Special Education Teacher

Primary Purpose :

Provide students with appropriate learning activities and experiences designed 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.

Qualifications :

Education / Certification :

Bachelor’s degree from accredited university

Valid Texas teaching certificate with required endorsements for subject and level assigned

ESL Certification required within six months of employment for elementary and secondary core teachers.

Special Knowledge / Skills :

Knowledge of subjects assigned

General knowledge of curriculum and instruction

Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior

Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience :

At least one year of student teaching or approved internship

Major Responsibilities and Duties :

Instructional Strategies

• Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of district’s curriculum program and show written evidence of preparation as required.
• Prepare lessons that reflect accommodations for differences in student learning styles.
• Present subject matter according to guidelines established by Texas Education Agency, board policies, and administrative regulations.
• Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.
• Conduct assessment of student learning styles and use results to plan instructional activities.
• Work cooperatively with special education teachers to modify curricula as needed for special education students according to guidelines established in Individual Education Plans (IEP).
• Work with other members of staff to determine instructional goals, objectives, and methods according to district requirements.
• Plan and supervise assignments of teacher aide(s) and volunteer(s).
• Use technology to strengthen the teaching / learning process.

Student Growth and Development

• Help students analyze and improve study methods and habits.
• Conduct ongoing assessment of student achievement through formal and informal testing.
• Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by the campus principal.
• Be a positive role model for students, support mission of school district.

Classroom Management and Organization

• Create classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.
• Manage student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Assist in selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.

Communication

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

Professional Growth and Development

Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.

Other

• 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 documents required.
• Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

Supervisory Responsibilities :

Supervise assigned teacher aide(s).

Working Conditions :

Mental Demands / Physical Demands / Environmental Factors :

Tools / Equipment Used : Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals

Posture : Prolonged sitting; occasional bending / stooping, pushing / pulling, and twisting

Motion : Repetitive hand motions including frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching

Lifting : Occasional light lifting and carrying

Environment : May work prolonged or irregular hours ; occasional districtwide travel

Mental Demands : Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress

Occasional districtwide and statewide travel; frequent prolonged and irregular hours.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.