Job Description

　　The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.

　　Please note that pursuant to Massachusetts General laws, contracted employees are not paid for the eleven scheduled holidays, do not receive any paid vacation, personal leave benefits or contribute to the state retirement system or social security. As a state contracted employee, you must participate in direct deposit and contribute towards the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' state alternate retirement plan ("OBRA Plan").

　　The Special Education Planning and Policy Office within the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is seeking to hire a part-time contractor to serve as a Special Education Policy Assistant.

　　Core responsibilities:

　　• Maintain knowledge of Federal and State special education laws and regulations and current trends and issues in the field of special education;

　　• Collaborate with other Department units;

　　• Demonstrate commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education;

　　• Research and compile best practices and resources related to equity in special education, parent engagement and other special education related topics;

　　• Review, revise, and design resources related to special education for educators across the Commonwealth;

　　• Utilize data to inform the development of technical assistance, administrative advisories, guidance, and other improvement initiatives as appropriate;

　　• Assist in the creation of policy and support materials related to special education;

　　• Draft or edit content for various writing projects specific to special education such as guidance, online resources, stakeholder email communication, etc.

　　• Organize and co-coordinate meetings for stakeholders related to assigned projects;

　　• Support leadership and colleagues in project development and implementation;

　　• Perform other duties as required

　　Preferred Qualifications:

　　• Knowledge of the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

　　• Knowledge of Massachusetts special education laws and special education regulations

　　• Understanding of IDEA General Supervision, its components and creating cohesive systems

　　• Strong organizational skills

　　• Strong computer skills, including word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software

　　• Ability to use technology to research, and produce written documents and reports

　　• Demonstrated strong business writing skills

　　• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

　　• Ability to be adaptive in response to the needs of schools, districts, and external stakeholders

　　• Understanding of educational policy at local, state, and federal levels

　　• Capacity to lead teams while anticipating, understanding, and addressing the challenges that come with different perspectives

　　• Ability to make a clear oral and compelling presentation of facts or ideas

　　• Ability to express ideas clearly in writing and to write appropriately for different audiences

　　• Ability to hold oneself accountable to fulfill individual and collective responsibilities

　　Some travel may be required for this position.

　　Questions regarding this position or the application process should be directed to [email protected].

　　Qualifications

　　Comprehensive Benefits

　　When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

　　Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

　　An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

　　The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.