Special Education Teacher: Communication, Access and Specialized Supports Classroom - Ocean Ave[...]

LEARN; Old Lyme (CT); On-site; USD 56,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Ocean Avenue LEARNing Academy in Old Lyme, CT seeks an exceptional special education teacher to support students with complex medical, developmental, and communication needs, building individualized instruction aligned to IEP goals.

You will collaborate with speech-language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, nurses, and families to design inclusive learning experiences that promote communication, independence, and academic growth.

Qualifications

• Connecticut Certification (065/165) or eligible for certification.
• Experience with students with significant disabilities and complex communication needs.
• Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of evidence-based instructional practices and PBIS or positive behavior support.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver highly individualized instruction aligned to IEP goals and state standards.
• Use data to monitor progress and adapt instruction.
• Collaborate with related service providers and nursing staff to support medically complex students.
• Utilize AAC and assistive technology to maximize communication and participation.
• Foster inclusive, safe classrooms that promote belonging.
• Partner with families and district teams to implement comprehensive supports.

Skills

IEP Development

Collaboration

Data-driven Instruction

AAC & Assistive Tech

Education

Connecticut Special Education Certification (065/165)

Tools

AAC Systems

Job description

Join Our Team: Special Education Teacher: Communication, Access and Specialized Supports Classroom

Ocean Avenue LEARNing Academy

Where innovation meets compassion, and every student's potential drives our purpose.

At Ocean Avenue LEARNing Academy, we believe that every student deserves a learning environment that recognizes their strengths, honors their dignity, and provides the individualized support needed to thrive. We serve students across grade levels with complex medical, developmental, communication, behavioral, and learning needs, creating opportunities for growth that extend far beyond the classroom.

We are seeking an exceptional special education teacher who is curious, creative, and deeply committed to helping students achieve meaningful outcomes. If you are energized by collaboration, inspired by innovation, and passionate about unlocking possibilities for students with the most significant support needs, we'd love to meet you.

Why Ocean Avenue LEARNing Academy?

Transform Lives Every Day

This is more than teaching. It is the opportunity to help students develop communication, independence, self-advocacy, social connection, and skills that improve their quality of life. Every breakthrough matters, and every student has a story worth investing in.

Practice at the Highest Level

• Deliver explicit, individualized instruction aligned to student strengths and needs.
• Use data to drive decision-making and accelerate progress.
• Implement positive, proactive supports that foster regulation, engagement, and belonging.
• Design inclusive learning experiences that maximize student voice and participation.
• Utilize assistive technology and AAC systems to ensure every student can communicate and connect.

Work Alongside Exceptional Professionals

• Special education coaches
• Speech-Language Pathologists
• Occupational Therapists
• Physical Therapists
• Board Certified Behavior Analysts
• School Psychologists
• Social Workers
• Nurses
• Assistive Technology Specialists
• Intervention Specialists
• Medical Assistants

Together, we solve complex challenges, celebrate successes, and create meaningful outcomes for students and families.

Be Part of a Culture of Innovation

We believe that students with the most complex needs deserve the most innovative thinking.

Our Staff Are Encouraged To

• Explore new approaches and creative problem-solving.
• Leverage technology to increase access and independence.
• Participate in ongoing professional learning and coaching.
• Challenge traditional assumptions about what students can achieve.
• Build instructional environments that are flexible, responsive, and future-focused.

Compassion Is Our Foundation

At Ocean Avenue LEARNing Academy, relationships come first. We understand that every behavior communicates a need, every family has a story, and every student deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.

Our Work Is Grounded In

• Trauma-informed practices
• Respect for neurodiversity
• Student dignity and self-determination
• Family partnership
• A belief that all students can learn and grow

What You'll Do

• Design and deliver highly individualized instruction aligned to IEP goals and state standards.
• Create engaging, meaningful learning experiences that support academic, communication, social-emotional, functional, and life skills development.
• Partner with related service providers and nursing staff to support students with complex medical, physical, sensory, and communication needs.
• Utilize evidence-based practices, assistive technology, and AAC systems to increase student engagement and independence.
• Analyze student performance data and adapt instruction to maximize progress.
• Foster safe, welcoming classroom communities where every student experiences belonging and success.
• Collaborate with families, caregivers, and district teams to develop and implement comprehensive student support plans.
• Help students build the skills and confidence needed to navigate school, community, and life with greater independence.

Who You Are

• A passionate educator who believes every student can achieve meaningful growth.
• An innovative thinker who embraces collaboration and creative problem-solving.
• A reflective practitioner committed to continuous learning and improvement.
• An advocate for student dignity, accessibility, and belonging.
• A team player who values partnership and shared success.

Qualifications

• Connecticut Special Education Certification (065, 165, or appropriate endorsement) or eligibility for certification.
• Experience working with students with significant disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, complex communication needs, multiple disabilities, and/or medically complex profiles preferred.
• Strong collaboration, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of evidence-based instructional practices, AAC, assistive technology, and positive behavior support approaches preferred.

Make an Impact That Matters

At Ocean Avenue LEARNing Academy, we don't define students by their challenges. We focus on their strengths, possibilities, and potential. If you are looking for a career where innovation, compassion, and purpose come together to create life-changing outcomes, we invite you to join our team.

Help us build a future where every student is empowered to communicate, connect, learn, and thrive.

LEARN Regional Educational Service Center is an equal opportunity employer (EOE).