Site Lead/ LEA Representative - Special Education - Bloomfield, NM : Job Details

Supervisor: Principal/Director of Special Education (GRANT FUNDED) ExemptGeneral Job Description: The LEA (Local Education Agency) Representative serves as a critical leader in the development, implementation, and compliance of special education services. This position ensures that all IEP meetings are legally compliant, timely, and collaborative. The LEA Representative reviews IEPs for accuracy, supports case managers through mentorship and training, collaborates with ancillary staff, and oversees caseload management to meet state and district deadlines. Work Schedule: Contract Days: 185 days Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in education or related field (Master's preferred)
• Valid New Mexico teaching or administrative license (Special Education endorsement required)
• Minimum of five years of experience in special education, preferably with IEP writing and team leadership responsibilities
• In-depth knowledge of IDEA, state special education regulations, and procedural safeguards
• Strong communication, organization, and leadership skills
• Experience mentoring educators and facilitating professional development
• Proficiency with special education software systems and data tracking tools

Physical Requirements: Sitting, standing, lifting and carrying (up to 50 lbs.), reaching, squatting, kneeling. Essential Duties and Responsibilities (other duties may be assigned): IEP Meeting Leadership & Compliance

• Act as the LEA representative during IEP meetings, ensuring that all components are compliant with IDEA, state regulations, and district policies.
• Lead IEP team discussions, ensuring appropriate educational decisions are made and documented.

IEP Review & Documentation

• Review all IEPs for compliance and clarity before finalization.
• Ensure all required components are present, including goals, services, and accommodations.
• Complete and issue Prior Written Notices (PWNs) after each IEP meeting, ensuring legal sufficiency and timely distribution to families.

IEP Scheduling & Timeliness

• Monitor IEP timelines and ensure that case managers are holding meetings on or before due dates.
• Provide reminders, support scheduling efforts, and intervene when meetings risk being delayed.

Collaboration with Ancillary Providers

• Communicate regularly with remote ancillary staff (e.g., speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, counselors) to coordinate service input for IEPs.
• Ensure providers are invited to meetings and that their services are accurately reflected in IEPs.

Training & Professional Development

• Provide ongoing training and technical assistance to case managers on writing compliant, student-centered IEPs.
• Facilitate monthly PLC (Professional Learning Community) meetings to support continuous learning, collaboration, and shared best practices among case managers.

Mentorship & Support

• Mentor and support new or developing case managers, offering coaching on IEP writing, procedural safeguards, and effective meeting facilitation.
• Provide case-by-case guidance and model best practices when needed.

Caseload Management

• Effectively manages their caseload and is responsible for developing and writing compliant, student-centered IEPs per state and federal guidelines.
• Maintain and regularly update district caseloads, ensuring alignment with student enrollment and service delivery needs.

Identify and track which students require IEPs prior to the state count date, and assist in coordinating timely completion.