Special Education Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Position Purpose

The Special Education Teacher supports assigned classroom staff to provide specialized instruction to students with disabilities in accordance with their Individualized Education Plan (IEPs)/Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP). The teacher develops and implements instructional strategies that support academic, social, emotional, and behavioral growth while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop interim plans for children being referred to early intervention and/or the Local Education Agency.
• Support classroom staff to implement and monitor Individualized Education Plans (IEP)/Individual Family Service Plan IFSP) in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
• Provide direct instruction in academic, behavioral, social, and life skills areas based on student needs.
• Conduct assessments and use data to develop measurable annual goals and progress reports.
• Modify curriculum and adapt instructional materials to meet diverse learning needs.
• Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusion and differentiated instruction.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
• Participate in ARD/IEP meetings and communicate effectively with parents, guardians, and service providers.
• Implement classroom management strategies and positive behavior supports.
• Coordinate related services (speech, occupational therapy, counseling, etc.) as required.
• Ensure a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment.
• Monitor and report student progress toward IEP/IFSP goals.
• Comply with district policies, state regulations, and special education timelines.
• Maintain compliance with the Head Start Program Performance Standards.
• Ensure confidentiality of student information in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Communication

• Communicate effectively and respectfully with children, families, and staff.
• Provide clear explanations of IEP/IFSP goals, progress, and strategies to families.
• Maintain timely and accurate written documentation, reports, and correspondence.

Staff Relationship

• Collaborate effectively with classroom teachers, teacher assistants, family advocates, and support staff.
• Foster a respectful, team-oriented work environment.
• Provide coaching and guidance on implementing accommodation and behavior supports

General Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of early childhood development (birth–age 5).
• Understanding of inclusion practices in preschool environments.
• Ability to design developmentally appropriate, individualized instruction.
• Strong collaboration skills with families and multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of behavior intervention strategies appropriate for young children.
• Ability to maintain detailed documentation and meet compliance timelines.
• Cultural responsiveness and commitment to family-centered practices.
• Communicate effectively with diverse groups both verbally and in writing.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in special education, Early Childhood Special Education, or related field (Master's preferred).
• Valid state certification in Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) or Special Education.
• Experienced working with preschool-aged children with disabilities preferred.
• Knowledge of early childhood assessment tools and IEP development.