Independent Skills Center; ISC -Special Education Teacher

Starting Date: Immediately

One Compass, One Crew, One Mission

The Coos Bay School District is accepting applications for experienced teacher for our
Independent Skills Center (ISC)

This position begins with the  school year

Job Summary:

This is a full-time, represented position. The Independent Skills Center teacher is responsible for providing instruction and support to students with disabilities, focusing on the development of academic readiness, adaptive skills and self-regulation. This position provides instruction to students with disabilities, focusing on developing functional life skills that promote independence in everyday activities. The teacher will work with students to enhance their social communication, self-care, and academic skills, tailored to their individual needs.

This position requires creating a structured, supportive, and engaging classroom environment that fosters personal growth and prepares students for greater independence in their academic and personal lives. The teacher will be responsible for delivering instruction aligned to individualized education plans (IEPs) through meaningful learning experiences as prescribed by the case manager.

• Scaffold instruction aligned with IEP goals and services.
• Regularly monitor and assess the effectiveness of interventions, use data-driven decision-making to adjust strategies as needed.
• Utilize research-based strategies and programs to support students' growth across academic and functional areas.
• Deliver targeted small-group, one-on-one, push-in instruction to students as they build skills in a variety of areas.
• Support individualized student learning by building capacity in social interactions, functional daily living skills, academic abilities, community integration and problem-solving skills to build independence within the school setting.

• Establish a consistent routine, clear visual cues, and a supportive classroom atmosphere to minimize disruptive behaviors.
• Provide students with opportunities to practice skills in a safe, supportive environment, gradually increasing independence as students' abilities grow.
• Use role-playing, peer interactions, and group activities to reinforce positive social behaviors.
• Manage classroom behavior with positive reinforcement, individualized strategies, and clear expectations.
• Implement strategies to support students in managing emotions, improving focus, and understanding social cues.
• Use visual aids, consistent routines, and clear instructions to help students understand expectations and feel secure.

• Advocate for students' needs, ensuring they receive appropriate resources and support.
• Work to create an inclusive environment where students with disabilities can thrive both academically and socially.
• Increase student independence through effective use of augmentative and alternative communication.
• Tailor AAC devices, apps, or communication boards to match the student's unique cognitive, motor, and sensory needs.
• Help students develop a sense of independence by teaching them how to use their AAC system on their own. Encourage self-advocacy by helping them express their needs, wants, and preferences.
• Advocate for the use of AAC within the school environment and promote understanding of its importance for students with complex communication needs.
• Assist students in 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 to ensure the integration of independent skills education into the school community.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians to discuss student progress, challenges, and strategies for supporting student growth at home.
• Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to discussions on how to best support students in the school environment.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress, interventions, and outcomes for reporting purposes.
• Collaborate with building administrators to address systemic or classroom-specific issues related to special education.
• Provide support and resources to educational assistants as needed regarding IEP-related procedures and compliance.
• Stay updated on current research, trends, and best practices in intervention strategies.

Other duties as assigned.

• Current Oregon Teaching License with Special Education endorsement
• Strong ability to work as a team member
• Strong ability to direct assistants within the classroom
• Must possess 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
• High level…