What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Instructor position at Atlantis Academy?
Welcome to Atlantis Academy, a dynamic organization with a social mission to offer hope. We are seeking a dedicated Special Education Teacher to join our award-winning team and perform meaningful work in a culture that welcomes innovation, encourages creative expression, and offers limitless potential for personal and professional satisfaction.
The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, goal-oriented, outcome-driven environment, seek a career with genuine purpose, and possess a problem-solving mindset, a sense of humor, and a stellar work ethic. As a Special Education Teacher, you will plan, prepare, and implement the instructional process for Secondary Education students with disabilities within the classroom, including delivery of instruction, implementation of curriculum materials and educational software, and development of daily lesson plans and classroom schedules.
Responsibilities Include:
Providing a collaborative environment for students, parents, and administrative personnel.
Establishing a climate that promotes a firm, fair, and respectful classroom environment with a focus on social development and group responsibility by modeling and reinforcing positive behaviors as outlined in Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program for the school and classroom.
Implementing established school-wide and classroom PBIS programs, reinforcement systems, behavioral expectations, and consequence guidelines.
Recording student progress/records, maintaining student files, and preparing reports on students and activities.
Providing direct subject-based instruction and/or working in a team environment to collaboratively and/or co-teach curricular subjects.
Modifying curriculum and assisting with differentiated instruction for students.
Using a variety of instructional strategies and resources to respond to the diverse needs and interests of students; including prescribed educational software and intervention curriculum.
Preparing daily lesson plans and materials for assigned class.
Reporting incidents (e.g. fights, suspected child abuse, suspected substance abuse, etc.) in order to maintain the personal safety of students and adhere to State and Federal law.
Maintaining the classroom, furniture, and supplies in a neat and orderly condition according to procedure.
Keeping up to date with research-based practices and developments in subject area.
Responding constructively to formal and informal feedback.
Performing other duties as assigned.
Qualifications Required:
- Bachelor's degree or higher in education or a closely related field.
- Licensed currently, or in the process of obtaining a special education credential preferred.
- Prior experience and highly knowledgeable in curriculum development, differentiation, and instruction in a classroom setting.
- Prior experience and/or knowledge in special education services and compliance, particularly for students with autism-related disabilities and emotional disturbance.
- Prior experience teaching in a secondary education setting with a specialty in ELA preferred.
- Advanced oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem-solving, and decision-making ability.
- Proven ability to effectively prioritize tasks and meet deadlines while maintaining organization and attention to detail.
- Proficiency in providing motivation and having critical conversations with students that help move them toward realistic goals and next steps.
- Knowledge of relevant technology, including experience with instructional technology, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry, and basic office equipment.
