Middle School Special Education Teacher

Certified General Education/Special Education Teacher

The effective and successful general education/special education teacher is responsible for creating and delivering high-quality, engaging instruction to all students, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment that promotes academic and personal growth. This role involves developing and implementing weekly lesson plans that align with the adopted district curriculum and state standards; assessing and monitoring student progress; managing classroom behavior; and communicating with parents and colleagues. The regular education/special education teacher strives to inspire a love for learning and equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for academic success.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in education.
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator Licensure with the appropriate endorsement may be required based on content and grade level assignment.
• Displays proficiency in Microsoft Office applications: Word, PowerPoint, and Google platforms for communications.
• Demonstrates enthusiasm when teaching and communicating with students.
• Presents a positive, professional, and ethical image to students, parents, and staff.
• Demonstrates the ability to serve as an educational advocate for students.
• Uses clear/concise oral and written communications; interpersonal skills; and provides information using a multisensory approach.
• Demonstrates leadership skills in working with individuals and groups.
• Health examination for new employees part-time or full-time: Chapter 122 Article 24-5 of Illinois School Code mandates that School boards shall require of new employees evidence of physical fitness to perform duties assigned and freedom from communicable disease, including tuberculosis. Such evidence shall consist of a physical examination and a tuberculin test and, if appropriate, an x-ray. The cost of such examination shall rest with the employee.
• Must pass a comprehensive drug screening.
• Must pass a comprehensive criminal background check.
• Must be able to lift or move at least 25 lbs.

Performance Responsibilities:

• Plans for quality, engaging instruction utilizing various methods of delivery, including direct instruction, differentiation of instruction, modeling, student-led discussions, independent practice, hands-on activities, projects, and technology integration to address the diverse learning needs of students.
• Uses district-approved curriculum.
• Assesses and monitors student progress through tests, quizzes, assignments, and demonstrations.
• Creates and maintains a positive and safe environment conducive to teaching and learning.
• Demonstrates effective classroom management skills; establishes and enforces classroom rules and procedures.
• Manages student behavior and timely addresses all disciplinary issues.
• Supervises students in classrooms, hallways, cafeteria, assemblies, and during field trips and extracurricular activities.
• Displays patience and tolerance when working with all students.
• Demonstrates firmness and fairness with supervision and discipline of students.
• Provides timely constructive feedback to students and parents.
• Demonstrates a collaborative and professional work ethic.
• Maintains accurate records of student performance, grades, and attendance.
• Maximizes instructional time and provides continuity of instruction.
• Participates in open houses, parent-teacher conferences, staff meetings, school-sponsored activities/events, and student/parent consultation.
• Collaborates with colleagues to improve instructional practices and strategies.
• Stays current with educational trends, studies, and best practices.
• Performs as an integral member of the educational team.
• Participates in professional development workshops and training sessions to enhance professional growth and instructional skills.
• Demonstrates a strong knowledge of subject matter and pedagogy.
• Displays patience, empathy, and a passion for teaching regular education and special education students.
• Implements student individualized education plans, 504 plans, and behavior plans.
• The Special Education teacher writes and implements a student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP); develops behavior plans, participates in IEP meetings, and conducts annual reviews.
• Demonstrates skills and effectiveness in working with diverse populations.
• Adaptable, innovative thinker with an enthusiastic, energetic, positive attitude.
• Adheres to Board Policy, administrative rules, and regulations.
• Reports to work daily and arrives on time.
• Takes responsibility as a mandated reporter.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Terms of Employment:

Certified 10-month employee.

Evaluation:

Evaluated by the Principal or Designee in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Salary:

Compensation is based on years of experience and the Teacher Salary Schedule in accordance with the CBA.