Special Education Parent Liaison (03013)

State of Montana • Helena, MT

31d • Onsite

About The Position

This position reports to the Associate Director of Special Education but must use personal initiative and judgment to resolve most problems and situations. This position will work with OPI’s Early Assistance Program supporting low level dispute resolution by focusing on the needs of parents in understanding the special education process and becoming equal partners in their child’s education. The role of the Special Education Parent Liaison is to provide guidance and resources to parents in non-legal special education matters. The parent liaison will help guide a parent attempting to understand and navigate various special education or school district processes and procedures.

Requirements

• Must reside in Montana.
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in special education, or related work.
• Knowledge of IDEA and special education processes (e.g., IEPs, evaluations, eligibility, discipline, transition).
• Strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Analyzes, interprets and summarizes information accurately and clearly.
• Strong operational, project, and time management skills.
• Ability to multi-task, adapt to changing priorities, and meet deadlines while demonstrating accuracy, attention to detail, perseverance.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive issues and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively to complete with a team to complex processes.
• Ability to effectively present technical and complex information to various audiences.
• Proficiency in developing written materials with detail and accuracy.
• Treating co-workers, supervisor and others with respect.
• Respectfully works as a team member effectively, resolving conflicts effectively, seeking improvement in oneself and profession, and accepting changes as expectations, duties, and work directions evolve.
• Effectively establish and maintain professional interactions and communications with OPI staff, parents, school district staff, state and federal agencies and other stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in special education.
• Familiarity with IDEA and Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM) related to special education.
• Experience with special education transitions – Part C to B and post-secondary.

Responsibilities

• Provide guidance and resources to parents in non-legal special education matters.
• Help guide a parent attempting to understand and navigate various special education or school district processes and procedures.
• Support low level dispute resolution by focusing on the needs of parents in understanding the special education process and becoming equal partners in their child’s education.

Benefits

• Work/life balance
• Family friendly
• Dedicated and caring colleagues
• Health coverage
• Retirement plans
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and Holidays (combination of up to 38 per year)
• Opportunities and room for professional growth
• Public service loan forgiveness-Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the PSLF.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level