Special Education Teacher – Social Thinking, Executive Functioning, Behavior Supports

Spring Branch Independent School District

Job Description

Special Education Teacher – Social Thinking, Executive Functioning, Positive Behavior Supports (STEPS)

Job Title:
Special Education Teacher – STEPS Program Teacher

Reports To: Building Principal

Classification: Professional

Wage/Hour Status: Exempt

Days: 188

Salary: See Compensation Plan for New Hire Guide for Teachers

Contract: Probationary/Term

Date Revised: 12/4/2019

Primary

Purpose:

Responsible for the instructional program and guidance of students identified as needing special education services, who have behavioral, social, and/or executive functioning needs in the mainstream setting.

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor's degree in related field.
• Valid Texas Teacher Certificate or Teaching Certificate from out of state appropriate for position.
• ESL Certification required during 1st year if it has not already been obtained.
• Certification must meet requirements for becoming and remain qualified for this position in a manner required by Federal and/or State law.

Special Knowledge/

Skills:

• Extensive knowledge of effective social behavioral practices for students with disabilities (including Autism, ADHD, Emotional Disabilities) in mainstream settings.
• Proficient in designing, implementing, and monitoring complex behavior intervention plans.
• Expertise in data collection systems to develop instructional and behavioral strengths, needs, and goals for specially designed instruction as well as progress monitoring.
• Trained in de-escalation and restraint techniques as required by the district.
• Excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in the effective use of technology.
• Physical capacity to meet needs of students with physical disabilities.
• Ability to work effectively with both adults and children.

Instructional Strategies:

• Adhere to the district's philosophy of instruction.
• Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of district's curriculum program and show written evidence of preparation as required.
• Prepare lessons that reflect accommodations for differences in student learning styles. Present subject matter according to guidelines established by Texas Education Agency, board policies and administrative regulations.
• Participate in the identification/evaluation of learner competencies.
• Recommend appropriate goals/objectives for learner needs.
• Assist in developing/writing students' IEP's.
• Follow specific instructional objectives based on student's learning style.
• Implement new methodologies, philosophies and innovations.

Student Growth and Development:

• Help students analyze and improve study skills, pro-social behaviors, and replacement behaviors.
• Conduct ongoing assessment of student achievement through formal and informal assessments.
• Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by campus principal.
• Be a positive role model for students and support the mission of school district.
• Assist with needs of students with physical disabilities.

Classroom Management and Organization:

• Create classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social and emotional development of students. Manage student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials and facilities.
• Assist in the selection of books, equipment and other instructional materials.
• Attend required meetings and complete required reports.

Communication:

• Establish and maintain open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals and teachers. Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents and community members.
• Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.
• Collaborate with others to provide for learner needs.
• Consult with parents and other appropriate school personnel concerning each student's intellectual, academic, social, emotional and physical development.

Professional Growth and Development:

• Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills. Keep informed of and comply with state, district and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers.
• Compile, maintain and file all physical and computerized reports, records and other documents required.
• Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

Other:

• Perform other duties as assigned.

None

Computer, copy machine and audio visual machines.

Mental Demands:

• Maintain emotional control under stress.
• Work with frequent interruptions.
• This position requires regular in-person interaction with the public.

Physical Demands:

• Frequent standing, stooping, bending, pulling and pushing.
• Move small stacks of textbooks, media equipment, desk and other classroom equipment.
• May require occasional extended hours.