Job Description
ABOUT OUR DISTRICT:
The Syracuse City School District is undergoing a new phase of innovation and transformation with the goal of ensuring that all students graduate high school with the skills needed to be ready for college and career. For Syracuse, all means all. The School Board and Syracuse community have charged the Superintendent with improving student achievement, and she is seeking a dedicated and diverse team of educators to partner with her in moving the district toward its goals.
The Syracuse City School District represents 35 schools and programs, including 6 high schools, 6 middle schools, 6 K-8 schools, 13 elementary schools, and 4 alternative education programs, serving approximately 19,000 students Pre-K–12. Of these students, 82.3% qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, 20.1% are served by the Office of Special Education, and 83% are students of color.
The Committee on Special Education (CSE) Liaison serves as a key connection between assigned schools, families, service providers, and the Office of Special Education. The CSE Liaison coordinates and facilitates the Committee on Special Education process to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, supports the development and implementation of individualized educational programs (IEPs), and promotes effective communication among all stakeholders. The CSE Liaison works collaboratively with school staff, parents/guardians, and community agencies to ensure students with disabilities receive appropriate programs, services, and supports in the least restrictive environment.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Undergraduate or Graduate degree in Special Education, School Psychology, School Counseling, Educational Administration, Social Work, or a related field.
- Minimum of five (5) years of successful experience working with students with disabilities in a public-school setting preferred.
- Knowledge of federal and state special education laws, regulations, and procedural safeguards, including IDEA, Section 504, and NYS Part 200 Regulations.
- Experience participating in and facilitating the IEP development process.
- Knowledge of current trends, best practices, and research in special education.
- Strong interpersonal, facilitation, and conflict-resolution skills.
- Excellent oral, written, organizational, and presentation skills.
- Ability to establish positive relationships with students, families, school personnel, and community agencies.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and special education data management systems, including IEP Direct.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain accurate records, and meet regulatory timelines.
- Ability to use effective communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills to support students with disabilities and their families.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES: ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Coordinate and facilitate Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings for assigned schools and programs.
- Ensure all CSE activities and documentation comply with federal, state, and district regulations and timelines.
- Serve as a liaison between families, schools, service providers, and the Office of Special Education.
- Provide guidance and support to parents/guardians regarding the special education process, procedural safeguards, evaluations, programs, and services.
- Review referrals, evaluations, and reports to ensure completeness and compliance prior to CSE meetings.
- Collaborate with school-based teams to ensure timely evaluations, annual reviews, reevaluations, and manifestation determinations.
- Monitor and support the development of high-quality Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Assist schools in implementing recommendations, accommodations, modifications, and services outlined in student IEPs.
- Maintain accurate student records and documentation in the district’s special education management system.
- Monitor compliance indicators and assist schools in addressing corrective actions and audit findings.
- Collaborate with administrators, teachers, related service providers, and support staff regarding student needs and programming.
- Facilitate communication among district personnel, families, and outside agencies to ensure coordinated support for students.
- Provide training and technical assistance to school personnel regarding special education regulations, procedures, and best practices.
- Assist in the resolution of parent concerns and requests related to special education programs and services.
- Participate in district committees, meetings, and professional development activities related to special education.
- Support district and departmental initiatives designed to improve outcomes for students with disabilities.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Education or designee.
QUALIFICATIONS
- New York State certification in Special Education, School Psychology, School Counseling, School Administration, or related area preferred.
- Demonstrated knowledge of the Committee on Special Education process and NYSED Part 200 Regulations.
- Five (5) or more years of experience working with students with disabilities and their families.
- Experience facilitating CSE meetings and developing IEPs preferred.
- Experience working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and community agencies preferred.
SALARYSALARY RANGEPer Contract Unit 1 contract
