Middle School ASD Teacher

Kenowa Hills Public Schools•Grand Rapids, MI

About The Position

This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students with diverse learning needs while working alongside a dedicated and collaborative team.

Requirements

Must hold a valid Michigan teaching certificate with appropriate endorsement for the assignment (SV – Autism Spectrum Disorder), in accordance with Michigan Department of Education requirements.
Strong knowledge of behavior intervention strategies, including de-escalation and positive behavior supports
Experience developing and implementing IEPs, goals, and progress monitoring systems
Ability to adapt instruction to meet diverse cognitive, behavioral, and social-emotional needs
Commitment to inclusive practices and supporting students across settings
Demonstrated cultural competence and ability to work effectively with diverse student populations
Strong communication skills with students, families, staff, and outside agencies
Trained in or mandatory commitment to future training in CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) and/or Ukeru crisis management systems
Knowledge of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and trauma-informed practices
Familiarity with structured literacy practices; LETRS training preferred; willingness to complete LETRS training required.
Experience using district curriculum and assessment tools to support diverse learners
Ability to collect and analyze behavioral and academic data to inform instruction
Ability to stand, walk, sit, bend, kneel, crouch, and move throughout the classroom and building for extended periods
Ability to lift, move, or assist students (up to 50 pounds) as needed for safety or instructional support
Ability to respond quickly in situations requiring physical intervention or student support
Ability to work in an environment that may include frequent movement, elevated noise levels, and unpredictable student behaviors
Ability to remain calm, professional, and responsive in situations involving student dysregulation, including exposure to inappropriate language or behaviors
Ability to physically support students in crisis situations, including implementing approved safety interventions
Ability to work in environments with frequent movement, high sensory stimulation, and unpredictable behaviors
Ability to remain calm and responsive under stress , including exposure to verbal outbursts or aggressive behaviors

Nice To Haves

Experience working with secondary students with ASD and/or behavioral needs preferred
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team
Experience with or commitment to implementing Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) practices
LETRS training preferred

Responsibilities

Provide specialized instruction to students with ASD across inclusive settings, aligned to IEP goals
Serve as IEP case manager, ensuring compliance with all state and federal requirements
Develop and implement behavior intervention plans, including proactive and responsive strategies
Utilize evidence-based de-escalation and crisis response techniques (e.g., CPI, Ukeru) to support student safety
Respond to student dysregulation, which may include verbal escalation, refusal, elopement, or physical behaviors
Maintain a structured, predictable, and supportive environment that promotes regulation and learning
Support students in developing social-emotional, communication, and executive functioning skills
Collaborate closely with paraprofessionals, including modeling strategies and providing direction
Partner with general education teachers to implement accommodations, modifications, and inclusive practices
Participate in IEPCs, evaluations, and transition planning
Communicate regularly with families, KISD and outside agencies
Maintain accurate documentation of student progress, behavior data, Medicaid, and services
Engage in ongoing professional learning aligned with district initiatives