Teaching and Learning Consultant, Special Education

Job Title: Teaching and Learning Consultant, Special Education

Location: Teacher Administrative Center (TAC), 3215 Cuming St. Omaha, NE 68131

Reports To: Executive Director of Special Education

Work Schedule/FLSA Status: 12-month / Full Time - Exempt

Salary Schedule: Omaha School Administrators Association (OSAA), Level 6 / Salary credit may be awarded for applicable experience. Placement on the salary schedule will follow the applicable agreement.

Position Purpose: The special education teaching and learning consultant shares responsibility for the effective planning and implementation of special education programs including Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program (D/HoH), Visually Impaired Resource Program (VI), Alternate Curriculum Program (ACP), Special Instruction (SI), and services for students with disabilities at both the elementary and secondary levels. The individual will assist in the planning and presenting of professional development supporting the use of best instructional practices in teaching.

This individual supports district initiatives in the curriculum areas of mathematics, science, social studies, and English/language arts in grades K-12 including the alternate curriculum and alternate assessments for students in ACP. The TLC also supports inclusive practices in the district by working with parents, principals, special education teachers, sign language interpreters, and other building staff team members. Technical assistance is also provided to staff in meeting the federal and state regulations governing the provision of special education services.

Essential Performance Responsibilities

• Shares responsibility for the effective planning and implementation of special education programs (including ACP, D/HoH, VI, and Special Instruction) and services for students with disabilities at both the elementary and secondary levels.
• Assists in the planning and presenting of professional development supporting the use of best instructional practices in teaching all students with disabilities.
• Plans and coordinates the professional development day(s) identified for the sign language interpreters.
• Coordinates contracted services for the D/HoH program.
• Collaborates with community and Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) stakeholders to support the D/HoH program and VI services.
• Coordinates with district initiatives in the curriculum areas of mathematics, science, social studies, and English/language arts is required to support instruction and assessment in grades K-12 including the alternate curriculum and alternate assessments for students in ACP.
• Maintains effective communication with building administration, staff, and families to provide supports and resources.
• Supports buildings with managing tough student behaviors, goal setting, and program recommendations.
• Conducts District-wide staff observations and coaching visits.
• Demonstrates knowledge of best research-based instructional practices & specially designed instruction.
• Demonstrates knowledge regarding students with disabilities learning to read.
• Models best practices in providing in-person and online professional development to special education teachers and leaders.
• Knowledge and understanding of Special Education Rule 51 and standards and regulations.
• Ensures compliance with all special education regulations for IEPs and Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDT).
• Attends IEP and MDT meetings as needed.
• Collaborates with district Curriculum and Instruction Support teams to ensure all classrooms are inclusive in their practices.
• Supports Inclusive Practices in the district by working with parents, principals, general and special education teachers, and other building staff.
• Provides expertise in the use of assessments and feedback.
• Provides additional support to all new teachers in special education.
• Administers OPS staff appraisal process with approval from Special Education Executive Director.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops, or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
• Works with an understanding of a diverse student population and equity.
• Shows evidence of the willingness and the ability to comply with the standards for ethical and professional performance established by district policy as well as the State Board of Education.
• Demonstrates a commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the OPS district.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Master's Degree with appropriate course work in Administration, Supervision and special education required.
• A valid Nebraska Teaching Certificate (or the ability to obtain) with endorsements in administration and supervision required and Special Education endorsement required.
• A minimum of five years successful teaching experience in Special Education required.
• Knowledge of Special Education and related services for students with verified disabilities including D/HoH and VI.
• Ability to be flexible and shift priorities as needed.
• Ability to obtain…