Adaptive Education Support Specialist in Oregon Career Overview

As an Adaptive Education Support Specialist, you play a vital role in fostering an inclusive learning environment for students with diverse needs. Your primary responsibility is to support students who may have cognitive, emotional, or physical challenges, helping them achieve their educational goals.

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Collaborating with educators, parents, and other professionals to develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to each student's unique requirements.
  • Providing direct support and interventions, adapting teaching methodologies to suit varied learning styles and abilities.
  • Monitoring student progress and making necessary adjustments to strategies to ensure effective learning outcomes.
  • Advocating for students' needs within the educational system, ensuring they have access to appropriate resources and support services.
  • Promoting a positive and inclusive classroom atmosphere that encourages participation and engagement among all students.

Your expertise is essential in bridging the gap between traditional education practices and the specific needs of students requiring adaptive support, making a meaningful impact on their educational experiences and overall development.

Adaptive Education Support Specialist Salary in Oregon

Annual Median: $38,750
Hourly Median: N/A

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Adaptive Education Support Specialist in Oregon

To become an Adaptive Education Support Specialist in Oregon, you will need to acquire specific educational qualifications and training. Below are the recommended degree programs that align with this career path:

  • Administration of Special Education: This program focuses on the principles and practices involved in managing special education services within educational institutions, equipping you with the necessary leadership and organizational skills.

  • Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching: Completing this degree prepares you to work with diverse adult learners, providing strategies that can be beneficial in adapting educational programs for various backgrounds and abilities.

  • Special Education and Teaching: This program offers a foundational understanding of special education, including the development of teaching methods tailored to meet the needs of students with disabilities.

  • Education of Individuals with Autism: Focusing specifically on autism spectrum disorders, this degree provides specialized knowledge and techniques essential for effectively supporting students on the spectrum.

  • Teacher Education and Professional Development: This program cultivates your teaching abilities while emphasizing continuous professional growth, essential for staying updated with the latest educational practices and policies.

In addition to these degree programs, consider obtaining relevant certifications or endorsements, which may enhance your qualifications and marketability in the field.

Best Schools to become a Adaptive Education Support Specialist in Oregon 2024

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ

In-State Tuition:$10,978
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,248
Admission Rate:64%
Graduation Rate:52%
Total Enrollment:62,551

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX

In-State Tuition:$6,228
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,020
Admission Rate:84%
Graduation Rate:38%
Total Enrollment:16,803

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709

Ball State University

Muncie, IN

In-State Tuition:$8,434
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,918
Admission Rate:69%
Graduation Rate:64%
Total Enrollment:19,777
Adaptive Education Support Specialist Job Description:
  • Assist a preschool, elementary, middle, or secondary school teacher to provide academic, social, or life skills to students who have learning, emotional, or physical disabilities.
  • Serve in a position for which a teacher has primary responsibility for the design and implementation of educational programs and services.

Adaptive Education Support Specialist Required Skills and Competencies in Oregon

  • Empathy and Compassion: You need to understand and relate to the challenges faced by students with diverse needs, fostering a supportive environment.

  • Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication is essential for conveying information clearly to students, parents, and educational staff.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: You should be capable of identifying challenges and developing creative strategies tailored to individual students' needs.

  • Patience and Resilience: Working with students who require additional support can be challenging. Maintaining patience and resilience allows you to navigate obstacles effectively.

  • Collaboration and Teamwork: Engaging with teachers, therapists, and parents requires strong teamwork skills. You must be able to work collaboratively to create and implement effective educational plans.

  • Adaptability and Flexibility: Each student's needs may change frequently. Being adaptable allows you to respond to these changes with appropriate adjustments to support strategies.

  • Cultural Competence: Understanding and respecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of students is important for creating an inclusive learning environment.

  • Organizational Skills: You should be able to manage multiple students' needs and various tasks simultaneously, ensuring that all students receive appropriate support in a timely manner.

  • Knowledge of Special Education Laws and Practices: Familiarity with relevant legislation, such as IDEA and Section 504, is vital for advocating for students’ rights and ensuring compliance with educational standards.

  • Behavior Management Techniques: You should possess skills in implementing behavioral interventions and positive reinforcement strategies to help students achieve their goals.

  • Assessment and Evaluation: Competence in assessing student progress and evaluating the effectiveness of instructional strategies is essential for making informed adjustments to support plans.

Job Duties for Adaptive Education Support Specialists

  • Assist in bus loading and unloading.

  • Assist librarians in school libraries.

  • Attend staff meetings and serve on committees, as required.

Technologies Used by Adaptive Education Support Specialists

Computer based training software

  • Padlet
  • Schoology

Data base user interface and query software

  • Blackboard software
  • Student information systems SIS software

Electronic mail software

  • Email software
  • Microsoft Outlook

Job Market and Opportunities for Adaptive Education Support Specialist in Oregon

  • The demand for Adaptive Education Support Specialists in Oregon has seen a consistent increase, driven by a growing awareness of inclusive education practices and a commitment to meeting the needs of diverse learners.

