Position Details
Title: Special Education Academic Coach
Classification: Non-Union Professional – Grade 7
Reports to and
Evaluated By: Supervisor of Specially Designed Instruction
Terms of
Employment: 200 Days
Positions
Supervised: None
Benefits: Excellent benefit package includes medical, dental, vision insurance; sick and personal days; Michigan School Employment retirement program
POSITION SUMMARY
The Special Education Academic Coach plays a key leadership role in supporting instructional excellence across Kent ISD’s KEC Center Programs for students in grades K-12. This position focuses on elevating academic outcomes for students with complex needs through curriculum development, lesson design, instructional modeling, and data-driven coaching. This position supports the development and implementation of high-quality instruction aligned to the Kent ISD High-Quality Program Guide. Key responsibilities include collaborating on curriculum frameworks for KEC programs, designing model lesson plans that promote engagement and independence, and supporting the development of meaningful supplementary aids and services that ensure access to curriculum and inclusion in each student’s educational pathway. The Academic Coach models high-impact instruction using a gradual release approach, supports progress monitoring, and helps educators use data to inform and adapt teaching practices. The coach serves as a mentor, thought partner, and advocate for evidence-based, equitable, and engaging education. This is a meaningful opportunity to shape the instructional landscape and inspire adult learning that directly impacts student success.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Collaborate with program staff to develop high-quality instructional materials and resources aligned to alternate standards and essential elements
2. Design and share model lesson plans that promote access, engagement, and progress across diverse learning profiles
3. Provide classroom-based coaching using a gradual release model (e.g., modeling, co-teaching, observation with feedback)
4. Support teams in embedding meaningful supplementary aids and services into instruction and IEP development
5. Facilitate data collection and progress monitoring to inform instructional adjustments and goal setting
6. Guide teachers in designing instruction that reflects principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), specially designed instruction (SDI), and trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming practices
7. Promote practices that ensure access to the general curriculum and support a pathway back to students’ local districts
8. Coordinate and deliver professional development that fosters teacher growth, confidence, and collaboration
9. Collaborate with school and ISD leadership to identify instructional priorities and respond to program needs
10. Support fidelity of implementation through aligned observation tools, reflection protocols, and coaching conversations
11. Assist with assessment practices and data interpretation to guide instructional planning
12. Participate in building and district meetings, instructional rounds, and collaborative learning opportunities
13. Serve as a bridge between instructional design, data-informed decisions, and day-to-day classroom practices
14. Other duties as assigned
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED
15. Valid Michigan professional certification in an area related to Special Education is required
16. Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, Special Education, or related field
17. Minimum of three years of successful experience in education, including work with behavioral and academic supports
18. Demonstrated experience developing and delivering effective, differentiated lesson plans for students with complex learning needs
19. Exceptional organizational, verbal, and written communication skills for effective collaboration with peers, administrators, constituent districts, and community stakeholders
20. Strong knowledge of special education law, rules, and compliance (IDEA, MARSE)
21. Commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice in educational practice
22. Experience with functional behavior assessments (FBA), positive behavior support plans (PBSP), and implementing these supports with fidelity
23. Trained in Non-Violent Crisis Intervention or similar de-escalation protocol
24. Familiarity with Universal Design for Learning (UDL), high-leverage practices (HLPs), and restorative or trauma-informed approaches
25. Ability to analyze and use student data to inform instructional coaching and improve student outcomes
26. Demonstrated ability to support adult learners through coaching, modeling, and professional development
27. Proficient in using digital tools for data collection, instructional design, and coaching communication
28. Willingness to travel between sites as needed
The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.
Benefits: Robust benefit package includes full medical, dental, and vision insurance; generous paid sick and personal days; State of Michigan School Employment retirement program; Kent ISD is a participating employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness program (PSLF/ SAVE plan) for eligible Federal student loans.
Please note, due to the large number of applications, we are unable to attend to e-mail or telephone inquiries on application status.
The final candidate for this position will be required (at their cost) to furnish Kent Intermediate School District with a current Michigan State Police and FBI criminal records LiveScan check prior to our recommendation to hire.
The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Alternative requirements that may be appropriate and acceptable to the School Board may be considered. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex (including gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, or a related condition), age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, military service, veteran status, genetic information, disability, or any other legally protected basis, and prohibits unlawful discrimination, including harassment and retaliation, in any education program or activity that it operates, including in admission and employment. The Coordinator for Title IX, Section 504, the Age Discrimination Act and Title II is: Dave Rodgers, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources.