Position: Special Education Teacher Specialist / Special Education Resource Room Teacher

Location: The Innovative Learning Center

Overview: We are seeking a dynamic and dedicated Special Education Teacher Specialist to join our team at The Innovative Learning Center, an alternative high school dedicated to providing personalized education and support for students with diverse learning needs. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing specialized instruction, support, and resources to students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) in both a classroom and resource room setting.

Responsibilities:

REEDS:
- Complete REED for achievement testing
- Initiate parent contact and get consent (In-person or electronically) or help support if other evaluators are on the team
- Connects with Psych, SSW, SLP, OT/PT for eval plan
- May upload parent signature to MIPSE and file in CA60
Evaluations:
- Complete achievement testing
- Complete student observations as needed (Time-on- task, classroom achievement, behavioral observations)
- Complete Eligibility Recommendation when academics are being considered
- Complete report for student eligibility and upload to MIPSE
Prior Written Notice
- Complete the REED process to determine if an academic evaluation is warranted.
- Send a copy to parents and file in CA60.
- Upload signed copy to MIPSE
Test proctoring for virtual psychology (cognitive/adaptive testing)
- Schedule cognitive testing with Psych and GE teacher
- Communicate with team about testing progress
- Schedule staffing to discuss student needs
- Print and organize testing materials for cognitive and adaptive assessments
- Proctor testing session and provide access to all needed materials such as camera, video, blocks for testing, pencil and paper
- Communicate around student absences, changes in schedule, running late, etc.
IEPs
- Lead and schedule initial IEP meetings
- Initiate team meetings to discuss eligibility when looking at academics
- Share achievement testing results with team members
- Attend Re-evaluations (when relevant)
- Provide reports to case manager at least a week in advance
- Upload reports to Mipse
MTSS
- Serves as an active member of the MTSS team
- Analyzes data to support interventions and MTSS process
- Collaborates with GE and SE teachers
Collaboration
- May collaborate with Special Education staff on accommodations and IEP development
- May attend ESU Community of Practice with other evaluation teams
- Develop and implement engaging, differentiated lesson plans that meet the individual needs of students with a wide range of learning abilities and challenges, integrating project-based learning and design thinking principles.
Resource Room
- Collaborate with general education teachers and support staff, to ensure that IEP goals and accommodations are implemented effectively in the classroom.
- Utilize a variety of instructional strategies, technology, and resources to enhance student learning and promote skill development, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student progress, assessments, and IEP documentation.
- Create a positive and inclusive classroom environment that fosters a sense of belonging and academic growth for all students, emphasizing collaborative project-based learning experiences.
- Provide support and guidance to students in the resource room setting, including assistance with academic skill-building and organizational strategies, incorporating design thinking approaches.
- Communicate regularly with parents/guardians, administrators, and other stakeholders to discuss student progress, concerns, and individualized support plans.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field (Master's degree preferred)
Valid State of Michigan teaching certification in Special Education
Experience working with high school students with disabilities in an alternative education setting
Knowledge of special education laws, regulations, and best practices
Strong understanding of different learning styles and instructional strategies to support diverse student needs
Experience with project-based learning and design thinking methodologies preferred
Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills
Ability to establish positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues
Flexibility, adaptability, and a passion for advocating for students with special needs

Benefits:

Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and professional development opportunities
Supportive and collaborative work environment with opportunities for growth and advancement
Making a meaningful difference in the lives of students who need it most

If you are dedicated to empowering students with disabilities to achieve their full potential and thrive in an alternative education setting, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and be part of a community that believes in the power of education to transform lives.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Until filled

APPLICANTS MAY APPLY AT: www.orchardview.org/employment

It is the policy of Orchard View Schools that no person shall on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, creed or ancestry, age, disability, height, weight, or marital status be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination, in employment or any of its programs or activities.