Special Education Teacher (Resource Room) – Middle School
Okemos Public Schools | Okemos, Michigan

• Chippewa Middle School

  Position Type: Full-Time
  Start Date: 2026-2027 School Year
  Salary/Benefits: Per OEA Master Agreement

Summary

Okemos Public Schools is seeking passionate, student-centered educators to serve as a Secondary Special Education Teacher (Resource Room) at Chippewa Middle School. This position provides the opportunity to support students with diverse learning needs in inclusive, academically rigorous, and relationship-centered school environments focused on helping all learners achieve success.

The ideal candidate will foster supportive and engaging learning environments where students are empowered to build academic skills, self-advocacy, independence, confidence, and meaningful connections within the school community. Educators in these roles will provide specialized instruction, collaborate closely with general education staff and families, and ensure students receive individualized supports aligned with their educational goals and legal requirements.

These roles are ideal for educators who value collaboration, inclusion, relationship-building, and student growth. Successful candidates will contribute positively to a strong team culture and demonstrate a commitment to equitable access and outcomes for all students.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction & Student Learning

• Provide specialized instruction and academic support aligned with students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Develop and implement instructional strategies that support student achievement, independence, and skill development across academic areas.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse academic, social, emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs of students.
• Monitor student progress toward IEP goals and utilize data to guide instructional decision-making.
• Support students in developing executive functioning, self-advocacy, organization, and self-regulation skills.
• Foster a positive, structured, and inclusive learning environment that promotes student engagement and success.
• Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusive instructional practices and accommodations within the classroom setting.

Special Education Compliance & Case Management

• Serve as a case manager for students receiving special education services.
• Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs in compliance with federal, state, and district requirements.
• Coordinate and facilitate IEP meetings and communicate effectively with families and multidisciplinary teams.
• Maintain accurate documentation, progress monitoring data, and required compliance records.
• Collaborate with related service providers, interventionists, counselors, psychologists, and administrators to support student success.

Culture, Climate & Student Support

• Build positive, respectful relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Establish and maintain a safe, inclusive, and equitable learning environment.
• Promote positive student behavior through restorative and relationship-centered practices.
• Support students’ social-emotional growth and overall well-being.
• Encourage student self-advocacy, independence, and transition readiness.

Collaboration & Professional Responsibilities

• Collaborate regularly with grade-level teams, content-area teachers, and support staff to enhance student learning and access to curriculum.
• Participate actively in professional learning communities, staff meetings, and district initiatives.
• Communicate effectively and consistently with families regarding student progress and support strategies.
• Maintain accurate student records, assessment data, and instructional documentation.
• Demonstrate continuous professional growth and reflective instructional practice.
• Support school and district initiatives aligned with the Strategic Plan and Equity Plan.

Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications

Education, Certification & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or related field required.
• Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate required.
• Any valid Michigan Special Education endorsement required.
• Successful middle school and/or high school teaching experience preferred.
• Experience supporting students with diverse learning needs in inclusive settings preferred.
• Experience with IEP development, progress monitoring, and special education compliance preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of special education instructional practices, intervention strategies, and differentiated instruction.
• Knowledge of IDEA, MARSE, IEP development, and special education compliance requirements.
• Ability to create engaging, inclusive, and academically rigorous learning environments.
• Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, students, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to integrate technology effectively to support teaching and learning.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices.

About Okemos Public Schools

Located in the greater Lansing area and neighboring Michigan State University, Okemos Public Schools is one of Michigan’s premier school districts. Serving over 4,500 students, the district is consistently recognized for academic excellence, innovative programming, and a strong commitment to student success.

Okemos is known for its highly qualified staff, engaged families, and diverse, globally minded community. The district’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and continuous improvement creates an exceptional environment for both students and educators.

The surrounding community offers access to a vibrant college-town atmosphere, cultural opportunities, outdoor recreation, and an outstanding quality of life.

Pursuant to Public Act 68 of 1993 and Public Act 83 of 1995, selected new employees shall submit to fingerprints and a criminal background check at the employee’s expense.

It is the policy of the Board of Education that the District will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, military service, veteran status, genetic information, disability, or any other legally protected basis. The District shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination.

Traditionally marginalized candidates are encouraged to apply.

Inquiries or complaints by applicants or employees related to discrimination should be directed to:

Director of Human Resources
Okemos Public Schools
4406 N Okemos Rd
Okemos, MI 48864
Phone: 517-706-5006