2025-2026 Program Specialist - Special Education - Open & Promotional bei Torrance Unified School District

The Torrance Unified School District consists of 17 elementary, 8 middle, 4 high schools, 1 continuation, and 1 alternative high school. The District also has 3 adult school campuses. Torrance Unified was established in 1947 and unified in 1948, and is nestled in the heart of the South Bay, in the southwestern part of Los Angeles County. Our District is bordered by the Palos Verdes Peninsula on the south, the beach cities - Redondo, Hermosa, and Manhattan Beach - to the west, and the cities of Lawndale and Hawthorne to the north. The District serves the entire City of Torrance and is governed by five school board members from five trustee areas. Mission Statement: The Torrance Unified School District strives to ensure that each and every student is educated and prepared to succeed in life. We are dedicated to maximizing individual potential and developing lifelong learners who will be contributing members in a global society.

PROGRAM SPECIALIST - SPECIAL EDUCATION

ADMINISTRATIVE RELATIONSHIP

Directly responsible to the Director of Special Education

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 1. Observe, consult with and assist resource specialist teachers, designated instruction and service instructors, and special class teachers.

 2. Serve as the Director of Special Education’s designee at all Eligibility and Planning Team meetings and in other areas of responsibility as requested.

 3. Assist in planning and implementing of inservice programs for parents, regular teachers, special education staff, and paraprofessionals.

 4. Serve as a resource in the planning, development, and implementation of curriculum and program activities.

 5. Serve as a liaison for the non-public special education schools.

 6. Maintain and prepare a variety of records, reports, and correspondence as required.

 7. Assist in budget planning for special education programs.

 8. Perform other duties as assigned, such as Staff and Parent Newsletter, liaison for community agencies, and coordination of SEARCH for handicapped individuals.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

 1. Knowledge of: Current laws and educational trends pertaining to handicapped children with exceptional needs.

 2. Education: Possession of a Master’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education in the area of special education; possession of a valid California Education Specialist Instruction credential; and possession of a California Administrative credential or equivalent experience in a supervisory role.

 3. Other: Demonstrate ability to work effectively with parents, professionals, and paraprofessional personnel and possess a valid California motor vehicle operator’s license.

Possession of a Master's Degree from an accredited institution of higher education in the area of special education; possession of a valid California Education Specialist Instruction credential (with CLAD or English Learner Authorization) OR valid California Pupil Personnel Services Credential with Specialization in School Psychology, OR valid California Pupil Personnel Services Credential specializing in School Counseling; and possession of a California Administrative credential OR equivalent experience in a supervisory role. DESIRABLE EXPERIENCE: Knowledge of and experience with all levels of special education programs.

Due to the high volume of applications received, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted by the hiring administrators with details regarding interviews. Salary placement allows for up to fifteen (15) years of prior experience, provided the following conditions are met: - The prior position was for at least 75% of the school year - You were under contract during that time - The school was WASC-accredited (or similarly accredited) - You held a valid credential while employed at that institution Please note: This job posting is subject to change or closure at any time without prior notice. The Torrance Unified School District is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action / American Disabilities Act Employer and does not engage in any employment practice that discriminates against an employee or applicant on the basis of race (including hairstyle/texture), color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, medical condition or physical or mental disability.