State of Utah
As a Personnel Preparation Program Outreach Specialist, in collaboration with Utah Local Education Agencies (LEAs), Institutes of Higher Education (IHE), Stakeholders and USBE staff, you will work to support multiple pathways to special education license areas of concentration including competency-based options to ensure that students with disabilities have access to qualified instructors as outlined by the Utah State Board of Education and Office of Special Education Programs.
Principal Duties:
Respond to LEAs and educators regarding SpEd licensing questions and provide technical assistance to IHEs in supporting teachers on a path to licensure through a traditional university route or an alternate path.
Review and make recommendation of course syllabi for both in state and out of state programs to ensure alignment of programs.
Review transcripts for the development of Professional Learning Plans (PLPs) for APPEL-SpEd candidates.
Assist in the development of Competency-based endorsement for SpEd and licensure pathways in collaboration with IHEs.
Conduct Follow up check-ins with IHEs, answer emails, and phone calls related to program questions and concerns.
Monitor shared in boxes.
Grade in house coursework for APPEL-SpEd program.
Develop and facilitate professional learning opportunities for educators pursuing a special education license or endorsement in Utah.
Provide support for APPEL-SpEd, and IHE teacher candidates and IHE staff regarding pedagogical performance assessment (PPA), mentoring and clinical experiences.
Evaluate SpEd teacher preparation programs and processes for quality and effectiveness and make recommendations for improvement.
Design and implement new support processes.
Ensure alignment of programs across departments and within all sections of the USBE
Coordinate effectively with other state agencies and services providers.
Help develop and implement effective, equitable strategies and best practices, within a variety of settings.
Work to improve IHE overall understanding of Special Education licensing areas of concentration, the requirements and the pathways as defined in USBE policy.
Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate will possess:
A Utah educator’s license
A degree, license, endorsement, or equivalent competencies in special education
A degree, certification, or endorsement in educational technology
Experience working with statute, policy, including proficient knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
At least five years of experience working in education
Preference may be given to candidates which have:
At least three years of experience working with developing and facilitating online learning opportunities
Experience in educational coaching and mentoring at the IHE level
Experience developing micro-credentials
Experience in teaching and working with an IHE in special education or related services
Why You Should Join Our Team
The Special Education Services Section of the USBE is a high functioning, highly motivated collaborative team focusing on improving outcomes for students with disabilities. The USBE values employees and promotes collaboration and teamwork to improve educational practices. Additionally, the State of Utah offers an excellent compensation package which includes generous paid time off, top notch retirement plan options, and a variety of medical insurance plans. This allows you to stay healthy, secure your financial future, and spend more time with loved ones.
The Agency
The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) leads by creating equitable conditions for student success: advocating for necessary resources, developing policy, and providing effective oversight and support.