptional time management and analytical skills.
• Experience working within a public school system preferred.
• Ability to exercise confidentiality and professionalism.

Nice To Haves

• Experience evaluating teachers and paraprofessionals as part of annual reviews.
• Strong cultural competence and culturally responsive pedagogy.
• Excellent presentation and writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and administer all district programs for children with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
• Support the Local Education Agency (LEA) representative in observing students and coordinating specialized transportation.
• Serve as the LEA representative in the absence of the school-based LEA.
• Supervise and support special education classrooms to ensure compliance.
• Provide guidance and support to building administrators on personnel actions in special education compliance.
• Provide technical assistance to schools regarding program and placement concerns for students.
• Conduct formal and informal observations for Special Education teachers and/or paraprofessionals.
• Provide information related to due process and dispute resolution procedures to administrators, teachers, and parents.
• Collaborate with committees to develop, review, and revise plans for the inclusion of students with disabilities.
• Participate in special education-related activities such as PASA, ESY, and Functional Behavioral Assessments.
• Research and remain abreast of trends and changes in special education.
• Exercise confidentiality, professionalism, poise, tact, and diplomacy in meetings and training.
• Assist in evaluating, designing, and implementing PPS procedures.
• Provide ongoing consultation, coaching, mentoring, and support to special and regular education personnel.
• Support all teachers who have students with disabilities.
• Serve as liaison to public and private agencies that serve PPS.
• Participate in the development of the district special education programming and budget.
• Serve as a local liaison with parents and parent organizations.
• Work collaboratively with stakeholders to support effective teacher evaluation.

Benefits

• Full-time position with a salary of $107,248 per year.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Master's degree