Special Education Teacher - Michigan Connections Academy

Company Summary

Michigan Connections Academy (MICA) is a tuition-free, online public school serving students in grades K–12 throughout Michigan. MICA is authorized by Ferris State University Charter Schools Office and governed by an independent Board of Directors. The school is operated by Michigan Connections Academy, a nonprofit corporation, through a contract with CA of Michigan, LLC, to provide its educational program and other services. Connections Academy, a division of Connections Education, is accredited by AdvancED.

Position Summary and Responsibilities

The Special Education Teacher will virtually manage instructional programs for students with special needs. Through use of the telephone, Internet and various curriculum tools they will consult regularly with learning coaches and students to ensure that each child successfully completes his/her instructional program. The Special Education Teacher will participate in all steps of the IEP process.  They will work closely with other teachers and district professionals to ensure that the school’s special education program is successful and operates in compliance with federal and state regulations.  The Special Education Teacher will utilize technology to deliver virtual instruction.  The Special Education Teacher will be responsible for the successful completion of the following tasks:

• Manage and provide instructional guidance, virtual teaching and general strategies for a caseload of students;


• Develop, write and help implement IEPs and 504 plans;


• Evaluate tests and assessments, complete report cards and conduct parent conferences;


• Communicate regularly with parents/learning coaches of students with special needs to ensure that their IEP goals are being met, and that their needs are addressed in a timely and appropriate fashion;


• Consult with teachers and coordinate the implementation of specially designed instruction as defined in the IEP regarding students with specific needs and potential learning issues;


• Provide direct services to students including services delivered through web-conferencing software, as needed;  


• Schedule, organize and conduct IEP related meetings in a virtual environment, as needed;


• Participate in the school’s Student Support Team; help teachers and learning coaches develop and implement program modifications and strategies for all students;


• Assist, as needed, with the organization and proper implementation of all paperwork, documentation and procedures for the IEP process;


• Assist with locating service providers for students needing related services as mandated by their IEPs;


• Assist with negotiating and executing contracts with service providers for students requiring such services;


• Maintain accurate and up-to-date data in the school’s Learning Management System and special education software;


• Assist with administering state testing and coordinate the special adaptations that are required based on the IEP; and


• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education or related Education Field


• Michigan residency required 


• Valid Michigan Teaching Certification with full approval or endorsement in at least one area of special education from Michigan Department of Education, Office of Special Education (MDE, OSE)


• Must meet all continuing education requirements as defined by MDE


• Expertise in special education law and compliance


• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written


• Customer focused approach


• High degree of flexibility


• Demonstrated ability to work well in fast paced environment


• Technologically proficient (especially with Microsoft Office products)


• Travel and attendance at in-person events, including State Testing is required throughout the school year, as determined by the school. This may require overnight travel


• Ability to work some occasional evening hours, as needed to support some families