INDEPENDENCE SCHOOL DISTRICT

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Title

School District Hearing Officer

Reports To

Superintendent or Designee

FLSA Status

Exempt (or as determined by district policy)

Position Summary

The School District Hearing Officer serves as an impartial decision-maker responsible for conducting administrative hearings involving student discipline, residency disputes, employee matters (when assigned), and other issues requiring due process under district policy and state or federal law. The Hearing Officer ensures fair, consistent, and legally compliant proceedings while protecting the rights of all parties involved.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Student Discipline

• Conduct due process hearings for long-term suspensions and expulsions.
• Review evidence, witness testimony, and applicable district policies.
• Ensure students and parents receive all procedural protections required by law.
• Issue written findings of fact and recommendations or decisions within required timelines.
• Maintain neutrality throughout the hearing process.

Residency & Enrollment

• Hear appeals regarding student residency, guardianship, and enrollment eligibility.
• Evaluate documentation and testimony.
• Make recommendations or final determinations consistent with district policy and state statutes.

Employee Matters (if assigned)

• Conduct hearings involving employee grievances, disciplinary matters, or policy violations.
• Ensure confidentiality and compliance with applicable employment laws and collective bargaining agreements.

General Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate hearing records and documentation.
• Prepare written decisions supported by findings of fact.
• Interpret and apply Board of Education policies and administrative regulations.
• Consult with district legal counsel regarding procedural issues when appropriate.
• Provide guidance to administrators regarding hearing procedures and due process requirements.
• Maintain strict confidentiality.
• Stay current on changes in education law, administrative procedures, and due process requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of state and federal education laws.
• Understanding of constitutional due process protections.
• Strong analytical and investigative skills.
• Ability to evaluate conflicting testimony objectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to write clear findings of fact and conclusions.
• Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to remain calm and impartial in emotionally charged situations.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's degree required; doctorate preferred.
• Minimum five years of experience in educational administration, law, human resources, or a related field.
• Administrative certification preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of student discipline procedures and administrative hearings.
• Experience interpreting Board policy and state education law.
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may find appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience as a principal, assistant superintendent, attorney, or hearing officer.
• Training in conflict resolution or administrative law.
• Experience conducting formal hearings.
• Familiarity with special education discipline procedures under IDEA and Section 504.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods during hearings.
• Ability to review extensive written documentation.
• Occasional travel between district facilities.

Working Conditions

• Office environment with frequent meetings.
• Occasional evening hearings.
• Work involves handling sensitive and confidential information.