Special Education Teacher AS - rolling until filled

About the Role

A Special Education Teacher is responsible for supporting students with disabilities by delivering instruction that will enable them to make progress toward their goals as outlined in their Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). The role emphasizes creating an inclusive environment that values diversity, equity, and cultural proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Meets and instructs assigned classes in designated locations and times.
• Prepares for classes and provides written evidence of preparation upon request.
• Plans differentiated lessons aligned with the PA Core and approved courses of study.
• Demonstrates understanding and implementation of the Danielson Framework.
• Creates a classroom environment conducive to learning, appropriate to student maturity and interests.
• Implements the district’s philosophy of education and instructional goals.
• Develops instructional materials and lessons targeting students’ IEP goals and diverse learning needs.
• Uses strategies to improve sensory, perceptual motor, language, cognition, and memory skills as indicated in IEPs.
• Modifies the general education curriculum for students based on their needs, using various instructional methodologies and technology.
• Develops and prepares IEPs and other special education reports in compliance with timelines.
• Collaborates with IEP team members and staff to address student needs and monitor progress.
• Maintains accurate and complete student records as required by PA special education laws and district policies.
• Monitors the proper implementation of IEPs and Supplementary Aids and Services (SDIs) across all school environments.
• Develops Positive Behavior Support Plans for students with behaviors that impede learning.
• Establishes and enforces reasonable classroom behavior rules and procedures.
• Teaches socially acceptable behavior using techniques such as behavior modification and positive reinforcement.
• Instructs personal development and functional skills, including goal setting, independence, and self-advocacy.
• Monitors special education assistants to ensure they fulfill job responsibilities.
• Facilitates the use of assistive devices, support technology, and assistance with activities of daily living.
• Prepares, administers, and grades tests and assignments to evaluate student progress.
• Ensures student goals are monitored throughout the duration of the IEP with effective progress monitoring.
• Provides opportunities for students to be included in the least restrictive environment with non-disabled peers.
• Supports the use of supplementary aids and services to provide meaningful access.
• Takes necessary precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Schedules and holds special education meetings within designated timelines and in compliance with PA laws.
• Consults with parents, administrators, school psychologists, interagency personnel, and related service providers to develop IEPs.
• Attends professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops to maintain professional competence.
• Attends staff meetings and serves on staff committees as required.
• Performs additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Education.
• Appropriate PA certification in Special Education.

Skills

• Ability to direct a classroom effectively.
• Strong lesson planning skills.
• Ability to interact positively with all stakeholders.
• Commitment to supporting a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Schedule

7.5 hours per day, 37.5 hours per week, 191 days per year.

Physical Requirements

The role involves varying levels of physical exertion, primarily sedentary to light work, with occasional requirements for medium work. Specific requirements include:

• Sedentary: Involves sitting most of the time; ability to exert up to 10 lbs of force occasionally.
• Light work: Involves sitting most of the time with occasional use of arm/leg control; ability to exert up to 20 lbs of force occasionally and/or up to 10 lbs frequently.
• Medium work: Ability to exert up to 50 lbs of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 lbs frequently, and/or up to 10 lbs constantly.

Note: While the role is primarily sedentary or light work, the ability to perform medium work may occasionally be required.