Middle College High - Special Education Teacher (Resource) - 1.0 FTE

This position is part of the Extended Resource service pathway within the Special Education Department. The role supports special education students in a unique setting at Middle College High School, which focuses on improving early college access for all learners, including those with special needs. The school is located on the campus of North Seattle College, with some students also attending Seattle Central College.

Responsibilities

• Fosters an educational environment conducive to the learning and maturation of assigned special education students; plans and adapts instructional programs to meet individual student needs.
• Uses appropriate instructional methods and materials suited to student needs; implements and adapts curriculum objectives; attends in-service training and pursues professional growth.
• Establishes and implements classroom policies and procedures for student behavior and conduct; provides guidance, counseling, and discipline; makes referrals for additional support as needed.
• Confers with students, parents or guardians, specialists, and staff to provide guidance, evaluation, and encouragement for student achievement.
• Develops and implements Individualized Education Programs (IEPs); evaluates and records student progress; prepares reports for parents or guardians and administrative purposes.
• Directs the activities of assigned non-certificated personnel; attends to students' physical, emotional, behavioral, medical, or hygienic needs as appropriate.
• Collects and interprets data for IEP development and evaluation; amends documents as necessary.
• Attends required staff meetings, participates in professional development, and serves on committees as needed.
• Attends at least one of two annual Special Education Compliance Professional Development days.
• Performs related tasks consistent with the scope and responsibilities of the position.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Academic preparation or experience in teaching a culturally, racially, and economically diverse student population in an urban school system.
• Experience teaching reading and adapting instructional techniques for special education students.
• Valid Washington State Teaching Certificate with Special Education Endorsement.
• Some positions may require valid first aid and CPR certification or a valid Washington State driver’s license.

Skills

• Knowledge of: Subject areas appropriate to assignment; effective behavior management and instructional techniques; rules and procedures for student safety; special education regulations.
• Skill in: Reading, writing, and oral communication; designing and implementing lesson plans for diverse learners; adapting curricula to meet intellectual, social, physical, and emotional needs.
• Ability to:
  • Engage with students in a positive and confident manner.
  • Work effectively with a culturally, racially, and economically diverse student population.
  • Adapt to change and remain flexible in dynamic environments.
  • Organize activities and manage student behavior to maintain a safe learning environment.
  • Provide instruction and demonstrate techniques effectively.
  • Direct assistants and collaborate with staff, parents, and administrators.
  • Use necessary equipment, computers, or software; some positions may require administering first aid, CPR, sign language, Braille, or non-visual instructional techniques.
  • Address specific physical or emotional disabilities and associated conditions, such as severe behavior disorders.
  • Attend to students' physical and hygienic needs as required.

Working Conditions

• Works with a wide range of student achievements and behaviors, including students with diverse disabilities.
• Handles multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritizes effectively; may experience frequent interruptions.
• May occasionally or regularly deal with distraught or difficult students.
• Potentially exposed to ordinary infectious diseases or bodily fluids carried by students; may require precautions to prevent exposure to materials, fumes, or equipment.
• Some positions may require physical exertion, such as moving, positioning, or lifting students or equipment; restraining students; attending to personal hygiene; or accompanying students outdoors in inclement weather.
• May teach in classrooms without telephone communication.

Benefits

Eligibility for benefits is determined by the number of hours worked during the school year (September 1 through August 31). Employees scheduled to work 630 hours or more in a year are eligible for benefits administered by the Washington State Healthcare Authority (HCA) under the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB).