Legal Coordinator

About Gersh Autism Academy

For more than three decades, Gersh Autism Academy has been dedicated to empowering students on the autism spectrum to achieve their maximum potential. Our network of K-12 schools across the United States and Puerto Rico caters to individuals aged 5-21, delivering tailored education that suits each student's unique learning style. Alongside academic instruction, we provide extensive therapeutic services such as speech, physical, and occupational therapies, as well as vocational training for our older students. Our committed team works closely with families to foster academic, social, and emotional development, equipping students for successful futures beyond schooling.

We hold a steadfast commitment to helping individuals with autism lead fulfilling and independent lives.

Role Overview

We are currently seeking a skilled Legal Coordinator to oversee student placement, enrollment procedures, and adherence to legal requirements within our specialized education programs. This position collaborates closely with Admissions teams, School Leadership, and external legal representatives to ensure that placement choices are prompt, legally compliant, and consistent with special education regulations and organizational policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Guarantee adherence to federal, state, and local special education regulations, including IDEA and FAPE.
• Offer legal and procedural advice during admissions, placement, and enrollment activities.
• Examine student documentation such as Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), assessments, related services, and transportation mandates to guide placement decisions.
• Draft, distribute, monitor, and manage enrollment contracts, contract modifications, and Ten-Day Notices with precision and punctuality.
• Keep thorough, precise, and inspection-ready student records aligned with legal and internal standards.
• Collaborate remotely with Admissions, School Leadership, Transportation, Finance, and School Operations to meet placement and enrollment requirements.
• Work alongside special education attorneys, advocates, and school districts concerning referrals, placements, and due process issues.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated legal, admissions, or compliance experience in a special education or related educational environment is essential.
• Experience interacting with both referral and non-referral schools, with preference for applied behavior analysis (ABA) school backgrounds.
• Deep understanding of IEPs, educational evaluations, and special education recordkeeping.
• Knowledge of IDEA, FAPE statutes, and impartial hearing procedures.
• Preferred familiarity with the special education frameworks in New York City and Long Island regions.
• Bachelor's degree mandatory; advanced degrees or paralegal certification are advantageous.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with 401(k) matching benefits.
• Life insurance coverage including basic, voluntary, and accidental death & dismemberment options.
• Family leave policies covering maternity and paternity.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Opportunities for professional training and personal development.

Compensation

The annual salary for this position ranges from 60000 to 65000 USD, inclusive of base pay and key result area incentives.