Special Education Teacher

Position Purpose

The Special Education Teacher supports assigned classroom staff to provide specialized instruction to students with disabilities in accordance with their Individualized Education Plan (IEPs)/Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP). The teacher develops and implements instructional strategies that support academic, social, emotional, and behavioral growth while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

• Develop interim plans for children being referred to early intervention and/or the Local Education Agency.
• Support classroom staff to implement and monitor Individualized Education Plans (IEP)/Individual Family Service Plan IFSP in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
• Provide direct instruction in academic, behavioral, social, and life skills areas based on student needs.
• Conduct assessments and use data to develop measurable annual goals and progress reports.
• Modify curriculum and adapt instructional materials to meet diverse learning needs.
• Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusion and differentiated instruction.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
• Participate in ARD/IEP meetings and communicate effectively with parents, guardians, and service providers.
• Implement classroom management strategies and positive behavior supports.
• Coordinate related services (speech, occupational therapy, counseling, etc.) as required.
• Ensure a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment.
• Monitor and report student progress toward IEP/IFSP goals.
• Comply with district policies, state regulations, and special education timelines.
• Maintain compliance with the Head Start Program Performance Standards.
• Ensure confidentiality of student information in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

• Communicate effectively and respectfully with children, families, and staff.
• Provide clear explanations of IEP/IFSP goals, progress, and strategies to families.
• Maintain timely and accurate written documentation, reports, and correspondence.

• Collaborate effectively with classroom teachers, teacher assistants, family advocates, and support staff.
• Foster a respectful, team-oriented work environment.
• Provide coaching and guidance on implementing accommodation and behavior supports

• Knowledge of early childhood development (birth–age
  5).
• Understanding of inclusion practices in preschool environments.
• Ability to design developmentally appropriate, individualized instruction.
• Strong collaboration skills with families and multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of behavior intervention strategies appropriate for young children.
• Ability to maintain detailed documentation and meet compliance timelines.
• Cultural responsiveness and commitment to family-centered practices.
• Communicate effectively with diverse groups both verbally and in writing.

• Bachelor's degree in special education, Early Childhood Special Education, or related field (Master's preferred).
• Valid state certification in Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) or Special Education.
• Experienced working with preschool-aged children with disabilities preferred.
• Knowledge of early childhood assessment tools and IEP development.