Special Education Teacher Life Skills

About the Role

Under the general supervision of the School Principal and Director of Special Education, the teacher maximizes the learning experience of students with special needs in academics, interpersonal skills, and activities of daily living by implementing district-approved curriculum, documenting teaching and student progress, addressing students' specific needs, and providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Responsibilities

• Conducts assessments, testing, and diagnostic examinations of students to identify learning issues and recommend corrective procedures to maximize learning.
• Leads the development of goal-oriented Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) for students.
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEPs and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations, and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
• Collaborates with administrators and other teaching staff to assess individual student abilities and needs, including those with special needs, and familiarizes stakeholders with social work services.
• Serves as a resource to students and parents, providing counseling to support personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; acts as a liaison between home and school.
• Stays current with professional knowledge and educational developments by attending seminars, workshops, or professional meetings, conducting research, and maintaining professional relationships.
• Maintains accurate and complete record-keeping systems for student information, as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Assists in the orientation of new teachers and provides in-service training in guidance.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, aids, and other supplies and equipment, maintaining inventory records.
• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and central office administrators.

Temperament

• Must possess excellent interpersonal skills.
• Able to work in an environment with frequent interruptions while maintaining a rational, calm, and equitable demeanor under high stress.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff, students, and the public.
• Exhibits a positive attitude toward the position and follows established procedures.
• Understands the importance of pleasant and efficient responses to public inquiries and ensures accurate dissemination of information.
• Performs duties efficiently while managing time and tasks effectively.
• Demonstrates a "team" mentality in cooperation with management and staff.

Equipment

Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printers, copy and fax machines, and telephones.

Travel Requirements

Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Qualifications

• K-12 Special Education Certification (preference given to applicants with additional certifications).
• Willingness to obtain additional certifications as required.
• Motor Vehicle Operator’s License or ability to provide own transportation.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in an education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
• Master’s Degree in Special Education preferred.
• Successful prior special education teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.

Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, and methods for maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based on student learning styles.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, and action plan formulation.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network systems and software applications.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work effectively.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation regarding performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.

Preference will be given to candidates with verbal behavior training.

Physical & Mental Demands

Works in standard office and school building environments.