Special Education Teacher, Cross Categorical Resource

About the Role

Coordinates and provides direct instructional programs for special education students and their Individual Education Programs (IEPs). Monitors and evaluates programs for students with disabilities, maintains confidentiality, and ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, guidelines, and procedures related to the special education program throughout the district. Maintains an environment conducive to learning.

Responsibilities

• Develops IEPs for students with disabilities; implements the IEP; and uses diagnostic information obtained from tests and other assessment procedures to update IEPs, as needed.
• Implements instructional strategies and progress monitoring tools to provide specially designed instruction.
• Assists students in completing the curriculum tasks and achieving IEP goals.
• Employs a variety of teaching methods, strategies, accommodations, and modifications to meet student needs; adapts and/or develops materials as required.
• Monitors student behavior; maintains discipline in the classroom; de-escalates inappropriate behaviors; teaches students appropriate behavioral strategies.
• Evaluates student work and progress on assignments, adjusts instruction to address concerns or educational needs, and coordinates progress report grades and report card grades.
• Attends student IEP meetings and serves as a collaborative team member.
• Stays abreast of trends, research, and best practices for instruction by attending professional development events, utilizing social media, and communicating with other professionals within and outside the district.
• Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/university.
• Hold or be eligible for a North Carolina Professional Educator’s License in an Exceptional Children’s teaching area (excluding licenses in Academically or Intellectually Gifted).
• Must hold and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator’s license according to the State of NC requirements.

Skills

• Extensive knowledge of instructional practices and delivery related to specially designed instruction.
• Extensive knowledge of general content curriculum standards and age-appropriate developmental expectations.
• Considerable knowledge of state and federal policies and procedures overseeing the services of students with disabilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Apps.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to protect the confidentiality of personally identifiable information in accordance with FERPA and other applicable laws.
• Ability to work in a team environment and collaborate effectively with others.
• Ability to motivate students and monitor their safety and well-being.
• Ability to recognize and support students with diverse backgrounds, abilities, exceptionalities, physical needs, and learning styles.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to use various communication tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information and feedback.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school staff, students, parents, businesses, community agencies, and the public.

Preferred Qualifications

• First Aid and CPR certifications.
• Crisis Prevention and Intervention (CPI) certification.

Working Conditions

Physical Environment: Must be able to use office equipment such as computers, scanners, and copiers. Requires effective communication. May occasionally lift, carry, push, pull, or exert up to 50 pounds of force; frequently up to 25 pounds; and constantly up to 10 pounds. Physical requirements align with medium work standards. Assistance from the school’s Physical Therapist is available for proper lifting techniques if needed.

Work Environment: Works in a classroom and office setting, with direct contact with school staff, students, parents, and the community.