TEACHER - SPECIAL EDUCATION - SECONDARY

SUMMARY: Responsible for maximizing the learning experience of students with disabilities, planning instruction and/or adaptation of the education program to enable students to benefit from educational experiences, including academics, interpersonal/social skills, and daily living activities through the support of district-wide curriculum.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Participates in and assists in the development of Individual Educational Program (IEP) for students on caseload while managing and meeting appropriate deadlines..
Maintains student records regarding IEP goals, objectives and progress monitoring based on work output and observation, determines goals, objectives and directions.
Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEPs and behavior management plans.
Instructs individuals and groups in special education skill areas.
Actively engages, within the classroom, during co-teaching.
Plans curriculum, lessons, and special education programs and teaching methods.
Evaluates student progress based on papers submitted, test scores and observation.
Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students’ individual needs while participating in the general education classroom.
Develop appropriate pre-vocational opportunities; post-secondary transition goals and opportunities. Provide flexible inclusion schedules for students; as appropriate.
Develops and supports daily student schedules, support materials and schedule for ancillary services.
Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as liaison between home and school.
Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
Selects and requisitions appropriate books, aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records according to the District's curriculum.
Schedule, supervise and support para-educators to work in a variety of settings including pull-out and inclusionary settings.
Develops and implements Positive Behavior Support Plans and assists with conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments.
Ability to use technology, organize and coordinate work, communicate effectively with students, staff and parents; engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth, and maintain cooperative working relationships.
Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs; differentiated instruction; data systems/analysis; applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
Completion of Crisis Prevention Intervention training and support on the building crisis intervention team.
Other duties as assigned by building administrator

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in education from an accredited college or university required.
Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate along with a Special Education Endorsement or on an alternative path/route to obtain the required endorsements.
Must be highly qualified as defined by the Michigan State Dept. of Education
Experience working with at-risk youth and familiar with trauma informed practices
High degree of technology skills
Willingness to learn the tenants of Multi-Tiered System of Support and Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (MTSS/PBIS)
Desire to collaborate with peers and work as a team

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently walking and standing. In addition, the employee may frequently bend or twist at the neck and back while performing the duties of this job. Specific vision abilities required by this job include peripheral vision and close vision such as to read typewritten material. The employee may occasionally lift up to 25 pounds such as student equipment.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Position starts with the 2026-2027 school year. Wages, benefits, and work year as defined in the Teachers’ Master Agreement

SALARY: Commensurate with experience and background based upon the salary schedule in the AEA Master Agreement

LOCATION: Allegan High School

REPORTS TO: Principal and/or Director of Special Education

For questions about this position, please contact:

Melanie Cassar
Principal, Allegan High School
mcassar@alleganps.org

OR

Cassidy Bloom

Director of Specialized Instruction

cassidybloom@alleganps.org

Allegan Public Schools complies with all federal laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, political belief, disability, handicap, or any other legally protected characteristic - in all of its programs and in employment. Inquiries or complaints should be directed to the Superintendent, 550 Fifth St, Allegan, MI 49010 or by phone at (269) 673-5431.

Teacher - Special Education - Secondary