Special Education Teacher: SCI Middle and High School

Special Education Center Based Teacher- SCI

Job Identification: 

• Job Title: Teacher
• School: Ottawa Area Center (OAC)
• Reports to: OAC Director 
• FLSA Status: Exempt
• Bargaining Unit: Ottawa Area Education Association 

Job Summary:

The Special Education Teacher in a center-based SCI program provides specialized instruction to middle/high school aged students in a highly structured, supportive environment. This position focuses on developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), coordinating with support staff and related service providers, and adapting curriculum to promote functional academics, communication, daily living skills, and social-emotional development. The teacher works collaboratively with the multi-disciplinary team to maximize student success, independence, and growth for each student.

Essential Job Functions:

• Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs in collaboration with parents, administrators, and multidisciplinary team members.
• Deliver individualized and small-group instruction using evidence-based strategies tailored to student needs.
• Adapt curriculum and materials to support functional academics, life skills, mobility, communication, and sensory regulation.
• Collect and analyze student data to drive instruction and monitor progress.
• Manage classroom behavior using positive behavior supports and proactive strategies.
• Supervise and collaborate with classroom paraprofessionals to ensure consistency in instructional and personal care routines.
• Support students with feeding, toileting, mobility, and personal care needs as required.
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress, goals, and daily updates.
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development aligned with center-based programming.
• Maintain accurate records and comply with all district, state, and federal regulations.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education or related field required.
• Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate with endorsement in Cognitive Impairment (SA)
• Experience working with students with severe multiple impairments preferred.
• CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) and CPR certification are preferred or willingness to complete.

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.