Intervention Specialist

Ohio Department of Education•Columbus, OH

44d•Onsite

About The Position

Intervention Specialists provide specialized instruction and support to students with diverse learning needs. They are dedicated to fostering an inclusive learning environment where all students can achieve their full potential. This role involves developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborating closely with general education teachers, parents or guardians, and support staff to ensure compliance with all state and federal special education regulations. They engage in continuous professional development, making positive contributions to school culture, and collaborate with colleagues, parents or guardians, administrators, and stakeholders to support student growth and well-being, while upholding the highest professional and ethical standards.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
Valid Ohio Intervention Specialist license (e.g., Moderate/Intensive, relevant K-12 licensure).
Successful completion of BCI/FBI background checks.
Satisfactory criminal background check in accordance with Ohio law.
Such alternatives to the above as deemed appropriate by the Superintendent.
Learn with curiosity.
Demonstrate kindness.
Embrace equity.
Ability to support the values of our strategic and equity plans.
Develop and sustain meaningful relationships with students, families, and staff.
Ability to confidently and tactfully assist people in the midst of stressful, difficult, and challenging situations.
Knowledge and belief that teaching is a growth-based endeavor, reflective in nature, with multiple approaches to teaching and learning.
Ability to interact positively and supportively with staff, students, families, and the community.
Respect the variability of cultures, including but not limited to socioeconomic status, religions, family types, etc.
Follow all safety guidelines under the Ohio Revised Code and the Ohio Administrative Code for public school employees, including but not limited to bloodborne pathogens, ethics, fraud, reporting child abuse and neglect, etc.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Supervisor, Superintendent's Designee, or Superintendent.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated knowledge of special education laws and procedures (IDEA, Ohio Operating Standards for Ohio's Schools Serving Children with Disabilities).
Proven ability to develop and implement effective IEPs.
Experience with instructional technology, data-driven instruction, and restorative practices.
Commitment to high standards of professional practice and continuous improvement.
Certified and experienced in crisis prevention, trauma-informed behavior management, and/or de-escalation intervention.
Strong skills in differentiated instruction, behavior management, and assessment.
Excellent communication, collaboration, organization, and interpersonal skills.
Commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable educational environment for all students.
Completion of Ohio law requirements, including those consistent with the science of reading and math instruction.
Familiarity with the Ohio Teacher Evaluation System (OTES) framework and a commitment to professional growth.

Responsibilities

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of students' diverse needs, various disabilities, and their impact on student learning and development across the K-12 continuum.
Conduct and interpret appropriate assessments to identify student strengths, needs, and establish appropriate educational goals.
Lead and participate in IEP meetings, ensuring all components of the IEP are compliant with state and federal regulations (IDEA).
Maintain accurate, complete, and confidential student records related to special education services.
Possess strong knowledge of the Ohio Learning Standards across grade levels and content areas to effectively adapt and modify curriculum.
Design and deliver specially designed instruction (SDI) tailored to individual student needs as outlined in their IEPs, utilizing evidence-based practices.
Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs, ensuring goals are measurable, ambitious, and aligned with student needs and state standards.
Collect, analyze, and interpret student progress data to inform instructional decisions, adjust interventions, and regularly report on IEP goal attainment.
Effectively communicate student progress to students, parents/guardians, and colleagues.
Collaborate with general education teachers to co-plan, co-teach, and/or differentiate instruction to ensure students with disabilities have access to and progress in the general education curriculum.
Develop and implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) when necessary, utilizing positive behavior supports and interventions.
Utilize a variety of instructional strategies, materials, and assistive technologies to meet the diverse learning needs of students from Kindergarten through 12th grade.
Utilize evidence-based strategies (including restorative practices) to build student independence, agency, and self-advocacy.
Establish and maintain a safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment that promotes high levels of engagement and achievement for all students.
Foster positive relationships with students, promoting their self-advocacy and independence.
Serve as an advocate for students with disabilities, ensuring their rights are protected and their needs are met.
Assist in coordinating and facilitating transitions for students across grade levels and post-secondary options.
Effectively collaborate and consult with general education teachers, administrators, school psychologists, counselors, related service providers (e.g., speech therapists, occupational therapists), and parents/guardians to ensure a coordinated approach to student support.
Communicate clearly and professionally with parents/guardians regarding their child's progress, IEP services, and educational rights.
Adhere strictly to the Licensure Code of Professional Conduct for Ohio Educators, demonstrating the highest standards of integrity, ethics, and professional behavior.
Actively participate in the Ohio Teacher Evaluation System (OTES) process, including goal setting, self-reflection, observations, and conferences, for continuous professional improvement.
Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in special education, instructional strategies, restorative practices, and legal mandates.