Dallas Middle School - Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher - Middle School

Position

Purpose:

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 academics, interpersonal skills, and activities of daily living by implementing the district approved curriculum; ability to document teaching and student progress/activities as well as outcomes; address each student's specific needs via the IEP process in compliance with state and federal guidelines;

provide a safe and optimal learning environment for all students.

Preferred:
Certifications in multiple content areas. Wilson Reading Experienced/Trained. Additional/Program specific certifications/training. Experience in serving students with emotional support needs. Experience in serving students with autistic support needs. Co-teaching experience and knowledge of making modifications across curricular areas. Strong background in behavior management. Understanding strategies to motivate students who struggle in the areas of executive functioning skills and non-compliance of task completion.

Essential Functions:

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. Experience in using the IEP Writer system/or comparable systems to develop and write Individual Educational Plans ("IEP") for students within the school district. Assist students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEPs and behavior management plans.

Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed. Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with social work services. Serves as ready resource to students and parents to provide counseling that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management;

serves as liaison between home and school. Continues to acquire professional knowledge of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community. Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing student information to prospective colleges and employers, as required by district procedures and applicable laws.

Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents. Selects and requisitions appropriate books, aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.

Additional Duties:
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal, Director of Special Education and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities:
Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc., as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs. Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles. 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 systems and software applications as needed.

Ability to organize and coordinate work. Ability to communicate effectively with students 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.

Qualifications Profile:
Certification/License:
Pennsylvania Certification as a Special Education Teacher.

Education:

Bachelors or Masters Degree in Special Education.

Experience:

Successful prior special education teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred. FLSA Status:
Exempt