Valid Through
06/30/2026
Position Areas
Lead Teacher/Department Head
Description
Pay Grade: 820 (Min $340.54 per day)
Work Days: 185
Primary Purpose:
Entry level diagnostician position that will allow for proficient growth in the areas of evaluation, technical analysis of statistical information, determination of eligibility according to federal and state laws, ARD assessment participation, manifestation determination review ARDs, planning, and implementation of special education eligibilities and supports.
Qualifications:
Education/Certification:
- Approval of an accredited educational diagnostician program (required)
- Master's Degree
- Valid Texas teaching certificate with required endorsements
- University/Program supervisor letter of recommendation endorsing candidate as prepared to work at this level of evaluation and analysis
Special Knowledge/Skills:
- Working knowledge of evaluation procedures, including cross-battery assessment, and instructional strategies/accommodations
- Ability to work cooperatively with campus staff and itinerant staff and leadership
Experience:
- Three years of teaching experience
Major Responsibilities and Duties:
- Show a professional understanding of administering appropriate evaluations for each student based on state and local guidelines and the specific needs of the students, utilizing the newest methods (XBASS, CSEP, AU, ID, OHI SLD, AI, VI). Display a willingness to engage in evaluations at all age and ability levels
- Ability to accept and adapt quickly based on feed back by mentor and supervisor
- Participate in ARD/IEP meetings by conducting and observing evaluations, interpreting eligibility data and by assisting other professional ARD members. Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team and MTSS when appropriate to determine eligibility and referral needs
- Observe all federal timelines for evaluations, ARD participation, and for written evaluation reports.
- Employ collaborative decision-making processes, foster and promote collegiality and team building
- Assess and respond to needs related to the responsibilities of an educational diagnostician
- Obtain and use evaluative findings, including student achievement data, to examine program/service effectiveness
- Promote collaborative teaming by working with faculty and encouraging student-parent input to develop a more positive school climate in the area of special education
- Maintain FERPA policies at all times
- Adhere to LEA guidance on IDEA
- Conduct conferences with parents, students, and teachers concerning vital issues
- Collaborate with parents and outside agencies as appropriate
- Take the initiative to develop professional skills appropriate to job assignments and stay up to date on legal changes in educational laws
- Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible and serve as a role model for all district staff
- Disseminate ideas and information to other professionals; provide leadership in addressing the challenges facing the profession
- Consult with personnel from outside agencies when appropriate
- Demonstrate an awareness of school-community needs
- Articulate support of the district's special education program
- Follow all rules, regulations, and policies of Plano ISD and follow directives from supervisor
- Follow attendance policy as assigned by supervisor
- Perform other functions that may be assigned by the Administration and/or supervisor
Working Conditions:
Mental Demands:
- Ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written); interpret policy, procedures, and data; coordinate district functions; maintain emotional control under stress
Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:
- Frequent district wide and/or statewide travel; occasional prolonged and irregular hours; work with frequent interruptions; frequent standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, pushing and pulling; prolonged use of computer and repetitive hand motions; occasional lifting up to 50 pounds
SM021026