The Administrative Assistant provides clerical and organizational support to the Special Education Department, ensuring coordination of Team meetings and adherence to timelines and procedures outlined by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and state/federal special education regulations. This position plays a key role in maintaining compliance with IDEA and Massachusetts Special Education law (603 CMR 28.00).
Schedule and coordinate Special Education Team meetings in accordance with DESE-required timelines (e.g., initial evaluations, reevaluations, annual reviews, reconvenes, etc.) Prepare and send required notices, including N1 (Notice of Proposed School District Action), meeting invitations, evaluations and evaluation consent forms Track and monitor all regulatory timelines, including: Process and distribute evaluation reports and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to families and staff Ensure accurate entry and maintenance of student records in the district's student information/special education data system Monitor return of signed IEPs and consent forms; follow up with families as needed Maintain confidential student records in compliance with FERPA and district policies Serve as a primary point of contact for families regarding scheduling, required paperwork, and general procedural questions Coordinate interpreter/translation services to ensure meaningful parent participation as required by DESE Assist in preparation for DESE audits, Coordinated Program Reviews (CPR), and internal compliance checks Support Special Education administrators and staff with reports and data tracking This is a benefits eligible position Salary is per the CBA between the Newburyport School Committee and the AFSCME Union