Teacher, Special Education

Teacher, Special Education

To provide guidance and instructional experiences that are academically and developmentally appropriate for each student assigned to that classroom.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Understand and utilize all current laws for special needs students as the guidance for instruction
• Understand and ensure compliance with each Individual Education Program (IEP) for each student on assigned caseload
• Coordinate and facilitate IEP meetings for students on the assigned caseload including the annual review, reevaluation, and other IEP review meeting
• Demonstrate knowledge of the content area(s) and approved curriculum
• Differentiate instructional methods and resources in each area taught
• Recognize student diversity and create an atmosphere conducive to the promotion of positive student involvement and self-concept
• Demonstrate a willingness to examine and implement change
• Communicate accurately and effectively in the content area and maintain a professional rapport with students
• Comprehend the principles of student growth, development and learning, and apply them appropriately
• Obtain feedback from and communicate with students in a manner that enhances student learning and understanding
• Utilize a variety of teaching methods and resources for each area taught
• Use appropriate techniques, strategies, and materials to achieve the desired instructional goal
• Understand and apply learning theories
• Encourage the development of student involvement, responsibility, and critical thinking skills
• Manage classroom to ensure the best use of instructional time
• Develop and implement appropriate classroom management strategies while maintaining high expectations for student behavior
• Create an atmosphere conducive to learning, self-discipline, and development of realistic and positive self-concepts
• Encourage cooperation among students
• Maintain accurate and complete records as required by the school district, and report progress or lack thereof to parents in a timely manner
• Take precautions to protect equipment, materials, and facilities
• Work productively with administration, colleagues, parents, and community
• Prepare for instruction and show written evidence of preparation
• Complete duties (hall, bus, etc.) as assigned
• Leave adequate preparations for a substitute
• Use current technology for instruction and management
• Use diagnostic data to improve instructional programs
• Report suspected child abuse and neglect
• Be responsible for students on field trips
• Act as a good role model within the context of the school
• May supervise educational assistants and student teachers
• Attend staff meetings, and serve on committees as necessary
• Attend professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops in order to maintain and improve professional competence
• Accept other responsibilities as deemed necessary by the supervisor, in accordance with board policy and New Mexico state statues
• Comply with all Board of Education policies, administrative regulations, Public Education Department guidelines and local, state and federal laws
• Adhere to NM Code of Ethical Responsibility of the Education Profession (NMAC 6.60.9.8)
• Support and comply with grant, program and/or funding source requirements
• Perform additional tasks as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree, Master's degree preferred
• Valid New Mexico teaching license
• PED Endorsements as required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Dine language, culture, and history preferred
• Knowledge and compliance with school Safety Plan
• CPR/First Aid certification within the first 3 months of employment
• CPI Training certification within the first 3 months of employment
• Ability to work well with students, parents and administration
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations and be professional at all times
• Ability to multi-task and work well under pressure

Physical/

Job Requirements:

• Standing, sitting, walking, lifting, carrying up to 50 pounds, climbing, bending, reaching, kneeling, driving a vehicle, traveling long distances, writing, typing, word processing, reading, researching information, and effective communication skills

Safety and Health:

• Knowledge of universal hygiene precautions
• Completed and cleared background check
• Pass drug test if required for position
• Knowledge and compliance with district and school Safety Plans

Equipment/Material Handled:

• Multimedia equipment, including current technology
• Equipment/materials relevant to the job responsibilities

Valid driver license and insurable by district if necessary

Work Environment:

• Must be able to work within various degrees of noise, temperature and air quality
• Work interruptions
• Flexibility
• Must be self-motivated and able to complete job assignment without direct supervision
• Must complete applications and assignments within the time frames allowed
• Extended work hours, on occasion

Term of Employment:
Exempt