POSITION TITLE: Special Education Teacher EXEMPTION STATUS: ExemptREPORTS TO: PrincipalTERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: As assigned per contractPrimary PurposeProvide for the instructional and physical needs of students with disabilities, primarily in the general education setting and in the special education setting. Provide students with appropriate learning activities and experiences to help fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Implement classroom programs for instruction, self-help and behavior management. Enable students to develop competencies and skills to function successfully in society.Minimum Qualifications:Education/CertificationBachelor's Degree from accredited universityValid Texas teaching certificate with endorsements or required training for subject/level assignedSpecial Knowledge/SkillsKnowledge of core academic subject assignedGeneral knowledge of curriculum and instructionAbility to instruct students and manage their behaviorStrong organizational, communication (verbal and written), and interpersonal skillsExperienceClinical teaching or approved internshipMajor Responsibilities and DutiesInstructional Strategies
- Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of district curriculum and show written evidence of preparation as required. Prepare lessons that reflect accommodations for differences in student learning styles.
- Teach the TEKS/SE as set by the Texas Education Agency and district curriculum, and present curriculum in accordance with guidelines, policy, and regulations.
- Employ a variety of instructional techniques consistent with the needs and capabilities of students and incorporate technology in the teaching and learning process
- Collaborate with other staff in planning and implementing instructional goals, objectives, and methods in accordance with district requirements.
- Analyze and disaggregate data to assist in meeting the academic needs of students.
- Plan and supervise purposeful assignments for instructional aides and/or volunteers.
Student Growth and Development
- Assist students in analyzing and improving methods and habits of study.
- Assure student success as determined by the state and district curriculum and assessments.
- Assess the accomplishments of students on a regular basis and provide progress reports as required.
- Learn and adapt to each student's special academic, medical, physical, communicative, and emotional need and assist students according to individual needs for instruction; physical needs such as transferring to and from wheelchair, lifting, positioning; personal care needs including feeding, toileting, and personal hygiene; signing; and other needs as presented by the ARD committee.
Classroom Management and Organization
- Create a learning environment that is appropriate to students' maturity and interests.
- Manage student behavior in accordance with policies and the Student Code of Conduct, including intervening in crisis situations and restraining dangerous student behavior as needed.
- Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, material, and facilities.
- Assist in the selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.
- Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required in a timely manner.
Communication
- Establish and maintain open lines of communication and maintain a professional relationship with students, parents, colleagues, supervisors and community members.
- Use acceptable communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.
- Adhere to the district organizational chart in communication with all constituents.
- Present for students a positive role model that supports the mission of the district and demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible as set out in the Educator Code of Ethics.
Professional Growth and Development
- Participate in professional learning activities to improve job-related skills and demonstrate interest and initiative in professional improvement.
- Keep informed of and comply with legal and local polices, regulations and procedures.
- Attend and participate in staff meetings and serve on committees as assigned.
Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environment Factors
- Tools/Equipment Used: Standard classroom equipment, computer, peripherals, electronic devices
- Posture: Prolonged sitting/standing, frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, twisting
- Motion: Frequent walking; frequent repetitive hand motions, keyboarding, use of mouse, wrist flexion/extension
- Lifting: Lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds without assistance, 30-55 pounds with assistance, and more than 55 pounds with appropriate assistance
- Environment: Work inside and outside; regular exposure to noise; occasional exposure to contagious diseases
- Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work with frequent interruption; work prolonged or irregular hours