  • Various factors contribute to this demand:

    • Legislative efforts to emphasize individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with disabilities.
    • The integration of technology in educational settings, which requires specialized support.
    • An increase in the enrollment of students with special needs across public and private schools.
  • Employment growth in this field is projected to outperform many other areas within the education sector. You may find opportunities expanding in several key areas:

    • Public School Districts: Many districts are actively hiring to meet the needs of a diverse student population.
    • Private and Charter Schools: These institutions often seek professionals who can implement innovative approaches to adaptive education.
    • Alternative Education Programs: There is also a notable rise in demand within alternative settings which cater to students requiring specialized educational support.
  • Geographical hotspots for job opportunities in the field include:

    • Portland Metropolitan Area: Home to a high concentration of schools and educational programs, this region frequently lists openings for Adaptive Education Support Specialists.
    • Bend-Redmond Area: As this region grows, so does the need for educational support, particularly in integrated and specialized programs.
    • Eugene-Springfield Area: A strong focus on inclusion in local schools has led to significant hiring for adaptive specialists.
    • Salem: The state capital is also seeing a rise in positions due to state-funded educational initiatives focused on inclusivity.
  • Networking and professional development opportunities are abundant through various educational organizations and local support groups in Oregon. Engaging with these communities can enhance your job prospects and help you stay informed about the latest trends and requirements in the field.

  • Finally, consider keeping an eye on job boards and educational institutions’ career pages, as openings can appear frequently and often require timely applications.

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Adaptive Education Support Specialist in Oregon

  • Oregon Department of Education (ODE)

    • Website: Oregon Department of Education
    • Overview: This site offers guidelines and resources for special education, including best practices for Adaptive Education Support Specialists.
  • Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)

    • Website: Council for Exceptional Children
    • Overview: CEC is a leading organization in special education, providing resources, advocacy, and information on legislative issues impacting educators and students with disabilities.
  • National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)

    • Website: NASET
    • Overview: NASET offers a wealth of resources, including professional development opportunities, articles, and a community for special education professionals.
  • Oregon Advocacy Center

    • Website: Oregon Advocacy Center
    • Overview: This organization provides advocacy resources and services for individuals with disabilities and can be a key resource for understanding rights and support systems in Oregon.
  • Child Mind Institute

    • Website: Child Mind Institute
    • Overview: This resource offers articles and expert advice on child mental health and learning disorders, which can aid in developing supportive strategies.
  • Special Education Resource Center (SERC)

    • Website: SERC
    • Overview: SERC provides information and resources related to best practices in special education, including assessments and intervention strategies.
  • The IRIS Center

    • Website: The IRIS Center
    • Overview: The IRIS Center offers free resources, including training modules and case studies, to help educators improve their practices in support of diverse learners.
  • Teach For America - Oregon

    • Website: Teach For America - Oregon
    • Overview: This organization focuses on educational equity and may provide networking opportunities and resources for Adaptive Education Support Specialists in their Oregon programs.
  • American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE)

    • Website: AACTE
    • Overview: AACTE offers research, policy updates, and resources that can help you stay informed about trends in education preparation.
  • Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC)

    • Website: ERIC
    • Overview: ERIC is a comprehensive database of education research that includes numerous articles on special education and adaptive teaching strategies.

Utilizing these resources will enhance your understanding of the field and provide ongoing support in your role as an Adaptive Education Support Specialist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Adaptive Education Support Specialist in Oregon

  • What is the role of an Adaptive Education Support Specialist?
    An Adaptive Education Support Specialist assists students with diverse learning needs by creating personalized educational strategies, adapting materials, and providing support to help them succeed in academic settings.

  • What qualifications do I need to become an Adaptive Education Support Specialist in Oregon?
    Typically, a bachelor's degree in special education, psychology, or a related field is required. Additionally, obtaining a special educator’s license or endorsement from the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) may be necessary.

  • What skills are important for an Adaptive Education Support Specialist?
    Key skills include strong communication, empathy, problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork. A thorough understanding of individual learning disabilities and instructional strategies is also essential.

  • Where do Adaptive Education Support Specialists work?
    Most professionals work in public and private schools, but some may also find opportunities in community programs, educational consulting firms, or organizations that provide support services to students with disabilities.

  • What are the typical job responsibilities of an Adaptive Education Support Specialist?
    Responsibilities include assessing students' needs, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), collaborating with teachers and parents, providing direct support in the classroom, and training staff on effective instructional strategies.

  • Is certification necessary for this career?
    While not always mandatory, certification can enhance your job prospects and credibility. Various certifications are available, such as the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification in special education.

  • What is the job outlook for Adaptive Education Support Specialists in Oregon?
    The demand for special education professionals is generally strong due to growing awareness of and advocacy for inclusive education. Job opportunities may vary by district, so local demand should be researched.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
    Yes, with experience, you may advance to positions such as special education coordinator, program director, or even a leadership role in educational policy and administration.

  • What professional development opportunities are available?
    Opportunities may include workshops, conferences, webinars, and advanced degree programs. Staying updated on educational technologies and teaching strategies can also enhance your skills.

  • Can I work with specific age groups or disabilities?
    Yes, many Adaptive Education Support Specialists choose to specialize in specific age groups, such as early childhood, or in certain disabilities, like autism spectrum disorder or learning disabilities, based on their interests and qualifications.