Sped School Improvement Specialist (00635)

This first review of applications will be October 6, 2026. Please submit the following required documents on the State of Montana Careers website:

• Resume - Please include dates of employment and your supervisor's name/phone number for each position.

For a complete job description, please email opi.careers@mt.gov

To be considered for this position, you must reside in Montana.

Why you would enjoy working here; Office of Public Instruction employees are a passionate group of professionals dedicated to leading and supporting our education system. We house a diverse collection of experiences with the 200 unique individuals we employ. Our specialists further OPI's purpose with applicable knowledge in education, health, research and analysis, nutrition, finance, administration, human resources, licensing and regulation, information technology, and many others. We are proud to serve 149,000 students pre-K to grade 12, their parents and guardians, 400 school districts, 16,000 educational professionals, and 3,000 adult learners.

Benefits of working for OPI:

• Work/life balance
• Family friendly
• Dedicated and caring colleagues
• Health coverage
• Retirement plans
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and Holidays (combination of up to 38 per year)
• Opportunities and room for professional growth
• Public service loan forgiveness-Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the PSLF.

Job Overview: The Special Education School Improvement Specialist ensures that Montana school districts and cooperatives implement special education programs in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Montana Administrative Rules (ARM), and applicable state and federal laws. This position plays a critical role in the oversight of the State's General Supervision System. Key responsibilities include conducting monitoring activities, providing training and technical assistance, and supporting continuous improvement activities of local education agencies (LEAs)to ensure students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE).The Special Education School Improvement Specialist works collaboratively with local education agencies (LEAs), families, and internal OPI staff to identify noncompliance, support corrective action, and strengthen systems that improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Behaviors):

• Knowledge of IDEA and special education processes (e.g., IEPs, evaluations, eligibility, discipline, transition).
• Ability to interpret and apply special education statutes, regulations, and policy.
• Strong understanding/background in K-12 education;
• Strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Analyzes, interprets and summarizes information accurately and clearly
• Strong operational, project, and time management skills;
• Ability to multi-task, adapt to changing priorities, and meet deadlines while demonstrating accuracy, attention to detail, perseverance;
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive issues and maintain confidentiality;
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team to ensure complex processes are followed.
• Ability to effectively present technical and complex information to various audiences;
• Proficiency to develop written materials and internal content with attention to details
• Treating co-workers, supervisor and others with respect;
• Respectfully works as a team member effectively, resolving conflicts effectively, seeking improvement in oneself and profession, and accepting changes as expectations, duties, and work directions evolve; and
• Positively interacts and builds relationships with colleagues and other educators through active listening and demonstrating familiarity with educational issues.

Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience):

• Bachelor's degree in special education or education.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in special education, general education, compliance, or related work.
• Other combinations of education and experience will be considered case-by-case.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in special education.
• Experience in special education administration, monitoring, auditing, or program evaluation.
• Familiarity with Montana Administrative Rules related to special education.

Does this sound like you?

Please tell us how and why by submitting your resume online, including any veterans or disability preference documentation. When submitting the required documents, you must check the "relevant document" box to ensure your attachments are uploading correctly to the specific application for this position. Documents not requested will not be considered in the recruitment process.

OPI is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

This position is in the TRS retirement system.

E-Verify: This agency is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov/