What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Instructional Coach (PK-12) position at Special Education?
Reports To: Director of Special Services / Director of Curriculum
Contract: 202 days
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Job Summary
A Special Education Instructional Coach is a reflective practitioner who models continuous improvement, equitable instructional practices, and deep knowledge of specialized supports for diverse learners. This role centers on strengthening teacher capacity in specially designed instruction (SDI), compliance-aligned instructional planning, data-driven decision-making, and inclusive practices across PK–12 settings. The coach collaborates with teachers, related service providers, and administrators to ensure high-quality instruction that accelerates growth for students with disabilities. This coach will model continuous improvement, lifelong learning, and goes above and beyond to ensure teacher and student success.
Essential Functions (Special Education–Focused)
Mentoring & Teacher Support
· Mentors and supports novice and veteran special education teachers in developing strong SDI practices, classroom management systems, and effective accommodations and modifications.
· Provides coaching on IEP-aligned instruction, progress monitoring, and evidence-based interventions.
· Assists teachers in improving their teaching effectiveness, including co-planning, co-teaching, and modeling lessons in both resource and inclusion settings.
· Builds strong, trust-based relationships with teachers and administrators to support collaborative problem-solving.
Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment
· Supports the review, alignment, and implementation of PK–12 curriculum with a focus on access for students with disabilities.
· Guides teachers in unpacking Oklahoma Academic Standards alongside IEP goals to ensure instructional coherence.
· Reviews lesson plans and instructional activities to strengthen alignment, accessibility, and student performance
· Assists teachers with planning and pacing of lessons, developing differentiated instruction, and selecting evidence-based practices tailored to student needs.
· Supports educators in using data—including benchmark data, progress monitoring, and diagnostic assessments—to improve instruction at all levels.
Professional Learning
· Designs and delivers professional development on topics such as SDI, behavior supports, inclusive practices, co-teaching models, assistive technology, and data-driven instruction.
· Develops staff members’ knowledge, skills, and dispositions through targeted PD aligned to district initiatives.
· Motivates adult learners and fosters a culture of reflective practice.
Coaching & Feedback
· Conducts informal, non-evaluative observations and provides actionable feedback that supports teacher growth and student success.
· Develops individualized coaching plans for teachers to ensure improvement in instructional practice and student outcomes.
· Contributes to systems and structures that strengthen special education instruction across the district.
Resource & Compliance Support
· Assists teachers with locating and implementing instructional materials, intervention tools, and assistive technology to support diverse learners.
· Supports teachers in maintaining compliance through high-quality instructional documentation, progress monitoring, and alignment to IEP goals.
· Aids teachers with creating, keeping, and maintaining appropriate IEP files.
· Collaborates with related service providers, behavior specialists, and general education coaches to ensure cohesive support for students.
· Writing IEPs and carrying files as needed
Qualifications
· Master’s degree from an accredited college/university.
· Minimum of ten years of successful teaching experience in special education
· Current Oklahoma teacher certification in mild/moderate disabilities and severe/profound PLUS a subject matter certification (e.g. early childhood, elementary education, specific subject).
· Demonstrated knowledge of IDEA, Oklahoma Academic Standards, and district special education procedures.
· Outstanding presentation, facilitation, and communication skills with adult learners.
· Strong organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines.
· Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
· Demonstrated commitment to professional learning, reflection, and equitable