Learning Specialist​/Special Education Teacher FTE

Learning Specialist/Special Education Teacher - 1.0 FTE

Starting Date: Aug 24, 2026

Full-time regular position commencing with the 2026/27 school year. The teacher will serve both May Street Elementary and Cascade Locks Elementary, and other locations as needed within the district. The role merges classroom instruction with case-management responsibilities to support students with special needs.

• Adapt lessons to implement the IEP goals and meet the special needs of students.
• Evaluate students’ abilities and performance (behavioral, motor, communication, academic, vocational, etc.) to determine eligibility under IDEA and Section 504, set goals, determine placement, and assess progress.
• Collaborate with school personnel, community agencies, and parents to develop and modify programs that maximize student outcomes.
• Develop and maintain Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for each student, ensuring compliance with IDEA and state regulations.
• Direct instructional assistants, volunteers, and student aides to deliver an effective program and address individual student needs.
• Instruct students with individualized special needs to develop academic, interpersonal, and daily living skills.
• Manage student behavior to ensure a safe and optimal learning environment.
• Maintain consistent attendance to meet district requirements.
• Convene, chair, and document the activities of MDT, IEP, and Placement Teams to provide a free, appropriate public education and maintain compliance.
• Create and maintain student special-education files in accordance with district direction.
• Prepare teaching materials and reports (grades, attendance, anecdotal records) to implement lesson plans and document progress.
• Report incidents (e.g., fights, suspected abuse) to maintain student safety and follow district policies.

• Administer medication, first aid, personal hygiene, or health-care requirements as needed.
• Assist other personnel to support completion of their work activities.
• Participate in meetings (parent conferences, in-service training, site meetings) to share information and meet credential requirements.
• Update job knowledge by participating in in-services and staff development offerings.
• Perform other related duties as directed.

Experience

Required:

• Experience working with elementary-age students with special needs in an MTSS/special-education setting.
• Experience and training with IEPs and behavior plans.

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

Required:

• Ability to motivate students, communicate with diverse backgrounds, direct support personnel, evaluate performance, and address student health-care needs.
• Knowledge of special-education disabilities, age-appropriate teaching methods, state curriculum framework, and inclusive practices.
• Physical abilities: stand and walk for prolonged periods, lift/carry, stoop/crouch, reach/handle, communicate verbally, and maintain visual acuity.
• Bilingual English/Spanish skills are preferred but not required.

Licenses

Required:

• Valid Oregon Teaching License with a Special Education endorsement.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable personal transportation.

Sampling/Background Check

Required:

• Drug screening for controlled substances.
• Post-offer physical abilities assessment.
• Nationwide criminal history verification (job-related convictions considered only).

HOOD RIVER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.