Special Education LIFE Teacher () - Townsell ES

IRVING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER

JOB DESCRIPTION

PRIMARY PURPOSE :

Provide special education students with appropriate learning activities and experiences in the most appropriate environment designed to fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth;

develop / modify curricula and prepare lessons and teacher instructional materials according to ability levels; work in self-contained, team, departmental, or itinerant capacity as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS :

Minimum Education / Certification :

• Bachelor's Degree
• Valid Texas Teacher's Certificate with appropriate endorsement for teaching area

Special Knowledge / Skills :

• Ability to develop IEP and participate in ARD process;
• Knowledge of curriculum;
• Knowledge of special needs of students;
• Knowledge of policies and practices addressing specific duties and responsibilities of assigned position, i.e. Lead Special Education Teacher, Teacher of the Visually Impaired, Adaptive Physical Education Teacher.

Minimum Experience :

At least one (1) year of student teaching or approved internship

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES :

Instructional Strategies :

• Collaborate with parents and staff in the development of IEPs.
• Develop and implement social and academic programs according to IEPs.
• Prepare for classes assigned and show evidence of preparation.

Student Growth and Development :

• Consistently assess student progress through formal / informal testing.
• Consistently assess and modify classroom environment to maximize student success.
• Present positive role model for students that supports the mission of the school district.
• Provide or seek sources to aid students in dealing with emotional / physical needs that must be met before learning can take place.
• Provide positive and successful opportunities for students to develop positive self-esteem.
• Provide or supervise personal care or medical care of students as stated in IEP.
• Assist special needs students with individual tasks as may be required including, but not limited to :
• transferring to and from wheelchairs
• lifting, positioning
• feeding
• bathroom needs
• personal hygiene
• self-help
• behavior management
• other personal care needs

Classroom Management and Organization :

• Create a safe and positive classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development of the students.
• Manage student behavior and administer discipline according to IEP.
• Take necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Assist in selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.
• Plan and supervise activities for teacher aide(s) and / or volunteer(s).

Communication :

• Communicate effectively and professionally with students, parents, personnel from community agencies, and other professional staff in the education, care, and management of students.
• Provide on-going training, consultation, and support to school personnel.
• Create positive team approach to inclusive educational settings.

Professional Growth and Development :

• Participate in in-district in-service training.
• Demonstrate interest in professional improvement.

Policy Implementation :

• Keep informed of, and comply with, all campus, district, state, and federal policies and regulations.
• Complete and maintain all reports, records, and documents.
• Attend and participate in faculty / staff meetings and serve on committees as required.
• Adhere to the Professional Code of Ethics.

WORKING