WMS Special Education Teacher- Extended Resource; beginning

Whitefish School District

Area: Whitefish Middle School, Special Education Teacher - Extended Resource

Reports to: Director of Student Services and Principal

Whitefish School District seeks an educator with a track‑record of raising student achievement to join the team of educators dedicated to providing a deeper learning instructional program to all students. With the support of our community, the district creates an educational environment where each student can reach their academic potential, prepare for career opportunities, and become engaged citizens.

The educator will provide individualized instruction to students with disabilities based on assessed needs and serve as the case manager for implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in accordance with Montana laws and rules for special education. This position utilizes instructional strategies that promote access to the common core curriculum while emphasizing communication and functional, adaptive, and daily living skills necessary for independence.

All duties align with the District’s Strategic Plan, prioritizing the safety, health, and well‑being of students.

• Valid Montana Certificate or eligibility for Montana endorsement in special education.
• Alternatively, a certified teacher who meets the criteria to enroll in the Montana Special Education Teacher Endorsement Project.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of student and employment matters.
• Ability to respond to questions from the community, manage conflict, and handle stressful situations.
• Ability to write reports and business correspondence.

• Previous experience working with children with disabilities.
• Demonstrated understanding of child and adolescent developmental issues.

• IEP Development & Leadership: Assumes the lead role in drafting, implementing, and managing an appropriate IEP for each student; leads and participates in evaluation and IEP meetings as required by law.
• Instructional Planning: Prepares and maintains weekly lesson plans that clearly relate to the goals and objectives described in the IEP.
• Evaluations & Data: Completes educational evaluations and progress monitoring; interprets complex test results and data for parents, administrators, and school personnel.

• General Education Integration: Coordinates remedial or tutorial instruction with general education teachers and assists them in developing classroom or curricular modifications.
• Professional Consultation: Consults regularly with specialized staff and other professionals regarding related educational matters to ensure a holistic approach to student development.

• Classroom Management: Maintains an environment conducive to learning by setting high expectations and employing behavior management principles (e.g., behavioral contracting, token economy).
• Supervision: Exercises direct supervision over students to ensure safety and instructional fidelity.
• Direction: Provides direction to assigned para educators to ensure safety and instructional fidelity within the responsibilities and professional boundaries of the para educator role.
• Student Support: Provides prompt evaluative feedback and manages students' personal needs, which may include feeding, toileting, and physical assistance.

• Records & Confidentiality: Maintains accurate, confidential records in accordance with FERPA and IDEA regulations.
• Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting: Adheres to state law and district policy regarding the mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect.
• Continuous Improvement: Pursues ongoing professional growth through active participation in workshops, seminars, and advanced coursework to stay current with best practices in special education.

A variety of electronic and technology devices, copier, telephone/voice mail, fax, wheelchairs and other special needs equipment.

The employee regularly works inside the school for most duties, with some responsibilities…