Middle School Special Education Teacher

Job Title: Special Education Resource Teacher: Secondary Math

Job Summary:

The Special Education Resource Teacher will play a crucial role in supporting students with special needs to achieve academic success and personal growth. Provide individualized instruction, accommodations, and support services to students identified with diverse learning needs while focusing on implementing evidence-based strategies to address students' unique learning challenges and ensure their inclusion in the general education curriculum.

Responsibilities:

• Individualized Instruction and Support:

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with special needs, in collaboration with parents, general education teachers, and other support staff.
• Provide direct instruction and support to students in various academic subjects and learning environments, adapting teaching methods and materials to meet individual learning styles and needs.
• Utilize specialized instructional techniques, assistive technology, and accommodations to facilitate student access to the curriculum.
• Monitor student progress through ongoing assessment and data collection, and adjust instruction and interventions as needed.

• Collaboration and Consultation:

• Collaborate with general education teachers to ensure the successful inclusion of students with special needs in the general education classroom.
• Consult with other members of the IEP team, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and behavioral specialists, to coordinate services and support for students.
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians to provide updates on student progress, discuss concerns, and solicit input regarding their child's educational needs.
• Participate in team meetings, professional development activities, and staff trainings related to special education practices and procedures.

• Behavior Management and Social Skills Development:

• Implement positive behavior support strategies to address challenging behaviors and promote social-emotional development.
• Teach social skills and self-regulation techniques to students with special needs, both individually and in small groups.
• Collaborate with school counselors and psychologists to develop and implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) for students with significant behavior challenges.

• Record Keeping and Documentation:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student progress, IEP goals, and service delivery in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Complete required paperwork, including IEPs, progress reports, and eligibility documentation, in a timely and thorough manner.
• Prepare for and participate in special education eligibility meetings, reevaluation meetings, and other related processes as needed.

• Professional Development and Growth:

• Stay current on best practices, research findings, and legal requirements related to special education through ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Seek out opportunities for collaboration and peer learning with other special education professionals within the district and beyond.
• Reflect on your own practice and seek feedback from colleagues and supervisors to continuously improve your effectiveness as a special education resource teacher.

Qualifications:

• Valid Arkansas teaching license with special education endorsement
• Bachelor's degree in Education, Special Education, or a related field
• Knowledge of special education laws and regulations, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Arkansas Department of Education guidelines.
• Experience working with students with diverse learning needs, preferably in a school setting.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to advocating for the needs of students with disabilities.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team and build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.

Physical Demands

• Frequent travel to school district offices and classrooms
• Frequent walking throughout various buildings
• Standing for extended periods of time
• Moderate lifting and carrying from 15 to 30 pounds
• Manual dexterity to use equipment

Evaluation Criteria

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the Board of Education policy on evaluation of Certified Personnel.