Independent Skills Center (ISC) -Special Education Teacher (Elementary)

Coos Bay SD 9•Coos Bay, OR

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Coos Bay School District is seeking an experienced teacher for its Independent Skills Center (ISC). This full-time, represented position provides instruction and support to students with disabilities, focusing on academic readiness, adaptive skills, self-regulation, and functional life skills that promote independence. The teacher creates a structured, supportive, engaging classroom environment and delivers instruction aligned with individualized education plans (IEPs), through meaningful learning experiences as prescribed by the case manager. The role supports students’ social communication, self-care, academic abilities, community integration, problem-solving, and independence. It includes adapting instruction and interventions based on student progress, advocating for student needs and inclusive participation, and supporting the appropriate use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). The teacher may assist students with personal and physical care, including hygiene, toileting, and medically specific feeding protocols. The teacher collaborates with school staff, families, administrators, and educational assistants; participates in IEP meetings; maintains student progress records; and stays current with research and best practices. The position reports to the Director of Special Education and the Principal.

Requirements

Current Oregon Teaching License with a Special Education endorsement.
Strong ability to work as a team member.
Strong ability to direct assistants within the classroom.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Knowledge of instructional practices and effective classroom management strategies for students with disabilities.
Proficiency in implementing and adapting educational and behavioral interventions.
In-depth knowledge of data collection to inform instruction and planning.
Patience, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
Knowledge of neuroscience and its implications for learning and development for students with disabilities.
Knowledge of special education law and processes.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including regularly lifting or moving up to 10 pounds and occasionally up to 25 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Collaborative Problem Solving training.

Responsibilities

Scaffold instruction aligned with IEP goals and services.
Monitor and assess interventions, use data to guide decisions, and adjust strategies as needed.
Use research-based strategies and programs to support academic and functional growth.
Provide targeted small-group, one-on-one, and push-in instruction.
Build students’ social interaction, daily living, academic, community integration, and problem-solving skills to increase independence.
Establish consistent routines, clear visual cues, and a supportive classroom atmosphere.
Provide safe opportunities to practice skills and gradually increase students’ independence.
Use role-playing, peer interactions, and group activities to reinforce positive social behaviors.
Manage classroom behavior using positive reinforcement, individualized strategies, and clear expectations.
Support students in managing emotions, improving focus, and understanding social cues.
Advocate for students’ needs and appropriate resources, and promote an inclusive school environment.
Adapt AAC devices, apps, or communication boards to students’ cognitive, motor, and sensory needs; teach independent use and encourage self-advocacy.
Promote understanding and use of AAC within the school environment.
Assist students with personal and physical care as needed, including hygiene, toileting, and medically specific feeding protocols.
Collaborate with general education teachers, special education staff, and other school professionals.
Communicate regularly with parents and guardians about student progress, challenges, and strategies for supporting growth at home.
Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to discussions about student support.
Maintain accurate records of student progress, interventions, and outcomes.
Collaborate with building administrators to address systemic or classroom-specific special education issues.
Provide educational assistants with support and resources regarding IEP-related procedures and compliance.
Stay updated on current research, trends, and best practices in intervention strategies.
Perform other duties as assigned.