Behavioral Specialist

SpecialistSpecial Education ProgramProvides technical assistance and support in the area of Special Education programming. Promotes quality and compliance of programs and services to improve student achievement.The essential functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the characteristic duties and responsibilities noted herein, however, this list represents examples only, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions found in this job description.Model KISD core organizational beliefs and values; perform duties effectively and efficiently for the purpose of supporting and contributing to high student achievement.Provide program support and service delivery; communicate effectively within and across teams and participate in cross-functional work groups.Maintain a commitment to the District mission; model District expectations through personal leadership and actively support the efforts of others to achieve District goals.Major Responsibilities and DutiesInstructional StrategiesCollaborate with students, parents, and other members of staff to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) through the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee process for each student assigned.Implement an instructional, therapeutic, or skill development program for assigned students and show written evidence of preparation as required. Prepare lessons that reflect accommodations for individual student differences.Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, equipment, and technology that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned and present subject matter according to guidelines established by the Texas Education Agency, Board Policies, and Administrative Regulations.Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula as needed for students identified.Work with other members of staff to determine instructional goals, objectives, and methods according to District requirements.Participate in ARD Committee meetings on a regular basis.Participate in selection of equipment and other instructional media.Student Growth and DevelopmentConsult District and outside resource individuals regarding education, social, medical, and personal needs of students.Be a positive role model for students.Classroom Management and OrganizationCreate a 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 selecting books, equipment, and other instructional materials.Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required.CommunicationEstablish and maintain a professional relationship and open communication with parents, students, colleagues, and community members.Professional Growth and DevelopmentParticipate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.Comply with State, District, and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers.Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.OtherMaintain confidentiality.Develop and maintain systems for retrieval of information in support of all programs; compile, maintain, file, and secure all physical and computerized reports, records, and other required documents.Pursue Professional Development activities for self and assigned staff; ensure that Professional Development activities are aligned with District goals and initiatives and current professional research.Comply with all policies, operating procedures, legal requirements, and verbal and written directives.Comply with the Professional Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators.Follow District safety protocols and emergency procedures.Perform other related duties as assigned.QualificationsEducation/Certification:Bachelor's degree from an accredited universityValid Texas Special Education Teacher CertificationValid Texas Teaching Certificate with required endorsementsMaster's degree (preferred)Experience:Three (3) years successful Special Education teaching or related services field experience.Special Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:Knowledge of reading, writing, and spelling instructional strategiesKnowledge of Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee process and Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goal setting process and implementationAbility to analyze, interpret, and use student dataAbility to instruct students and manage their behaviorStrong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skillsSupervisory Responsibilities:NoneMental/Physical Demands and Environmental Factors:Tools/Equipment Used:Personal computer, phone systems, video/instructional equipment, and peripheralsPosture:Prolonged sitting and standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twistingMotion:Frequent walking; repetitive computer work with frequent use of hands and wristsLifting:Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 30 pounds); may lift and move textbooks and classroom equipmentEnvironment:Work to be completed on-site from assigned school or building; regular exposure to noise and computer monitorsNo remote workFrequent districtwide travel; occasional statewide travelMental Demands:Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hoursIntent and Acknowledgement:This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty required of positions given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit, or any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.