About this role
Adapted PE Teacher Job Identification
• Job Title: Adapted PE Teacher
• School: Ottawa Area Center
• Reports To: Director of Ottawa Area Center
• Employment Type: Full time, Full calendar year
• FLSA Status: Exempt
• Union Status: OAEA
Position Summary: The Adapted Physical Education Teacher provides specialized physical education instruction to students ages 3–26 with complex cognitive, physical, medical, sensory, communication, and behavioral needs in a center-based school setting. Working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, the Adapted Physical Education Teacher designs and implements individualized, developmentally appropriate physical education experiences that promote motor development, physical fitness, recreation and leisure skills, social interaction, independence, and lifelong participation in physical activity. The teacher fosters a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment that supports each student's unique strengths and needs. Essential Job Functions:
• Adapt activities, equipment, environments, and instructional methods to ensure meaningful participation and access for students with diverse learning, sensory, physical, and medical needs.
• Promote the development of gross motor skills, physical fitness, movement concepts, recreational skills, cooperation, self-advocacy, and independence.
• Implement positive behavior supports and utilize evidence-based strategies to maximize student engagement, safety, and success during instruction.
• Ensure the safe use, maintenance, and organization of adapted equipment and instructional materials.
• Applies adapted physical education theory and practice by integrating current knowledge of Adapted PE principles and standards, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and inclusive curriculum design to promote communication, engagement, and meaningful participation for students with diverse needs.
• Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to implement the MOVE (Mobility Opportunities Via Education) Program; integrating functional movement opportunities throughout the school day to maximize student independence, access, and engagement.
• Monitor student health, safety, and medical considerations during physical activities and collaborate with nursing and support staff to implement appropriate precautions and procedures.
• Develops and manages an instructional schedule that maximizes student access to quality adapted PE programming
• Evaluates program needs and works collaboratively with administration to order appropriate equipment and materials.
• Participate in professional learning opportunities and contribute to building initiatives that promote continuous improvement and student success.
• Directs and supports paraprofessionals by providing clear guidance and ensuring consistent implementation of student programs and school policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned that support the mission and operations of the program.
Education & Experience:
• Valid Michigan teaching certificate with SA (Cognitive Impairment) endorsement required.
• SP endorsement (Physical Education for Students with Disabilities) highly preferred or willingness to obtain upon hire.
• Candidates can also possess a national CAPE certification, which qualifies them to provide services in Michigan as a related service provider in lieu of the SP endorsement:https://www.ncpeid.org/apens
• Credentials must meet Michigan special education requirements.
• Experience teaching students with autism is preferred.
• Experience working with students with challenging behaviors preferred.
• Experience working with significant mobility and medical needs preferred.
• Red Cross Lifeguard certification or equivalent from an accepted and certifying body required.
• CPR for the Professional Rescuer Certification required.
• CPR/First Aid Certification required.
Required Skills & Abilities:
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks with attention to accuracy
• Creative problem-solving skills
• Patience, empathy, and flexibility
• Ability to work independently and apply critical thinking
• Willingness to accept and apply feedback
Physical & Environmental Requirements:
• Ability to lift and move students (up to 50 pounds with or without assistance/mechanical lift as required).
• Frequent bending, reaching, pushing wheelchairs, and positioning students.
• Ability to assist with toileting, feeding, and personal care routines.
• Capable of standing and actively engaging with students throughout the school day.
• Ability to intervene with student behaviors to ensure student and staff safety.
Compensation & Employment Details:
• Pay: Starting Per OAEA Master Agreement
• Schedule: Full-time, Full Year Balanced Calendar, 190 days per year
• Employee Group: Union Salary
• Benefits: Full benefits package, including health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. MPSERS provided retirement plan.
• FLSA: Exempt
Notices: Job Description Changes: Job descriptions may be subject to change based on the OAISD's needs. This is meant to describe a basic overview of qualifications, role, and duties. It is not an exhaustive or fully comprehensive list as other duties may be assigned. Ottawa Area Intermediate School District (OAISD) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, genetic information, or any other legally protected category (collectively "Protected Classes"), in its programs and activities, including employment. Civil Rights Coordinators are located at OAISD, 13663 Port Sheldon St. Holland, MI 49424 to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and grievance procedures. Telephone (616) 738-8940 Ext: 4091.