Special Education Teacher

About the role

The Special Education Teacher at Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences plays a crucial role in supporting students with diverse learning needs. They collaborate with parents, general education teachers, and support staff to create and implement effective Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that address students' unique learning goals and accommodations.

Responsibilities

• Create and implement engaging and developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with the school's curriculum, Common Core, and state standards.
• Provide direct instruction to students with disabilities using evidence-based strategies tailored to individual learning styles and needs.
• Tailor teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities, ensuring each student's unique needs are met.
• Modify curriculum materials and instructional techniques to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities, ensuring access to the general education curriculum.
• Conduct ongoing assessments (formative and summative) to monitor students' progress and adjust instructional strategies as needed.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student achievement and behavior.
• Create a positive and inclusive classroom environment that fosters a love for learning, respectful behavior, and a sense of community among students.
• Implement positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS) to promote a positive and inclusive classroom environment.
• Address behavioral challenges proactively and collaboratively with the school's behavior support team.
• Work collaboratively with fellow teachers, administrators, and support staff to coordinate services and support for students with disabilities.
• Provide consultation and support to classroom teachers on best practices for inclusion and accommodations.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians regarding student progress, IEP goals, and instructional strategies.
• Foster a partnership with families to support students' academic and social-emotional growth.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to stay current on special education practices, instructional techniques, and legal requirements.
• Stay informed about current educational trends, participate in professional development opportunities, and continuously seek ways to enhance teaching skills and knowledge.
• Actively participate in the Teaching and Learning Cycle which requires analyzing data, completing action plans, delivering re-teach lessons and reflecting on the instructional learning cycle.
• Maintain a high level of knowledge and understanding of Michigan Administrative Rules for Special Education (MARSE) and how it relates to the implementation of Special Education services, procedures and processes.
• Contribute to a professional environment that is one of mutual respect, teamwork, and accountability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field; a Master's degree is preferred.
• Michigan Teacher Certification with Learning Disability endorsement (SM), Cognitive Impairment endorsement (SA), or Emotional Impairment endorsement (SE).
• Previous experience teaching elementary school students.
• Strong understanding of child development, pedagogy, and effective instructional strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office and the Google Suite.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
• Ability to adapt to a dynamic educational environment and contribute to a positive school culture.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Strong understanding of child development, pedagogy, and effective instructional strategies.
• Strong understanding of the Michigan Administrative Rules for Special Education (MARSE) and Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA).
• Experience writing and progress monitoring IEP goals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office and the Google Suite.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
• Ability to adapt to a dynamic educational environment and contribute to a positive school culture.

Pay

The salary range for certified teachers starts at $54,300.

Schedule

Length of the work year and hours of employment shall be those established by the District.