Diagnostician

Position: Diagnostician (8342)
JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title

Diagnostician

Evaluation Type

Professional

Department

Special Programs & Services

Pay Grade

A3

FLSA

Exempt

Date Revised

May 2024

Supervisor

Director of Special Programs & Services

BASIC FUNCTION & RESPONSIBILITY: Implement the special education assessment process. Assess the educational, learning styles, and program needs of students referred to special education services. Provide diagnostic information and work cooperatively with instructional personnel to provide the most appropriate programs for students with disabilities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

• Master's degree in Educational Assessment
• Valid Texas Teaching Certificate
• Valid Texas Educational Diagnostician Certificate

Special Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of diagnostic procedures, education of special education students, human development, and learning theories
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

• Two (2) years of teaching experience

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: The essential functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the characteristic duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities noted herein; however, this is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions found in this job description.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Receive student referrals and implement the assessment and evaluation process.
• Select and administer formal and informal assessments to determine student eligibility for special education services according to federal and Texas Education Agency regulations.
• Collect and organize relevant assessment data from student's cumulative folder, classroom teachers(s), principal, support staff, parents, and outside resource people.
• Conduct classroom observation and personal interviews.
• Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and development of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for students according to district procedures.
• Maintain an Evaluation Log designed by the district.

Consultation:

• Provide staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel in identification and understanding of students with disabilities.
• Assist classroom teachers with implementation of IEP.
• Consult parents concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data.
• Consult parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant individuals to enhance their work with students.

Program Management:

• Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.
• Assist in the selection of assessment materials and equipment.
• Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the assessment program and make changes based on findings.
• Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required.
• Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the areas of assessment, placement, and planning for special education services.
• Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
• Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignments.

Communication:

• Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors.
• Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None

MENTAL DEMANDS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals, and other instructional equipment
• Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
• Motion: Frequent walking
• Lifting: May require regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities, control behavior through physical restraint, assist nonambulatory students, and lift and move adaptive equipment; may work prolonged or irregular hours
• Environment: Exposure to biological hazards; regular district wide travel to multiple work locations as assigned
• Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress