The Family Support Specialist will support parents and families of students with disabilities; arrange and provide training for parents and staff on a variety of topics and assist parents to understand the importance of advocating for their children.
This position is housed under the Parent Resource Center.
The Specialist must be the parent of a student with a disability or be a person with a disability.
The Specialist must possess knowledge of federal and state regulations pertaining to students with disabilities.
The Specialist must have experience in advocating for students with disabilities and their families.
The Specialist must have excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to communicate with a wide range of audiences.
Key Competencies And Essential Functions
Provide information about specific disabilities, the special education system, and legal and advocacy issues to parents, teachers, and community members.
Develop and lead daytime and evening support groups for parents.
Work with parents in individual sessions to address specific concerns about their children's unique needs at home, in school, and in the community.
Assist parents in working cooperatively with the school division to effectively plan for their children's education.
Collaborate with school level staff with promoting the Parent Resource Center and engage in school based activities such as Back to School Night to share and disseminate information.
Connect with community organizations that support students with disabilities and their families in order to build dynamic partnerships that provide our families with robust resources.
Arrange and present workshops on various topics related to special education.
Develop a database and disseminate information on a weekly/monthly basis regarding local, state and surrounding area supports, workshops, and other learning opportunities for parents and professionals.
Collaborate with other Parent Resource Centers and organizations to plan cooperative workshops and events for parents and professionals.
Develop and keep current materials and resources for parents and school division staff, including online resources.
May perform other additional duties or tasks as designated by supervisor.