Thurgood Marshall Elementary - Special Education Teacher (Distinct) - 1.0 FTE

This position is assigned to the Distinct service pathway. For more information, visit the SPS Special Education Department website.

About the Role

A special education classroom teacher works under the general direction of the building principal or program manager, fostering an effective learning environment, adapting learning objectives for special education students, and providing instruction tailored to individual needs.

Responsibilities

• 40% Creates and adapts instructional programs and lesson plans to meet individual student needs in a supportive learning environment.
• 15% Uses appropriate instructional methods and materials, implements adapted curriculum objectives, and stays current with special education techniques through professional development.
• 10% Establishes and enforces classroom policies for student behavior and conduct, providing guidance, counseling, and discipline as needed.
• 5% Maintains open communication with students, parents, guardians, specialists, and staff to support student achievement.
• 10% Sets classroom goals aligned with individual education programs (IEPs), evaluates student progress, and prepares reports for parents or guardians.
• 5% Directs non-certificated staff, attends to students' physical, emotional, behavioral, medical, or hygienic needs, and monitors conditions and behaviors.
• 10% Collects and interprets data, develops and evaluates IEPs, and provides administrative reports.
• 5% Attends required staff meetings and participates in activities to support professional growth.

Additional functions may include serving on committees, enhancing professional skills, and attending annual Special Education Compliance Professional Development days.

Requirements

Knowledge

• Subject areas relevant to the assignment.
• Effective behavior management and instructional techniques.
• Rules and procedures for student safety and special education regulations.

Skills

• Proficiency in reading, writing, and oral communication.
• Effective communication with diverse families and communities.
• Designing and implementing lesson plans for students with varying achievement levels.
• Adapting curricula to meet intellectual, social, physical, and emotional needs of special education students.

Abilities

• Engage with students positively and confidently in a diverse environment.
• Adapt to change and remain flexible in dynamic situations.
• Organize activities and manage student behavior effectively.
• Use good judgment to maintain a safe learning environment.
• Provide instruction and demonstrate techniques using necessary equipment, tools, or software.
• Direct assistants and, in some roles, administer first aid, CPR, or use non-verbal communication (e.g., sign language, Braille).
• Address specific physical or emotional disabilities and associated conditions (e.g., severe behavior disorders).
• Attend to physical and hygienic needs of students, including lifting or positioning students or equipment.
• Establish and maintain positive working relationships with students, families, staff, and administrators.

Working Conditions

• Work with students across a wide range of achievement levels and behaviors.
• Address varying student disabilities depending on the program.
• Handle multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize effectively.
• Manage frequent interruptions and occasionally work with distressed or difficult students.
• Potential exposure to infectious diseases or bodily fluids carried by students.
• In some roles, demonstrate techniques requiring physical stamina, movement, or specific positions for student safety.
• May need to take precautions against exposure to materials, fumes, or equipment.
• In some positions, move, position, or lift students or equipment, restrain students, or attend to personal hygiene needs.
• May accompany students outdoors in inclement weather or teach in classrooms without telephone communication.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Academic preparation or experience teaching diverse student populations in an urban school system, including adapting instructional techniques for special education.
• Additional academic preparation or experience may be required for specific programs (e.g., bilingual education, dropout prevention, behavior change programs).

Licenses/Special Requirements

• Valid Washington State Teaching Certificate with Special Education Endorsement.
• Some positions may require valid first aid and CPR certification.
• Some positions may require a valid Washington State driver’s license or a Class II driver’s license.

Benefits

Seattle Public Schools benefits are administered by the Washington State Healthcare Authority (HCA) under the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB). Eligibility is determined by the number of hours worked during the school year (September 1 through August 31). Employees scheduled to work 630 hours or more in a year are eligible for benefits.

Pay

Refer to the salary schedule associated with this role.