Special Education Teacher (Foley Elementary Program)

About the role

To coordinate, develop, and execute developmentally appropriate individual learning programs and educational services that will contribute to students' academic, social, and emotional growth.

Responsibilities

• Performs a variety of assessments and observations to determine the areas in which the student may need extra or modified educational services.
• Assessment areas may include academic performance, behavior, social development, or physical health.
• Identifies the students' needs and develops related lesson and teaching plans.
• Develops individualized education programs (IEPs) for each student, setting learning goals and adopting modifications as necessary; ensures each students activities and lessons are planned and organized according to his/her abilities.
• Reports on student progress toward IEP goals quarterly.
• Communicate effectively with students, staff, parents, and team members.
• Develops and teaches lessons that provide engaging learning opportunities for small groups and individual students while meeting required specifications of IEPs and 504 plans.
• Implements IEPs, provides ongoing or follow-up assessments, and continually tracks progress and makes modifications as necessary.
• Understands and develops intervention strategies and behavior intervention plans.
• Ensures programs comply with Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA); ensures each applicable student is provided with Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) that is properly modified for his/her individual needs.
• Develops, completes, and maintains all paperwork mandated by local, state, and federal guidelines, laws, and regulations.
• Attends all IEP meetings.
• Maintains knowledge of special education teaching methods, research, and best practices through professional development and study.
• Advocates on behalf of the students.
• Celebrates the achievements and successes of students.
• Recognizes the importance of staff attitude and professionalism in responding effectively to those in their charge.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Candidate Requirements

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to maintain a calm and patient demeanor with all students.
• Thorough understanding of various special education needs and services.
• Thorough understanding of and the ability to implement a variety of effective teaching methods.
• Thorough understanding of policies, laws, and guidelines related to special education including IDEA, IEPs, and 504.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Bachelors degree in Special Education required; Masters degree preferred.
• Appropriate state license or certification required.
• Two years of experience highly preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods standing and walking throughout school and classroom.
• Must be able to lift to 15 pounds at a time.
• Must be able to assist students who have physical difficulties.
• Must be able to kneel, sit, stand, crawl, push, and pull to assist and teach children throughout the day.
• Prolonged periods sitting and working on computer to complete necessary paperwork.