What are the responsibilities and job description for the SCI Special Education Center Based Teacher: Post-Secondary position at Ottawa Area Center?
Special Education Center Based Teacher- SCI
Job Summary:
The Special Education Teacher provides instruction and support to post-secondary–aged students with severe cognitive impairments and autism. This position focuses on highly individualized instruction, development of whole-child educational plans, and promotion of independence and post-secondary outcomes. The teacher works collaboratively with families, community partners, and a multidisciplinary team to support student growth and transition goals.
Essential Job Functions:
- Design and implement individualized instructional programs aligned with IEPs and post-secondary transition goals
- Provide strategic, differentiated instruction to meet diverse cognitive, behavioral, and functional needs
- Develop and monitor personalized, whole-child plans to promote skill acquisition and independence
- Adapt instructional strategies to meet changing student needs year to year
- Support students within the SCI/AI continuum, including those with challenging behaviors
- Collaborate with related service providers, families, and community supports
- Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with Michigan special education requirements
- Model professionalism and effective communication with students, families, staff, and community partners
- Participate in team meetings, training, and professional development
- Other duties as assigned
Education and Experience:
- Valid Michigan teaching certificate with SA (Cognitive Impairment) endorsement
- ASD endorsement preferred
- Credentials must meet Michigan special education requirements
- Experience teaching in the SCI/AI continuum
- Experience working with students with challenging behaviors
- CPR and CPI training preferred
Required Skills and Abilities:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Ability to manage multiple tasks with attention to accuracy
- Creative problem-solving skills
- Patience, empathy, and flexibility
- Ability to work independently and apply critical thinking
- Willingness to accept and apply feedback
- Regular and predictable attendance
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift and move students (up to 50 pounds with or without assistance/mechanical lift as required).
- Frequent bending, reaching, pushing wheelchairs, and positioning students.
- Ability to assist with toileting, feeding, and personal care routines.
- Capable of standing and actively engaging with students throughout the school day.
- Ability to intervene with student behaviors to ensure student and staff safety.
Compensation and Details:
- Pay: Starting Per OAEA Master Agreement
- Schedule: Full-time, Full Year Balanced Calendar, 190 days per year
- Employee Group: Union Salary
- Benefits: Full benefits package, including health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. MPSERS provided retirement plan.
- FLSA: Exempt
Notices:
Job Description Changes: Job descriptions may be subject to change based on the OAISD's needs. This is meant to describe a basic overview of qualifications, role, and duties. It is not an exhaustive or fully comprehensive list as other duties may be assigned.
Ottawa Area Intermediate School District (OAISD) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, genetic information, or any other legally protected category (collectively "Protected Classes"), in its programs and activities, including employment. Civil Rights Coordinators are located at OAISD, 13663 Port Sheldon St. Holland, MI 49424 to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and grievance procedures. Telephone (616) 738-8940 Ext: 4091.