Special Education Teacher (Certified)

Primary Purpose:

Provide students with appropriate learning activities and experiences designed to fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth.  Enable students to develop competencies and skills to function successfully at the home campus, in their personal lives and in society.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university
• Texas Teacher Certificate with endorsement in subject and level assigned
• Special Education certificate required if assigned to an Academic and Behavior Center

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• General knowledge of curriculum and instruction
• Ability to communicate effectively orally as well as written expression
• Ability to instruct multiple levels of students
• Ability to work within a specified behavior management system
• Ability to learn and utilize specialized therapeutic restraint techniques to control student behavior when appropriate
• General knowledge of computer systems and software applications
• Experience working with students with special needs and students in at-risk situations

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Instructional Strategies

• Develop and implement plans for the adopted curriculum program (TEKS Resource System) and show written evidence of preparation as required.
• Assess students and prepare lessons that reflect accommodation for individual differences.
• Plan and use appropriate instructional / learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect accommodation for individual needs of students assigned.
• Present the subject matter according to guidelines established by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), board policies, and administrative regulations.
• Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media, consistent with the needs and capabilities of the student groups involved.
• Consistently assess student achievement through formal and informal testing.
• Cooperate with other members of the staff including client districts, in planning and implementing instructional goals, objectives, and methods in accordance with district requirements.
• Plan and supervise purposeful assignments for the educational aide(s) and/or volunteer(s).
• Employ the use of technologies in the teaching/learning process.

Student Growth and Development

• Assist students in analyzing and improving methods and habits of study.
• Assess the accomplishments of students on a regular basis and provide progress reports as required.
• Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned.
• Serve as a positive model that supports the mission of the department and client districts.
• Provide or supervise personal care, medical care, and/or feeding of students as stated in Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

School/Classroom Organization Management

• Create a classroom environment that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interests of students.
• Establish control in the classroom and administer discipline in accordance with board policies and administrative regulations.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Assist in the selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.
• Consult with client districts and outside resource personnel regarding the education, social, medical, and personal needs of students.
• Assist in managing the behavior of students and crisis intervention, including restraining disruptive or dangerous physical behavior as needed.
• Conduct physical student searches.
• Cooperate in safety inspections and safety drill practice activities.

Communication

• Establish and maintain open lines of communication with students and their parents.
• Maintain a professional relationship with all colleagues, students, parents, client representatives and community members.
• Use acceptable communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.
• Maintain the confidentiality of information.
• Treat all staff with dignity, integrity and respect.

Professional Growth and Development Policy Implementation

• Participate in the district/campus staff development program.
• Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible.
• Keep informed of and comply with state, district, and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers.
• Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other required documents in a timely manner.
• Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Salary : $69,250 - $74,864