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Special Education Program Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do special education program assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for special education program assistant in the United States is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

How long does it take to become a special education program assistant?

Becoming a special education program assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring postsecondary coursework or an associate degree in education or related fields. The hiring process can be quick if qualifications are met, but gaining relevant experience or certifications, such as CPR or behavior management training, may extend preparation time.

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, and some employers may require background checks or specific training.

What cities are hiring for Special Education Program Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Special Education Program Assistant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Special Education Program jobs?

The most popular types of Special Education Program jobs are:

What states have the most Special Education Program Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Special Education Program Assistant jobs include:

Special Education Director

Young World Physical Education

Penasco, NM โ€ข On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Special Education Director

Association of Charter School Education Services Peรฑasco Independent School District - Peรฑasco, New Mexico Open in Google Maps

Job Details

Job ID: 5857807
Application Deadline: Sep 04, 2026 11:59 PM (Mountain Standard Time)
Posted: Jul 28, 2026 6:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: To Be Determined

Job Description

QUALIFICATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE

DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EDUCATION

POSITION: DIRECTOR/COORDINATOR OF SPECIAL EDUCATION

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Elementary and/or Secondary Licensure in Special Education or currently working on Licensure.
  • Administrative Licensure by New Mexico Public Education Department or currently working in an approved planned program with a University/ College leading towards an NMPED
  • Administrative License.
  • Knowledgeable about or experience involving school administration and school finances.
  • Demonstrate leadership qualities.
  • Other qualifications determined to be necessary by the Superintendent.

REPORTS TO: Superintendent

SUPERVISES: Regular K-12 Special Education, and other assigned Categorical State/ Federal/Private Funded Programs; inclusive of Technology and assigned licensed and Non-Licensed Personnel/Administrative Personnel.

JOB GOAL: To provide direction to the Peรฑasco Independent School District with regards to their Special Education Program. All tasks and responsibilities will be carried out under the direct guidance and supervision of the Superintendent.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES

Director of Special Education:

  • Direct(s), coordinate(s), monitor(s), implements(s), supervise(s), and assess(es) assigned and/or existing State and Federal instructional programs, such as: REC/IDEA B (Entitlement, Discretionary, Pre-school), Special Education Program, Child Find, Section 504, and/or other IDEA-B Grants that become available inclusive of other assigned programs as funding becomes available.
  • Comply with all rules and regulations applicable to all programs, develop a Special education Manual with assistance of REC #2 and ensure compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provide training.
  • Schedule educational, appraisal and review committee meetings, for regular and new students.
  • Train Principals about the importance of attending IEP Meetings for Special Education as applicable.
  • Attend all initial and 3-year re-evaluation IEP Meetings for Special Education.
  • Implement General Screening and Student Assessment Team Plan.
  • Implement and supervise Full Inclusion Programs in order to obtain the least restrictive environment (LRE) as per IDEA B Application.
  • Meet regularly with diagnostician(s) and therapists and contractors for ancillary services.
  • Meet with special and regular education staff, counselors, administrators, and other staff regarding program implementation and student services.
  • Meet with staff and administration to open lines of communication and address programmatic concerns.
  • Meet regularly with administrators and District Leadership Team (DLT) members to discuss, plan and communicate about the special education program.
  • Review and coordinate with the STARS Coordinator at every reporting period, to ensure the data submitted to the state are accurate and timely in accordance with the NMPED timeline.
  • Prepare, review and submit other data required by the NMPED Special Education Bureau in accordance with their reporting calendar.
  • Train special education staff, counselors, administrators and other applicable staff regarding the Medicaid Reimbursement Process.
  • Oversee and implement the Medicaid Reimbursement Process, including the Random Time Sampling Report and others, as required by the Human Services Department.
  • Establish and facilitate a Parent Advisory Committee for Special Education Programs inclusive of the Gifted Program.
  • Review master teaching schedules, Kindergarten through 12 th grades and make recommendations for School Administration and Superintendentโ€™s approval.
  • Provide periodic instructional program observation(s).
  • Assess and monitor applicable Summer School Enhancement Programs such as Extended School Year (ESY) for students along with applicable administrative staff.
  • Serve as the district liaison for training and communication on student discipline and/or long-term suspension or expulsion in coordination with the school administrators as it relates to special education students.
  • Serve as a designee to the Superintendent in dealing with child abuse investigation and reporting.
  • Assess, recommend and schedule staff training for the Superintendentโ€™s consideration.
  • Assist in the preparation of annual budget relevant to Special Education services programs, and personnel.
  • Review expenditure reports, initiate budget transfers, budget increases, budget decreases, and maintain financial accountability for all IDEA B, or private funded categorical programs(s) in collaboration with the business manager and superintendent.
  • Monitor and update the existing equipment inventory which was purchased from assigned federal, state or private funds applicable to assigned programs.
  • Identify continued and/or new innovative programs/funds (Federal, State, Private) to enhance our existing programs or to implement innovative programs.
  • Prepare other reports, including program summaries, for submission to the Public Education Department, other agencies, respond to surveys and questionnaires and with Principal(s).
  • Compile operational statistics and gather such other data as the Superintendent may require for other projects, with assistance of principals, as it applies to SPED.
  • Research and disseminate information about new developments in special education.
  • Collaborate with administration to review and revise the Five (5) Year Facility Plan to ensure ADA and special education compliance.
  • Assist in developing job descriptions and Performance Development Plans/Growth Plans for Special Education Personnel.
  • Monitor and collaborate with staff to ensure that curriculum is aligned with the State Standards and Benchmarks and is being implemented kindergarten through 12 th grade for students with IEPs.
  • Report regularly to the Superintendent regarding any developments or problems within the district in the area of Special Education requiring the Superintendentโ€™s action.
  • Compile Special Education and/or Gifted student statistics as the Superintendent may require for other projects, with assistance of School Principals.
  • Collaborate and coordinate with administration on district-wide Staff Development Plans in areas that would improve outcomes for special education students.
  • Prepare monthly reports for the School Board and attend board meetings as requested by the Superintendent.
  • Perform such other tasks and assume such other responsibilities as the Superintendent may assign or delegate.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Term of Employment to be established by the Superintendent on an annual basis.

SALARY: Salary to be established by the Superintendent on an annual basis. (10 Hours Minimum Daily)

EVALUATION: Performance of the job will be conducted in accordance with provisions of the Boardโ€™s policy on Evaluation of Professional personnel.

Position Type: Full-Time

Job Categories:

Administration > Director/Coordinator/Manager

Job Requirements
  • At least 3 year(s) of relevant experience preferred.
  • Bachelor degree preferred.
  • Citizenship, residency or work visa required
Contact Information
  • Sharon Myers , Program Manager
  • P.O Box 16326
  • Albquerque, New Mexico 87191
  • Phone: 5756494872
  • Email: substitutes@nmaces.org
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