Learning Specialist - Autism Spectrum Disorder​/Social Communication; ACCESS

Learning Specialist – Autism Spectrum Disorder / Social Communication (ACCESS)

1.0 FTE for 191 days/year. Lake Oswego High School.

Position screens and assesses students for eligibility, services and placement in special education programs (K‑12). Provides instructional activities and lessons to elementary students with Autism Spectrum Disorder/Social Communication, aligning with state standards, district curricula, lesson objectives, student academic goals, and existing behavior plans, 504 plans, and IEPs. Develops specific instruction and support in classroom, resource room or other settings. Provides guidance techniques and resources for regular classroom teachers.

Administers classroom, district, and state assessments.

• Screens and assesses students for eligibility, services and placement in special education programs.
• Designs and prepares individual behavioral support plans; writes IEPs for specific students with the IEP team.
• Designs and implements developmentally appropriate instructional activities and lessons reflecting state standards, district curricula, lesson objectives and student achievement goals; monitors effectiveness and modifies pace and content as needed.
• Plans and implements highly structured learning environments.
• Schedules students for specially designed instruction.
• Communicates with students during instruction using language, tone and body language that promotes problem solving and effective management of power struggles; applies proactive strategies for managing escalating inappropriate, disruptive or harmful behavior.
• Adapts instructional activities and lessons for students with varying cultural and social backgrounds, 504 plans, behavior plans and IEPs.
• Creates, maintains and consistently updates records for special needs students as required by federal and state laws, regulations and administrative rules.
• Obtains special or additional training to stay updated on best practices for special needs students.
• Meets with regular classroom teachers and assistants as needed or requested.
• Reviews classroom health and safety protocols to protect students, staff and equipment.
• Schedules and participates in regular team meetings, eligibility meetings and IEP/MDT meetings.
• Administers medications within the scope of federal and state laws, regulations, administrative rules and district policies.
• Assists classroom teachers and other school personnel with creating and implementing positive behavior support and instructional methodologies for students with reduced tolerance to regular classroom stimuli.
• Presents lessons and activities, individually and in groups, using sensory‑sensitive methods and kinetic activities.
• Prepares, administers and grades various formal and informal student assessment tools, assignments and activities; analyzes results and adjusts learning activities and lesson plans as necessary; collects, records and maintains required data including attendance and student grades; prepares report cards and progress reports.
• Uses oral, written and electronic communications to inform students and parents/guardians about behavior and progress toward classroom and district objectives; schedules parent conferences as needed.
• Establishes and maintains classroom rules and standards of student behavior for a safe and productive learning environment; works with principal, staff and parents/guardians on individual student behavior and discipline issues.
• Trains, assigns activities to and monitors education paraprofessionals (IAs, EAs) regarding classroom academic and behavior goals, daily activities and specific record‑keeping requirements; adjusts delegated tasks as necessary.
• Observes, evaluates and refers students who need additional services and support.
• Works in professional collaborative groups with other teachers on implementing effective content instruction and assessment.
• Communicates regularly with students and parents/guardians about academic performance.
• Demonstrates knowledge and skill in conflict management and dispute resolution techniques.
• Maintains consistent, daily and punctual attendance.

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