Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher – Rio Vista Elementary School, Rio Vista, Texas

Starting Date: Aug 3 2026

Position Type: Full‑time
Salary: $45,430 to $73,478 per month

Provide special education students with learning activities and experiences designed to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Develop or modify curricula and prepare lessons and other instructional materials to match student ability levels. Work in self‑contained, team, departmental, or itinerant capacity as assigned.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
• Certification:
  Valid Texas teaching certificate with required special education endorsements.
• Special Knowledge/
  
  Skills:
  
  Knowledge of special needs of students in the assigned area;
  Knowledge of the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee process and Individual Education Plan (IEP) goal‑setting process and implementation;
  Knowledge of how to adapt curriculum and instruction for special needs;
  Effective communication skills.
• Experience:
  
  Student teaching, approved internship, or related work experience.

• Collaborate with students, parents, and staff to develop IEPs through the ARD Committee process.
• Implement an instructional, therapeutic, or skill‑development program and provide written evidence of preparation when required.
• Conduct assessments of student learning styles and plan appropriate instructional strategies, activities, materials, and equipment.
• Present subject matter effectively according to IEP guidelines using a variety of instructional techniques and media, including technology.
• Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula and assist special education students in regular classes with assignments.
• Participate in ARD Committee meetings regularly.
• Select books, equipment, and instructional media.

• Conduct ongoing assessments of student achievement through formal and informal testing.
• Provide or supervise personal care, medical care, and feeding of students as noted in IEPs.
• Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned and sponsor approved outside activities.
• Consult district and outside resource people regarding education, social, medical, and personal needs of students.

• Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.
• Manage student behavior and administer discipline, including intervention in crisis situations and physically restraining students when necessary per IEP.
• Consult with classroom teachers regarding behavior management per IEP.
• Take precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Plan, assign, and oversee the work of teacher aides and volunteers.

• Maintain open communication through conferences with parents, students, principals, and teachers.
• Maintain professional relationships with parents, students, and colleagues.
• Participate in staff development activities to improve job‑related skills.
• Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, district, and school regulations and policies for special education teachers.
• Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required.
• Attend faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.
• Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• May serve on a district or campus threat assessment and safe‑and‑supportive schools team.

Direct the work of instructional aides.

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer, peripherals, and other instructional equipment.

Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, twisting.

Motion: Frequent walking.

Lifting: May require regular heavy lifting (45 lb or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities, including physical restraint; may work prolonged or irregular hours.

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards.

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress.

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.