Special Education Teacher - Middle School

Special Education Teacher

Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students' specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Essential Functions:

• Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.
• Participates in PPT's and assists in developing Individual Educational Plans ("IEP") for students.
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
• Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with social work services.
• Serves as ready resource to students and parents to provide counseling that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as liaison between home and school.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing student information to prospective colleges and employers, as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensure effective communication with students and parents.
• Assists in the orientation of new teachers, and provides in-service training in guidance.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.
• Develop lesson plans utilizing the NIET Best Practice Instructional Rubric to ensure effective instruction and participate in Cluster professional development in order to grow as a professional educator.

Equipment:

• Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travel Requirements:

• Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Pay Rates:

• PEA certified position.

Work Schedule:

• Standard teacher work schedule as set forth in the Teacher's Contract.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards:

• Physical Requirement Percentage of Time:
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time. Very Frequent
• Ability to lift 25 pounds. Seldom
• Ability to carry 25 pounds. Occasional
• Ability to work at a desk, conference table or in meetings of various configurations. Very Frequent
• Ability to see for the purpose of reading laws and codes, rules and policies and other printed matter. Very Frequent
• Ability to communicate so others will be able to clearly understand a normal conversation. Very Frequent
• Ability to operate job-related equipment. Very Frequent
• Ability to reach in all directions. Very Frequent

License/ Registration/ Certification:

• Indiana Certification as a Special Education Teacher.
• Indiana Teaching License in discipline applicable to teaching assignment.

Education:

• BA degree in Special Education.

Experience:

• Previous experience is preferred.

FLSA Status: Exempt