Dyslexia Specialist (SY 26-27)

Dyslexia Instruction Specialist

Provide instruction to special education students identified with dyslexia in alignment with the required components of the Texas Dyslexia Handbook, delivering systematic, explicit, and evidence-based reading interventions with fidelity. Support the identification, evaluation, and ARD/IEP process by collaborating with staff, developing individualized plans and goals, and using data to monitor progress and inform instruction.

Qualifications

Education / Certification:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university

Valid Texas teaching certificate with required endorsements for level assigned

Masters Degree in education or related field preferred

Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) or specialized training in dyslexia

SPED EC-12 required

Special Knowledge and Skills:

Knowledge of dyslexia and reading process

Trained in instructional strategies which utilize individualized, intensive, multisensory, phonetic methods (Take Flight, Reading by Design)

Knowledge of student progress monitoring methods

Ability to instruct students and manage behavior

Strong organizational, communication and interpersonal skills

Knowledge of Special Education processes

Knowledge of how to analyze and interpret assessment results

Experience:

At least one-year student teaching or approved internship

Major Responsibilities and Duties

Instructional Strategies:

• Collaborate with students, parents, and other members of staff to develop IEP through the ARD Committee process for each student assigned.
• Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of the district's curriculum program and demonstrate written evidence of preparation, as required.
• Implement an instructional, therapeutic, or skill development program for assigned students and show written evidence of preparation as required.
• Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.
• Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula as needed and assist special education students in regular classes with assignments.
• Participate in ARD Committee meetings on a regular basis.
• Conduct assessment of student learning styles and use results to plan for instructional activities.
• Present subject matter according to guidelines established by IEP, as well as TEA guidelines, Board policies and administration regulation.
• Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media to meet the needs and capabilities of each student assigned.
• Use technology to strengthen teaching/learning process.

Classroom Management and Organization:

• Create classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.
• Consult with classroom teachers regarding management of student behavior according to IEP.
• Consult district and outside resource people regarding education, social, medical, and personal needs of students.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Assist in selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials

Communication:

• Establish and maintain open lines of communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals, and teachers.
• Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents, and community members.
• Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.

Professional Growth and Development:

• Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, students, and parents.

Other:

• Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.
• Understand and comply with federal, state, district, and school regulations and policies for special education teachers.
• Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other required documents in a timely manner.
• Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

Working Conditions

Mental Demands:

Ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written)

Ability to operate and learn new technology systems

Maintain emotional control under stress

Physical Demands/Environment Factors:

Prolonged use of computer

Exposure to computer emissions

Move small stacks of textbooks, media equipment, desks, and other classroom or adaptive equipment.

May be required to lift and position students with physical disabilities

Other:

Work as a team member and with peers, teachers, campus personnel and principals. Professional demeanor, and resourcefulness communicate effectively with diverse groups and accept supervision.

Evaluation:

This position will be evaluated in accordance with Community Independent School District Policy DBN(LEGAL).