Fall River Schools reevaluate out of district team chair job description ahead of retirement

In a recent meeting of the Fall River School Committee's Special Education, Alternative Education, and Early Childhood Subcommittee, a pressing issue emerged regarding the role of the out-of-district team chair. As the current chair prepares for retirement, the committee is grappling with the need to redefine the job description to better reflect the unique responsibilities associated with this position.

With nearly 50 students currently placed out of district—many of whom have significant needs—the committee recognized that the existing job description does not adequately capture the complexities involved. The out-of-district team chair is tasked with not only managing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and family communications but also navigating intricate relationships with courts, the Department of Children and Families (DCF), and transportation logistics. These responsibilities have historically been handled by the current chair, who has voluntarily taken on additional duties beyond the standard expectations.

The discussion highlighted the importance of transparency in the hiring process, ensuring that potential candidates understand the full scope of the role they are applying for. The committee is considering adjustments to the job description to include summer responsibilities, which are currently not part of the role, to ensure that Fall River Public Schools has representation at critical meetings during that time.

Concerns were raised about the reception of these changes by the union, as the current chair's long tenure has led to a perception that the role has evolved significantly over time. The committee is contemplating whether to rename the position to avoid confusion with other team chairs, as the out-of-district role encompasses distinct challenges that require specialized knowledge and experience.

As the committee moves forward, they aim to finalize the job description and address the unique needs of the out-of-district students. The urgency of this task is underscored by the impending retirement of the current chair, with the goal of having a new candidate in place by the end of June. The discussions reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that all students, regardless of their placement, receive the support and resources they need to thrive.