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Special Education Program Assistant Jobs in Indiana

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Special Education Program Assistant information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a special education program assistant?

To thrive as a Special Education Program Assistant, you need knowledge of educational strategies for students with disabilities, familiarity with individualized education plans (IEPs), and often a high school diploma or relevant coursework in special education. Experience with assistive technology, data entry systems, and classroom management tools is commonly required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting both students and teachers. These skills ensure that students receive appropriate support, fostering their academic and social development in inclusive environments.

What is the difference between Special Education Program Assistant vs Classroom Aide?

AspectSpecial Education Program AssistantClassroom Aide
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentSpecial education classrooms, supporting students with disabilitiesGeneral education classrooms, assisting teachers and students
Employer & IndustrySchools, districts, special education programsSchools, districts, general education settings
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Special Education Program Assistants focus on supporting students with disabilities in specialized settings, often requiring specific certifications. Classroom Aides assist in general classrooms, providing support to teachers and students. While both roles involve assisting in educational environments, the Special Education Program Assistant typically works more closely with students with special needs and may have additional training requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by special education program assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Special Education Program Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing diverse student needs, supporting behavioral interventions, and adapting to changing classroom routines. Building strong communication with teachers and therapists, participating in ongoing training, and staying organized can help address these challenges. Collaboration and flexibility are key, as working closely with the educational team ensures consistency and support for students, leading to a more positive learning environment.

How to work as a special education program assistant?

To work as a special education program assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require relevant experience or certification in special education. The role involves supporting teachers and students, assisting with classroom activities, and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs). Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with diverse learners are essential.

Do you need a degree to be a special education program assistant?

A degree is not always required to become a special education program assistant, but many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills such as communication, patience, and familiarity with special education practices are important, and some positions may require certification or training in areas like CPR or behavior management.

What is a special education program assistant?

Special Education Program Assistants are professionals who support teachers and students within special education programs. They help implement individualized education plans (IEPs), assist with classroom management, and provide one-on-one or small group support to students with disabilities. Their role is vital in ensuring that students receive the accommodations and support they need to succeed academically and socially. They may also help with daily living skills, communication, and behavior management under the supervision of licensed special education teachers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Special Education Program jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Special Education Program jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Special Education Program Assistant jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Special Education Program Assistant job openings:
Special Education Program Assistant jobs near you

Secondary Special Education Coordinator

MSD of Decatur Township

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

TITLE: Secondary Special Education Coordinator

REPORTS TO: Director of Special Services

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full Time- 194-day Contract

LOCATION: MSD of Decatur Township


Position Summary

The Secondary Special Education Coordinator / Behavior Specialist provides leadership, coordination, and direct support for special education and behavioral programming within the MSD of Decatur Township. This role assists the Director of Special Services in ensuring high-quality, compliant, and student-centered special education services. The Coordinator serves as a key liaison among schools, families, staff, and community partners, with a strong emphasis on behavior support, program development, and continuous improvement of instructional practices.


Qualifications
Education / Certification
  • Master’s degree or higher required


Special Knowledge and Skills
  • Thorough knowledge of federal and state special education law and the ability to apply legal requirements in collaboration with staff and parents
  • Strong understanding of the individual academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of students with disabilities
  • Ability to communicate effectively with students with special needs, parents, staff, and external service providers
  • Ability to implement district policies and procedures with fidelity
  • Strong data analysis and interpretation skills to guide instructional and programmatic decisions
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills


Experience
  • Minimum of five (5) years of teaching and/or professional experience in the field of special education


Responsibilities
Program Leadership and Coordination
  • Assist the Director of Special Services in directing and managing special education programs and services to meet diverse student needs
  • Serve as district liaison for Structured Teach, Behavior Support and Life Skills Program special education programs
  • Supervise and support transition services for special education students entering and exiting programs associated with Structured Teach, Behavior Support and the Life Skills Program
  • Assist in all special education matters as assigned by the Director of Special Services

Behavior Support and Intervention
  • Serve as the district CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) trainer
  • Support staff through training, coaching, and consultation in behavior intervention strategies
  • Conduct and/or support Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs)
  • Assist staff in developing, implementing, and monitoring behavior intervention plans
  • Support Behavior Support programming at DMS and DCHS

Instructional and Program Support
  • Support special education programming and instruction, including:
  • Life Skills programming at DMS and DCHS
  • Behavior Support programs at DMS and DCHS
  • Structured Teach programs at DMS and DCHS
  • Mild Intervention Instruction at DMS and DCHS
  • Encourage and support the use of instructional technology to enhance teaching and learning
  • Serve as a resource in the design and equipping of classrooms for students with disabilities
  • Work closely with DMS and DCHS content leads to support curriculum alignment and instructional quality

Assessment, Compliance, and Case Conferencing
  • Assist with conducting student assessments and making recommendations regarding placement and program management
  • Participate in case conferences and meetings to ensure appropriate placement and development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
  • Provide Procedural and Administrative Review (PAR) support for case conferences, as needed
  • Facilitate all manifestation determination meetings at the secondary level in collaboration with the Director of Special Services
  • Ensure student progress is evaluated systematically and that results are used to improve special education services

Professional Learning and Collaboration
  • Attend and/or lead Special Education Professional Learning Community (PLC) meetings
  • Provide and coordinate special education professional development, particularly at the secondary level
  • Collaborate with administrators, teachers, and service providers across DMS, DCHS, DTSE, NEST, and RISE

Communication and Community Engagement
  • Establish and maintain open lines of communication with parents, students, and staff through conferences and ongoing collaboration
  • Serve as liaison to community agencies providing services to students with disabilities
  • Use effective strategies to encourage parent and community involvement


Compliance, Reporting, and Professional Responsibilities
  • Implement policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rules, and local board policy
  • Recommend sound policies and practices to improve special education programs to the Director of Special Services
  • Compile, maintain, and file all required physical and electronic reports, records, and documentation
  • Maintain a high level of confidentiality
  • Demonstrate support for district student management policies and expected student behavior
  • Articulate and model the district’s Mission, Vision, and Culture Guide
  • Make positive contributions to the culture and climate of MSD of Decatur Township
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Services

Work Locations and Scope
  • Work with all secondary schools, including:
  • Decatur Middle School (DMS)
  • Decatur Central High School (DCHS)
  • Decatur Township School for Excellence (DTSE)
  • NEST
  • RISE