PAY GRADE: 31E

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

The Center for Disabilities Studies (CDS) promotes increased access, opportunity and accomplishment among people with disabilities across ages and life domains through its multifaceted research, training and service portfolios. CDS is one of 68 University Centers on Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs) nationwide and is the largest research and public service center devoted exclusively to disability issues in the College of Education and Human Development. The Centers current programmatic units focus on transition to adult life (secondary education, post-secondary education, and employment), health and wellness, PreK-12 education, and assistive technology. Each unit implements a cohesive program of research, technical assistance, academic training, professional development, community training, advocacy, and information dissemination. CDS works in close collaboration with federal agencies and organizations, state agencies, other units at the University of Delaware, community organizations, service providers, individuals with disabilities, and families. Each unit provides opportunities to both graduate and undergraduate students to develop their knowledge, skills and disposition and contribute to the Centers mission. The center also manages the Disability Studies Minor, the Access:Ability Scholars program, and two large-scale leadership training programs. The Instructional Specialist is part of the School-age unit within the Center. More information about CDS is available at www.udel.edu/cds. The Instructional Specialist will contribute to leading the Delaware Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) TA Center for the state, funded by the Delaware Department of Education. The project supports districts and schools with the implementation of evidence-based instructional practices within an MTSS Framework. The Instructional Specialist will support Delaware local education agencies (LEAs) implementation and coordination of both academic and social, emotional and behavioral MTSS, best practices in IEP construction and implementation, and the implentaion of evidence-based practices in schools. The Instructional Specialist provides professional learning, coaching and monitoring of fidelity of implementation to educators in partnering LEAs. Activities are performed by the Instructional Specialist under the minimal guidance of the Program Director.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Designs and delivers professional development sessions, both in-person and online, to multiple levels of audiences including LEA leaders, district coordinators, teachers and specialists.
• Provides TA and coaching to District Behavior/MTSS Coaches and other related behavioral health providers in supporting schools to implement MTSS In coordination with LEA leadership teams, provides in-person and distance coaching (via conference call/webinar) to school leadership teams, school leaders, and teachers.
• Collaborates with LEA Leaders to create customized implementation plans based on local context that span multiple schools. Ensures brand integrity across docs, slides, etc.
• Assesses teams and implementers fidelity to district action plans and the fidelity of MTSS implementation in schools.
• Develops and uses multiple data sources to assess participant needs and tailor PD and coaching appropriately.
• Uses on-line tools and webinars to deliver professional development and provides guidance to school staff statewide on MTSS and implementation of evidence-based practices.
• Provides guidance to graduate assistants in preparation of professional learning materials and evaluation activities and report development.
• Collaborates with MTSS Program Manager to design data input mechanisms for project database and recommend changes in data collection procedures.
• Creates content for use in marketing materials as directed by the Program Manager and in coordination with Communications staff.
• Contributes to report development and data summaries for funders and otherstakeholders.
• Prepares presentations for community and agency meetings and participates in related state Department of Education and stakeholder meetings.
• Disseminates project outcomes through conference presentations, state education leadership meetings, and written materials.
• Provides guidance to graduate assistants in preparation of professional learning materials and evaluation activities and report development. Serves on hiring committees.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in special education, education or a related field and five years job related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Advanced degree in special education, education, or a related field preferred.
• Experience providing professional development and coaching to educators.
• Strong knowledge of evidence-based practices for professional development.
• Knowledge and professional experience related to supporting students with disabilities and systems integration in education Competency in special education research, policies, and instructional strategies.
• Program planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to problem-solve, implement and evaluate solutions.
• Experience with Microsoft Office, Google Apps and educational technology.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a variety of stakeholders including State Department of Education, district and school administrators, teachers, parents, students and community members.
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures and backgrounds.
• Commitment to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value.
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SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to travel to school districts throughout Delaware Availability to attend national conferences and other out-of-state events
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed Must have regular access to a private means of transportation.