Crooked Oak Public Schools

Elementary Special Education Teacher – Severe and Profound Disabilities

Job Description: Crooked Oak Public Schools is seeking a dedicated, skilled, and compassionate Elementary Special Education Teacher to provide specialized instruction, direct care, and comprehensive support to elementary students with severe and profound disabilities. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with general education teachers, parents, therapists, medical staff, and support personnel to develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), functional life skills, and communication strategies to ensure the safety, dignity, and personal growth of each student.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to complex cognitive, physical, sensory, and communication needs in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Provide direct special education services in self-contained and inclusive settings, utilizing functional academics, sensory integration, and life-skills instructional models.
• Collaborate effectively with general education teachers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, and school nurses to adapt instruction and physical environments.
• Conduct functional assessments to evaluate communication abilities, mobility, sensory requirements, daily living skills, and areas for growth.
• Integrate Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems, adaptive technologies, and assistive equipment into daily activities.
• Manage and assist with physical care routines, including feeding, personal hygiene, toileting, positioning, and mobility support.
• Maintain accurate student records, progress reports, health and safety logs, and IEP documentation.
• Communicate regularly and compassionately with parents and guardians regarding student growth, personal milestones, and health needs.
• Lead and participate in multidisciplinary IEP meetings, medical care planning, and transition team conferences.
• Supervise, train, and provide clear guidance to paraprofessionals and instructional aides assisting with high-needs support.
• Implement positive behavior interventions, crisis management protocols, and safety strategies for students exhibiting severe behavioral challenges.
• Stay current with special education laws, adaptive technologies, and best practices for supporting severe, profound, and medically fragile populations.
• Contribute to a safe, supportive, and fully inclusive school culture for all students.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Special Education Director or Principal.

Qualifications:

• Valid Oklahoma teaching certification in Special Education with a Severe-Profound endorsement (appropriate for the elementary level).
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Special Education or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of special education laws, functional life skills curricula, and non-verbal communication systems.
• Proven experience developing and executing IEPs for students with severe, profound, or multiple disabilities.
• Practical understanding of adaptive equipment, AAC devices, sensory regulation, and safe physical handling techniques.
• Strong physical capability to lift, transfer, and assist students with significant physical disabilities as needed.
• Excellent communication, crisis resolution, and collaborative problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead a multidisciplinary team composed of paraprofessionals, therapists, and medical staff.
• A firm commitment to protecting the safety, dignity, and holistic development of students with complex needs.

Crooked Oak Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer.