Job Summary:
The Special Education Teacher will design, implement, and assess instruction that aligns with the district’s mission, philosophy, and educational objectives. This role involves developing students’ skills and creating engaging opportunities. The Special Education Teacher provides individualized and small-group instruction to students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the support needed to succeed in a general education setting. This educator develops and implements Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborates with general education teachers and support staff, and adapts curriculum materials to meet diverse learning needs.
Essential Functions (May include, but not limited to):
- Design and implement engaging, individualized instruction for students in one on one, small group, and resource room settings.
- Utilize evidence-based teaching strategies to support diverse learning needs and maximize student success.
- Conduct assessments to evaluate students’ cognitive abilities and identify areas of strength and need.
- Continuously monitor and analyze student progress, providing detailed reports that guide instructional planning.
- Keep organized, up to date records of student assessments, progress, interventions, and services provided.
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and district policies related to special education
- Recommend and implement modifications to students’ learning environments to support their academic and social-emotional development.
- Collaborate with general education teachers to ensure students receive necessary accommodations and support.
- Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement effective Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Actively participate in child study and team planning processes to design appropriate educational supports.
- Provide guidance, supervision, and training to paraprofessionals and volunteers working with students.
- Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel supported and valued.
- Observe and evaluate instructional techniques to ensure best practices are being implemented.
- Adapt curriculum materials and teaching strategies to accommodate different learning styles and needs.
- Utilize positive behavior management techniques to promote a structured and supportive learning environment.
- Develop and implement individualized behavior intervention plans when necessary.
- Act as a consultant to teachers’ parents, and students, providing expert guidance on strategies and resources that support student success.
- Identify and connect students with additional resources and services as needed.
- Attend Multi-Disciplinary Evaluation Team (MET) and Individualized Education Planning Team (IEPT) meetings to advocate for students needs.
- Engage in ongoing professional development to stay informed about best practices and current trends in special education.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
The information contained in this job description is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Other duties within the classification and the physical demands of the job may be assigned.
Qualifications:
Education: Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate required. Special Education endorsement required.
Skills: Ability to work cooperatively on a teaching team. Knowledge of disabilities and their educational implications. Understanding the roles and organizational structures of general and special education, and the role they play in providing total service for the student. Knowledge of learning theory and child development appropriate for the various disabilities. Knowledge of general education and special education state and federal laws, rules, and regulations. Understanding of due process and date privacy requirements.
