Job Title: Teaching and Learning Consultant, Special Education (10-month)

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

Reports To: Executive Director of Special Education

Work Schedule/FLSA Status: 10-month / Full Time - Exempt

Salary Schedule: Omaha School Administrators Association (OSAA), Level 4 / Salary credit may be awarded for applicable experience. Placement on the salary schedule will follow the applicable agreement.

Start Date: TBD, no later than August 1, 2027

Position Purpose:

The Special Education Teaching and Learning Consultant (TLC) shares responsibility for the effective planning and implementation of special education programs including Alternate Curriculum Program (ACP) and 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, 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 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.
• 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 research-based instructional practices & specially designed instruction.
• 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 is required with an emphasis in Administration and Supervision, special education or related field.
• A valid Nebraska Administrative Certificate (or the ability to obtain prior to starting in the position) with endorsement in administration and supervision is required.
• A valid Nebraska Teaching Certificate with a Special Education endorsement is required.
• Successful teaching experience in Special Education is required.
• Prefer a minimum of five years or more of teaching experience as a Special Education Teacher.
• Knowledge of Special Education and related services for students with verified disabilities.
• Ability to be flexible and shift priorities as needed.
• Ability to obtain and/or maintain De-escalation and Physical Intervention Certification.
• Knowledge of best instructional practices and specially designed instruction for students with disabilities.
• Knowledge of and ability to problem solve to support students who are not making progress in school (academic, behavior, social emotional).
• Must be comfortable addressing personal care needs of students such as changing and feeding as needed when supporting in the buildings.
• Exemplary organizational skills.
• Exemplary oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to plan and deliver high quality professional development.
• Ability to provide instructional coaching.
• Understanding of and ability to support the implementation of the District’s Strategic Plan.
• Ability to demonstrate skills pertinent to positive relationships and the ability to work effectively with instructional staff, students, parents, administrators, and the community.
• Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding special education and students.
• Displays a significant degree of professionalism and confidentiality.
• Possesses integrity and high standards of professional ethics.
• Knowledge of OPS’s mission, purpose, goals, and the role of every employee in achieving each of them.

Additional Duties:

Performs other related tasks as assigned by central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Equipment:

This position may require the ability to use technology including iPads, Apple TVs, and assistive technology as well as accessibility features, in addition to basic office equipment such as computers, copiers, and scanners. Must always comply with OPS’s guidelines for equipment use.

Travel:

Travel between OPS schools/programs and Central Office will be required.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards:

Must be able to respond rapidly in emergency situations. Must have organization, time management, communication, and interpersonal skills. Work in school building environments.

Interrelations:

Contact with personnel within the district and other stakeholders. Will be working under the direct supervision of the central office administration in order to complete day to day tasks. Will be working with a diverse population requiring the ability to handle all situations with tact and diplomacy. Must understand and respond appropriately to stakeholder needs and maintain a positive attitude with all. Expected to interact with all internal and external stakeholders in a friendly, professional manner and provide quick, responsive service.

Employee Punctuality and Appearance:

In order for schools to operate effectively, employees are expected to perform all assigned duties and work all scheduled hours during each designated workday, unless the employee has received approved leave. Any deviation from assigned hours must have prior approval from the employee’s supervisor or building administrator. All employees are required to report to work dressed in a manner that reflects a positive image of Omaha Public Schools and is appropriate for their position.

Terms of Employment:

This position is treated as a full-time exempt certified position. The terms of your employment will be governed by applicable state laws regulating employment or teaching in a Nebraska public school and Board of Education policies, as those laws and policies may change from time to time. If your position is represented by a collective bargaining representative, then your employment will also be governed by a negotiated agreement between OPS and that collective bargaining representative. Terms of employment are contingent upon: Verification of a valid Nebraska Teaching License or other required license. A background check which demonstrates background is acceptable for the position sought and working with or around students. Verification of U.S. Citizenship or legal authorization to work in the United States. Successful completion of a tuberculosis skin test (if required by federal law for your position). Execution and delivery to OPS of an Administrator Contract presented by OPS.

Omaha Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), marital status, sexual orientation, disability, age, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation or economic status in its programs, activities, employment, and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following individual has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Director for the Office of Equity and Diversity, 3215 Cuming Street, Omaha, NE 68131. (531-299-0307)

The Omaha Public School District is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process please contact the human resources department at 531-299-0240.