Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher

The Wilkinsburg School District is a small, urban public school district serving approximately 500 students. The district operates two elementary schools, offering education from Pre-Kindergarten through Sixth Grade. Through an educational partnership, students in grades 7–12 attend Pittsburgh Public Schools, gaining access to expanded academic programs, extracurricular activities, and support services.

The Wilkinsburg School District is dedicated to advancing academic excellence and promoting the social and emotional well-being of all its students.

Position Overview

The Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing individualized instruction and support to students with diverse learning, behavioral, and developmental needs. This role involves developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), adapting the curriculum, fostering student independence, and collaborating with families and multidisciplinary teams to ensure student success throughout the school day.

This position serves as part of the District's special education team, ensuring compliance with Pennsylvania (Chapters 14, 15, and 16) and federal (IDEA and Section 504) regulations, while meeting the needs of our most vulnerable students and empowering families. The Special Education Teacher is committed to promoting educational equity by ensuring all students have access to meaningful learning opportunities and support. In addition, this role serves as a resource and guide for families, faculty, and staff, providing expertise, guidance, and strategies to support students' academic, social, and emotional growth.

The Special Education teacher is a member of the Wilkinsburg Education Association (WEA) and is subject to the conditions of employment as outlined in the negotiated contract. The position reports directly to the Principal in collaboration with the Director of Special Education and Special Services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Instruction and Curriculum Development

a. Design and implement individualized instructional strategies aligned with each student's IEP.

b. Deliver instruction using a variety of evidence-based teaching methods (e.g., multi-sensory techniques, differentiated instruction) to meet diverse learning needs.

c. Adapt and modify curriculum materials and instructional approaches based on students' instructional levels.

d. Plan and implement lessons aligned with approved programmatic resources, with clear, measurable objectives.

e. Provide opportunities for students to engage in a variety of instructional techniques and learning experiences.

f. Provide virtual or remote instruction as needed to support continuity of learning Updated: March 2026 g. Promote student independence, self-sufficiency, and social-emotional growth.

h. Support the development of positive, pro-social behaviors in both individual and group settings.

2. IEP Development, Data Collection, and Progress Monitoring

a. Collaborate with families, administrators, school psychologists, and other team members to develop and implement IEPs.

b. Collect and analyze data on student performance, behavior, and progress toward IEP goals.

c. Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation and progress monitoring in compliance with requirements.

d. Regularly assess and adjust instructional strategies based on student data and progress.

3. Classroom Management and Supervision

a. Establish and maintain an organized classroom environment with effective behavior management systems in alignment with the school's PBIS initiative.

b. Implement individualized and group reinforcement strategies to support student success.

c. Oversee and support paraprofessionals, ensuring adherence to best practices and school policies.

4. Collaboration and Communication

a. Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and educational priorities.

b. Work collaboratively with general education teachers and staff to support inclusive practices.

c. Lead IEP meetings and multidisciplinary team discussions.

d. Demonstrate professionalism, ethical conduct, and strong moral character at all times.

5. Perform additional duties as assigned by the building principal, Director of Special Education and Special Services, and/or the Superintendent.

Education and Experience

1. Bachelor's degree in Special Education, Education is required; Master's degree in Special Education or related field preferred; a valid Pennsylvania Special Education teaching certification or a related teaching certification is required.

2. Demonstrated knowledge of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), special education laws (IDEA, Section 504), and applicable Pennsylvania regulations.

3. Experience working with students with diverse learning, behavioral, social-emotional, and developmental needs.

4. Knowledge of trauma-informed practices, positive behavioral interventions, and evidence-based instructional strategies for students with disabilities.

5. Experience collaborating with school personnel, families, and community agencies to support student growth and success.

6. Ability to obtain and maintain all required clearances in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.

7. Additional qualifications and/or skills as determined by the Board of School Directors/Superintendent