Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher

Under the general supervision of the School Principal and Director of Special Education, the teacher will maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academic skills, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living, and social-emotional and behavioral skills, by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities and outcomes; addressing student specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment;

and providing feedback to students, parents and administration regarding student progress, expectations and goals.

Knowledge of special education principles, theories, testing, methods as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs. Knowledge of differentiated instruction, specially designed instruction, and high leverage practices for students with diverse learning needs. Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, and the formulation of action plans. Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.

Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed. Ability to organize and coordinate work. Ability to communicate effectively with students, staff, and parents. Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth. Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work. Ability to meet timelines and deadlines, and thoroughly and accurately complete documentation related to the special education process.

Case Management:
Conducts assessments, testing, and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning. Case manages and facilitates the Independent Education Plan (IEP) process:
Referral, Eligibility Determination, IEP Development, and Placement. Assists students and teaching staff in implementing student IEPs and behavior management plans. Develops and administers school curriculum consistent with school district initiatives, and goals and objectives. Serves as ready resource to students and parents to provide special education support that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management;

serves as liaison between home and school for students on the caseload. Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.

Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction and student learning. Develops lesson plans and instructional materials, and translates lesson plans into learning experiences so as to best utilize the available time for instruction. Conducts ongoing assessment, including data collection of student learning in the educational setting. Provides a range of purposefully and intentionally designed instructional practices in collaboration with classroom teachers to adapt instruction to the needs of special education students by adjusting the content, methodology, or delivery of instruction, and when necessary provide modifications to address the unique needs of the child to ensure access of the child to the general curriculum and student needs are met in the least restrictive setting.

Conducts individual and small group instruction as needed and appropriate. Works collaboratively with IEP teams to develop IEPs for students on their caseload and then shares the IEPs with all relevant staff members. Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents on their caseload. Assists the classroom teacher in ensuring that student conduct conforms with the school's standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.

Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's…