Special Education Teacher

Reports To: Building Principal

SUMMARY

Special Education Teachers provide quality direct and indirect instructional services to meet the needs of students with a variety of learning disabilities in a positive learning environment, according to their approved IEP. They teach district prescribed curriculum in the assigned area(s); utilize effective planning for each days’ teaching; and clarify goals, objectives, standards and benchmarks of lessons and assignments. They are knowledgeable in, and utilize, differentiated instruction in all classes with all students. They also work as a team member to complete and submit all paperwork, documentation and reports in a timely manner.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintain a respectful environment and open communication with students

• Continually seek to motivate students for the learning task at hand

• Identify strengths and weaknesses in students

• Support and assist building staff in maintaining order and appropriate behavior among students

• Provide reasonable care and safety of assigned students at any particular time

• Utilize instructional materials and other educational resources in a competent and effective manner

• Utilize a variety of resources to enhance the teaching and learning process

• Modify general education curriculum for special needs students based upon a variety of instructional techniques and technologies

• Supervise, coordinate and monitor paraprofessionals in their responsibilities and duties

• Provide appropriate appraisal for referred students including written program recommendations

• Consult with teachers and parents in regard to their student with disabilities

• Maintain student records necessary for continuous evaluation relating to the student’s IEP

• Meet with general education teachers to ensure that IEP requirements are being met and to obtain information about student performance

• Attend all required professional development activities and meetings

• Participate in professional activities that enhance the mission of the school/district and the meeting of district standards

• Seek continuing education or professional development which aligns to district goals

• Demonstrate high standards of professionalism and ethics

• Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree or higher from an accredited college or university with emphasis in special education. 

• Language Skills: Ability to respond to common inquiries from parents, patrons or staff. Ability to prepare clear, concise, grammatically correct letters, memos and other written documents. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

• Computer Skills: Proficient in the use of MS Word, MS Excel, Google Docs, email and standard office equipment.

• Other Skills and Abilities: Ability to work well with students with multiple ability levels and make modifications and/or accommodations for students in the regular classroom. Appropriately communicate with students, parents, district staff and members of the community. A strong knowledge of special education rules and regulations. Establish a school climate which will prompt appropriate student behavior. Ability to exercise mature and professional judgment while teaching, dealing with others and working in a dynamic environment. Ability to supervise paraprofessionals. Ability to be flexible, organized and take initiative. Exhibit a willingness to seek cooperative working relationships with district staff, participate in planned meetings and district trainings, as well as grow professionally. Maintain confidentiality of information concerning colleagues, students and parents.

• Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Wyoming Teaching Certification with Special Education Endorsement is required. Seclusion and Restraint certification is also required for all Special Education Teachers, which will be provided by the District. Must have a valid Driver’s License and a clear driving record. Must agree to and clear a background check.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Work is generally performed in a classroom setting, requiring the frequent use of communication equipment and computers. This position may require some travel around the District.

Performing the job duties of this position require the following physical demands: Some lifting, carrying, bending, stooping, kneeling, and sitting. Need to have the visual acuity and stamina to work at a computer frequently.  

The employee may encounter situations where students are physically aggressive and verbally abusive. This may require physical interaction between the employee and student. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The employee is frequently exposed to infection at a greater risk than the average person. May be directly responsible for the safety, well-being and/or output of students. 

Note: This is not necessarily an exhaustive or all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts, functions or working conditions associated with the job. The District may add to, modify or delete any aspect of this job at any time as it deems advisable.