Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher – Job Description

Position Title: Special Education Teacher
Reports To: Director of Special Education / School Principal
Work Year: 10-Month Position (or per school calendar)

Position Summary:
The Special Education Teacher provides specialized instruction, support, and advocacy to ensure scholars with disabilities receive high-quality educational services in the least restrictive environment. This role includes implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborating with general education teachers, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and district regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Instruction and Academic Support

• Provide direct instruction to students with disabilities in accordance with their IEP goals and service minutes.
• Develop and deliver differentiated lesson plans tailored to individual learner needs.
• Implement research-based instructional strategies and accommodations in both resource and inclusion settings.
• Use progress‑monitoring tools to track student growth and adjust instruction as needed.

IEP Development and Compliance

• Develop, update, and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) according to IDEA guidelines.
• Conduct assessments and collect data to determine student needs and present levels of performance.
• Maintain compliance with all timelines, documentation requirements, and procedural safeguards.
• Facilitate IEP meetings, ensuring parent communication and meaningful participation.

Collaboration and Consultation

• Work closely with general education teachers to support inclusion, co‑teaching, and classroom modifications.
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress, concerns, and supports.
• Collaborate with related service providers (e.g., speech, OT, PT, behavior specialists).
• Participate in school‑wide meetings, PLCs, and professional development.

Classroom Environment and Behavior Support

• Create a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment that promotes independence and skill‑building.
• Implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and support student self‑regulation strategies.
• Use positive behavior supports and culturally responsive practices.

Documentation and Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records of IEPs, service logs, progress reports, and assessments.
• Ensure all documentation meets federal, state, and organizational standards.
• Prepare reports for compliance audits, monitoring visits, and meetings.

Qualifications Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or related field.
• Valid Special Education teaching license or eligibility for licensure.
• Knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, and state special education regulations.
• Experience working with students with diverse learning needs.

Preferred

• Master’s degree in Special Education.
• Experience in urban, charter, or inclusion‑focused school settings.
• Strong data‑analysis and progress‑monitoring skills.
• Familiarity with specialized curriculum, adaptive technology, or behavior supports.

Core Competencies

• Strong instructional planning and differentiation skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Cultural responsiveness and commitment to equity.
• Strong organization, time management, and attention to detail.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and staff.

Physical and

Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds when necessary.
• Ability to perform basic physical tasks related to student support (e.g., mobility assistance if required).
• Work is performed in a classroom, inclusion environment, and school setting.

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