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Special Education Complaint Investigation Specialist

Education Program Specialist I

Recruitment #24-005055-0008

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Introduction

The Maryland State Department of Education is dedicated to supporting a world-class educational system that prepares all students for college and career success in the 21st century. With excellent stewardship from our divisions, we oversee State and federal programs that support the needs of a diverse population – students, teachers, principals, and other educators throughout Maryland.

GRADE

State Salary Grade 21
Salary Range: $78,749 - $126,912
*State Salary Guidelines apply for current State employees.

LOCATION OF POSITION

Nancy S. Grasmick Education Building
200 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201

Main Purpose of Job

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a specialist to ensure compliance with State and federal regulations under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) relating to the education of students with disabilities. This includes primary responsibility for investigating complaints, conducting site visits, drafting response letters, and providing technical assistance in order to resolve complaints between public agencies and families.

POSITION DUTIES

Investigates complaints and conducts on site visits to public agency schools and administrative offices throughout the state, as necessary, to complete complaint investigations.
  •  Conducts onsite visits to public agency schools throughout the state, as necessary, to complete complaint investigations.
  • Gathers and analyzes data necessary to resolve complaints and maintains database and log system of complaints and supporting documents and prepares corresponding reports.
  • Researches applicable law and regulation to determine whether a violation of special education requirements has occurred.
  • Communicates with complaint parties and prepares written letters of findings and other correspondence. 
  • Provides technical assistance to public agencies, families, and Department staff regarding complaints and matters related to the IDEA.
  • Collaborates with other Division Branches to ensure consistent messaging.
  • Reviews current case law and information related to the IDEA, prepares materials and provides professional learning opportunities.
  • Provides support for Department activities, compliance reviews, and follow up activities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:   A Juris Doctorate, Master’s degree or the equivalent of 36 credit hours of post-baccalaureate coursework in equivalent 36 post baccalaureate credit hours of course work in Education, Special Education or a related field.

Experience: Four years of administrative or teaching (school-based or district-based) experience in, or affiliated with, special education programs, complaint investigation, due process, compliance, student advocacy and/ or the provision of special education services to e students with disabilities.   

Notes:
  1. Candidates may substitute a Bachelor's Degree with 6 years of the specified content experience to satisfy the Minimum Qualifications noted above.
  2. Candidates may substitute the possession of a Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university in a field related to the position option for one year of the required experience.
  3. The required field of education and experience are unique for each option and are established by MSDE in accordance with Education Article, Section 2-104 of the Annotated Code of Maryland.  The specific education and experience qualifications for each position are on record in the Human Resource Management Branch of the Division of Business Services. 
  4. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in Education Program classifications or Education Program specialty codes in the Education field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience and education.

SELECTIVE QUALIFICATIONS

One year of professional experience in evaluation, compliance monitoring, or related experience within or affiliated with an organization serving school-aged children with disabilities.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following preferred qualification(s). Please include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications.
  • Knowledge of special education laws regulations, policies, programs, and issues.
  • Knowledge of complaint investigation processes, school system due process rules, requirements, and associated data tracking systems.
  • Skill in responding effectively to problems and inquiries from educational agencies, school personnel, parents, and other concerned stakeholders.
  • Skill interpreting and applying laws and regulations governing early intervention and special education programs.
  • Skill interpreting and applying regulations governing early intervention and special education programs. 
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with local school systems and public agencies, ability to clearly communicate orally and in writing.
  • Ability to conduct legal research and manage multiple tasks.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must consent to State and FBI (CJIS) background check as a routine procedure for all employees.

SELECTION PROCESS

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified. The resulting list of qualified candidates will be placed on the eligible (employment) list for one year.

For education obtained outside of the U.S., a copy of the equivalent American education as determined by a foreign credential evaluation will be required prior to hire. The resulting certified eligible list for this recruitment may be used for similar positions in this or other State agencies. 

The assessment may consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of the position. It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.

BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Applicants must complete the MD State Government online application for employment and submit their professional resume. The application and resume must clearly demonstrate that the applicant satisfies the minimum qualifications for the position. Applications must be complete to be considered including all related job duties, even if those are also listed on an attached resume. Additional required materials may be uploaded with the online application, submitted to the fax number, or mailed to the address listed.

If you are unable to apply online, paper applications can be obtained from the link below and be faxed to 410-333-8950 or mailed to MSDE Office of Human Resources, 200 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. If there is a supplemental questionnaire, this must be completed and sent in with your paper application. Postmarks will not be accepted.

Inquiries can be made to 410-767-0019, TDD 410-333-3045. Appropriate accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities. If you have difficulty with your user account or have general questions about this online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850. TTY Users: Call via Maryland Relay.

Proof of eligibility to work is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Any misrepresentation of academic or experience requirements for this position may result in non-selection or termination of employment.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. Individuals with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country. All application materials must be received in our office by the Closing Date.

Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request.



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