Reports to: Assistant Director of Special Education Location: West Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative (travel required across 5 member districts)
Qualifications:
Master's degree from accredited university preferred.
Valid Kansas teaching certificate with Low Incidence SPED Endorsement.
Experience teaching students with low incidence disabilities (autism, significant cognitive disabilities, deaf/hard of hearing, blind/visually impaired, deaf-blind, traumatic brain injury, or orthopedic impairments).
Demonstrated expertise in evidence-based practices for low incidence populations.
Working Days: 180 days per year, 8 hours per day.
Compensation: Based on cooperative salary schedule, depending on professional development and years of experience.
Start Date: August 17, 2026
Position Contact: Kyle Carlin, Special Education Director 785-623-2400, kcarlin@usd489.com
Primary Purpose:
Provide instructional coaching, technical assistance, and professional development to special education teachers, paraeducators, and general education staff working with students with low incidence disabilities across WCKSEC member districts.
Support the implementation of evidence-based practices and specially designed instruction to improve outcomes for students with complex learning needs.
Collaborate with district teams to build capacity for inclusive practices and specialized supports.
Special Knowledge/Skills:
Deep knowledge of low incidence disabilities and their educational implications
Expertise in evidence-based instructional strategies for students with autism, significant cognitive disabilities, sensory impairments, and other low incidence conditions
Knowledge of assistive technology, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and specialized equipment
Understanding of functional behavior assessment and positive behavior intervention strategies
Ability to design and deliver effective professional development for diverse audiences
Strong coaching skills including modeling, co-teaching, observation, and feedback protocols
Knowledge of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and inclusive practices
Understanding of transition planning and post-secondary outcomes for students with significant disabilities
Knowledge of statutory and regulatory requirements for students with disabilities
Excellent data analysis and interpretation skills
Exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Ability to build trust and collaborative relationships with educators and administrators
Experience:
Minimum 3-5 years teaching students with low incidence disabilities.
Experience with instructional coaching, mentoring, or professional development preferred.
Demonstrated success implementing specialized interventions and supports.
Major Responsibilities and Duties
Instructional Coaching and Support
Provide ongoing coaching to special education teachers working with students with low incidence disabilities through modeling, co-teaching, observation, and feedback cycles.
Support teachers in developing and implementing specialized lesson plans, accommodations, and modifications aligned to IEP goals.
Assist teachers in selecting and implementing appropriate evidence-based practices, curricula, and instructional materials.
Conduct classroom observations and provide constructive, data-based feedback to improve instructional practice.
Facilitate collaborative problem-solving with building teams to address student learning challenges.
Support implementation of assistive technology, AAC systems, and specialized equipment.
Professional Development
Design and deliver professional development on low incidence disabilities, specialized instructional strategies, and inclusive practices.
Develop training materials, resources, and tools to support staff implementation of best practices.
Coordinate and facilitate professional learning communities (PLCs) focused on low incidence populations.
Provide targeted training for paraeducators working with students with complex needs.
Stay current on research and evidence-based practices through ongoing professional learning.
Technical Assistance and Program Support
Serve as a content expert and resource for IEP teams developing programming for students with low incidence disabilities.
Assist with evaluation and assessment processes for students with complex learning profiles.
Collaborate with related service providers to ensure integrated service delivery.
Support development of positive behavior intervention plans and crisis management protocols.
Assist with transition planning and community-based instruction programs.
Provide consultation on accessibility, environmental modifications, and inclusive classroom design.
Collaboration and Communication
Build collaborative relationships with teachers, administrators, paraeducators, families, and community partners across member districts.
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and case consultations.
Communicate effectively with families regarding specialized interventions and student progress.
Collaborate with the Assistant Director of Special Education on program evaluation and continuous improvement.
Represent WCKSEC at regional and state meetings related to low incidence disabilities.
Data and Compliance
Maintain accurate records of coaching activities, professional development, and technical assistance provided.
Collect and analyze data on implementation fidelity and student outcomes.
Assist with monitoring compliance with federal, state, and local special education regulations.
Compile reports as required.
Travel as required across WCKSEC member districts (5 districts, 19 buildings).
Other
Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, cooperative, and district regulations and policies.
Participate in cooperative initiatives and committees as assigned.
Maintain confidentiality of student and personnel information.
Other duties as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
No direct supervisory responsibilities; provides instructional coaching and mentoring to teachers and paraeducators.
Benefits Information
Full District Paid Single Medical and Dental Coverage
Free Annual Eye Exams with Medical Coverage
Ancillary and Voluntary offerings include Vision Materials Coverage
District Paid Basic Life Insurance, Voluntary Life
Short Term Disability, Accident, Critical Illness, Identify Theft Insurance
Flexible Spending options for Medical Expenses and Dependent Day Care
District contribution to Health Saving Account
District contribution to 403b retirement plan in addition to KPERS - State of Kansas Retirement
Paid Time Off
Seasonal Breaks, Weekends, Holidays Off
Tuition Assistance partnership with FHSU
Salary Information
Compensation: Based on cooperative salary schedule, depending on professional development and years of experience.
Employer Information
Hays School District has about 3,000 students that are enrolled in a high school, middle school, four elementary schools, and an alternative school. The staff of Unified School District No. 489 are recognized throughout Kansas and across the nation as leaders in educational excellence.
Hays Public Schools enjoy tremendous support from the community. Through this support, USD 489 is able to offer programs like all-day, kindergarten, the smallest class sizes in the state for districts our size, and a longer school year. An extensive special education program serves children with special needs. Early childhood programs serve children and their families in a three-county area from before-birth to age six. Technology, throughout the district, is used to supplement and strengthen the instructional program. The most noticeable aspect of our technology is in our ratio of students to computers. At Hays High and the middle schools it is 1:1; and 2:1 in the elementary schools.
While doing an excellent job on the test score race, the staff continues to seek to develop the creativity, curiosity, and problem solving skills of students as well. The challenges of the future are best dealt with by applying creativity and foresight to a solid foundation. We are equipped at USD 489.
To learn more about our schools, visit our website at www.usd489.com
