Special Education Teacher

Job Title: Special Education Teacher Exemption Status/Test: Exempt/Professional Reports to: Assigned Campus Primary Purpose: Provide special education students with learning activities and experiences designed to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Develop or modify curricula and prepare lessons and other instructional materials to match student ability levels.

Work in self-contained, team, departmental, or itinerant capacity as assigned.

Qualifications

Education/Certification: Bachelor's degree from accredited university Valid Texas teaching certificate with required endorsements or related training and work experience for certification waivers under the District of Innovation Plan (DOI) Demonstrated competency in the core academic subject area assigned [Physical Education Teachers: Current automated external defibrillator (AED) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certificate] Special Knowledge/Skills: Knowledge of special needs of students in assigned area Knowledge of Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee process and Individual Education Plan (IEP) goal setting process and implementation Knowledge of how to adapt curriculum and instruction for special needs Effective communication skills Experience: Student teaching, approved internship, or related work experience Major Responsibilities and Duties: Instructional Strategies Collaborate with students, parents, and other members of staff to develop IEP through the ARD Committee process for each student assigned.

Implement an instructional, therapeutic, or skill development program for assigned students and show written evidence of preparation as required. Conduct assessment of student learning styles. Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.

Present subject matter effectively and according to guidelines established by IEP. Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media including technology to meet the needs and capabilities of each student assigned. Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula as needed and assist special education students in regular classes with assignments.

Participate in ARD Committee meetings on a regular basis. Participate in selection of books, equipment, and other instructional media. Student Growth and Development Conduct ongoing assessments of student achievement through formal and informal testing. Provide or supervise personal care, medical care, and feeding of students as stated in IEP.

Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by campus principal. Consult district and outside resource people regarding education, social, medical, and personal needs of students. Classroom Management and Organization Create classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.

Manage student behavior and administer discipline including intervening in crisis situations and physically restraining students as necessary according to IEP. Consult with classroom teachers regarding management of student behavior according to IEP. Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.

Plan and assign the work of teacher aide(s) and volunteer(s) and oversee completion. Other Establish and maintain open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals, and teachers. Maintain professional relationships with parents, students, and colleagues. Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.

Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, district, and school regulations and policies for special education teachers. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required. Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required. Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Direct the work of instructional aide(s). Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: Tools/Equipment Used : Personal computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment; [P.E. teachers: automated external defibrillator (AED)] Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting Motion: Frequent walking Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may lift and move textbooks and classroom equipment Environment: Work inside, may work outside; regular exposure to noise Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.