Exceptional Children Teacher

EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN’S TEACHER
Under general supervision, provides special education services to students identified as disabled in accordance with state and federal regulations. Work involves developing and implementing the Individual Education Program in classroom settings that are compatible with the student’s age and developmental level. The EC teacher is responsible for developing lesson plans, adapting materials and designing activities to assist EC students develop appropriate academic, behavioral, and social skills and to meet their IEP goals. The teacher is responsible for monitoring student’s progress and for maintaining EC records in compliance with state and federal guidelines.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Develops and administers state curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives.
• Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
• Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences so as to best utilize the available time for instruction
• Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.
• Instructs students in the principles of responsible citizenship and other subject matters specified in applicable laws, as well as administrative regulations and procedures of the school system.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Ensures that student conduct conforms with the school's standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.
• Coordinates with other school professional staff members, especially within grade level, to evaluate and assess curriculum, and participates in faculty meetings and committees.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.
• Supervises students in activities that take place out of the classroom during the school day, including activities involving school transportation.
• Administers standardized tests in accordance with District testing programs.
• Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develops and implements an instructional plan which is compatible with the school and systemwide curricular goals and the students’ Individual Education Program.
• Is responsible for the development of Individual Education Programs (IEP) for students with disabilities; implements the IEP; and uses diagnostic information obtained from tests and other assessment procedures to update IEPs as needed.
• Provides direct special education instruction to identified students.
• Employs a variety of teaching methods to meet student needs. Implementation of these methods may require the adaptation or development of materials.
• Monitors student behavior; maintains discipline in the classroom; deescalates inappropriate behaviors; teaches students appropriate behavioral strategies; restrains students when necessary; records and reports restrains.
• Assists disabled students with their personal and self-help needs, such as eating, toileting, and other essential tasks that the students are not able to perform by themselves.
• Communicates with parents regarding their children’s educational progress via periodic written progress reports.
• Acts as a case coordinator for assigned students; consults with community care-givers, school support professionals, and parents to better understand and meet student needs.
• Maintains student records in accordance with North Carolina’s Procedures Governing Programs and Services for Children with Disabilities; and complies with state and federal education statutes.

ADDITIONAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Degree in special education, and certification in at least one area of disability as a teacher by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.

Reports to: Principal
FLSA Status: Exempt