Certified Special Education Teacher

Provide students with appropriate learning activities and experiences in the core academic subject area assigned to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Enable students to develop competencies and skills to function successfully in society.  Develop or modify curricula and prepare lessons and other instructional materials to student ability levels. Work in self-contained, inclusion, departmental, or itinerant capacity as assigned.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Instructional Strategies
1. Collaborate with students, parents, and other members of staff to develop IEP through the ARD Committee process for each  

    student assigned.
2. Implement an instructional, therapeutic, or skill development program for assigned students and show written evidence of

    preparation as required.
3. Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect an understanding of

    the learning styles and needs of students assigned.
4. Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula as needed and assist special education students in regular classes with assignments.

1. Participate in ARD Committee meetings on a regular basis.
   6. Conduct an assessment of student learning styles and use results to plan for instructional activities.
   7. Present subject matter according to guidelines established by IEP.
   8. Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media to meet the needs and capabilities of each student assigned.
   9. Plan and supervise assignments for teacher aide(s) and volunteer(s).
   10. Use technology in the teaching/learning process.
2. Prepare documentation as required for BIP’s/Ard’s/Medicare Documentation
3. Monitor, evaluate and document each student's progress utilizing appropriate measurements and assessment devices
4. Take care of students' needs including helping with any physical limitations a student might have.
5. Prepare timely progress reports for each student
6. Review referral data, history, and assessment data to develop appropriate goals and objectives for each student
7. Confer with general education teachers regarding the educational, social, emotional, and physical needs and objectives of each

      student. Modify and adapt conventional educational programs and curricula to meet the requirements of special needs students

1. Review IEPs with parents, school administrators, and general education teachers
2. Maintain regular communication with parents by means of email, phone calls, conferences, and progress reports
3. Assist parents with understanding and supporting educational objectives, learning expectations, and behavioral standards
4. Prepare special needs students for inclusion and transition to mainstream
5. Maintain current knowledge of special education best practices and trends
6. Teach personal development skills such as goal setting, independence, and self-advocacy.
7. Develop and implement strategies to meet the needs of students with a variety of handicapping conditions.

Student Growth and Development
24. Conduct ongoing assessments of student achievement through formal and informal testing.
25. Provide or supervise personal care, medical care, and feeding of students as stated in IEP.
26. Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by the campus principal.
27. Be a positive role model for students; support the mission of the school district.

Classroom Management and Organization
28. Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of

      students.
29. Manage student behavior and administer discipline. This includes intervening in crisis situations and physically restraining

      students as necessary according to IEP.
30. Consult with classroom teachers regarding the management of student behavior according to IEP.
31. Consult district and outside resource people regarding the education, social, medical, and personal needs of students.
32. Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
33. Assist in the selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.21. Administer medication and react in emergencies

      according to individual educational needs.

1. Be able to lift or move medically fragile students and assist them with any physical limitations.
2. You must be physically able to squat, get up and down off the floor, walk long distances, and react quickly.
3. Establish and maintain paraprofessional assignments specific to students.

Communication
38. Establish and maintain open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals, and teachers.
39. Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents, and community members.
40. Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.

Other
41. Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.
42. Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, district, and school regulations and policies for special education teachers.
43. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required.
44. Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

1. 45. Maintain first aid and CPR certification.

EXPERIENCE: At least one year of student teaching or approved internship.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
Valid Texas teaching certificate with required special education endorsements for assignments

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
General knowledge general education and modified curriculum and instruction