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.
• 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.