Primary Purpose:

Plan, implement, document, and evaluate a comprehensive program of transitional services for at-risk and special needs students transitioning to Schools Division programs and back to their home campus/district. Establish a supportive framework for students that will ensure successful transition and reduced recidivism.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
• Texas Teacher Certificate
• Special Education Certificate (required for AB schools)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to coordinate transition program with multiple districts
• Ability to communicate effectively orally as well as written expression
• Strong communications, public relations and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work within specified behavior management system
• General knowledge of computer systems and software applications
• Reliable transportation to/from work and between worksites
• Bilingual skills preferred
• Ability to learn and utilize specialized therapeutic restraint techniques to control student behavior, when appropriate
• Ability to train other staff in CPI and CPR 

Experience:

• Experience in working with students with special needs and students in at-risk situations
• Extensive experience in special education, alternative education and/or juvenile justice programs

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Program Management

1. Develop/utilize an effective referral process to help students and others use transition services.

2. Coordinate assigned individual student placements, activities and services from the inception of assignment to Highpoint until the student has successfully transitioned back to his/her home campus/district.

3. Collaborate with other district staff to assist with transition services.

4. Assume responsibility for compiling, maintaining, and filing all reports, records and other required documents.

5. Provide appropriate time, resources, and materials to support the transition process.

6. Act as a liaison between HCDE Special Schools and the individual student’s home campus.

7. Conduct conferences with districts and HCDE staff concerning school and student issues as needed.

8. Ensure compliance with all state, federal, participating district and department requirements.

9. Maintain confidentiality of student information.

School Climate

10. Present for students a positive role model that supports the mission of the division.

11. Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisor, students, parents, and client district administrators and staff.

12. Comply with all division and local campus routines and regulations.

13. Effectively communicate with colleagues, students and parents.

14. Assess and respond to needs related to job responsibilities.

15. Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the transition program and recommend changes based on the findings.

16. Treat all staff with dignity, integrity and respect.

Student Management

17. Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.

18. Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant individuals to enhance their work with students.

19. Conduct physical student searches.

Professional Growth and Development Division/District

20. Take the initiative to develop needed professional skills appropriate to job assignment.

21. Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible.

22. Articulate the division's mission and goals in the area of transition to the community and solicit school districts' and parents' support in realizing the mission.

Community Relations

23. Demonstrate awareness of campus and school districts' needs and initiate activities to meet those identified needs.

24. Demonstrate the use of appropriate and effective techniques for parent involvement.

25. Meet with students, parents, and campus and district staff regularly to enhance transition services.

26. Perform other duties as assigned by campus principal and senior director.