Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher

Under the general supervision of the principal, the Special Education Teacher provides specially designed instruction to students with disabilities in accordance with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This position ensures compliance with federal and state laws, implements district-approved curriculum, monitors student progress, and provides a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment that maximizes academic, behavioral, and functional outcomes.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provides specially designed instruction aligned to students' IEP goals in academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and functional skill areas.
• Develops, drafts, and implements IEPs in compliance with IDEA, Georgia Department of Education regulations, and district procedures.
• Conducts and interprets ongoing progress monitoring to document student growth and inform instructional decisions.
• Implements behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and supports Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) as appropriate.
• Differentiates instruction and accommodations to ensure access to the general education curriculum.
• Collaborates with general education teachers to ensure appropriate inclusion, accommodations, and modifications.
• Maintains accurate, timely, and legally compliant documentation, including IEP progress reports, service logs, and eligibility documentation.
• Participates in eligibility meetings, annual reviews, reevaluations, manifestation determinations, and other required special education meetings.
• Communicates effectively with parents/guardians regarding student progress and services.
• Maintains confidentiality of student records in accordance with FERPA and district policy.
• Utilizes district data systems to monitor student performance and instructional effectiveness.
• Supports students in developing independence, self-advocacy, and appropriate social skills.

Note: The above description is illustrative of typical duties and responsibilities and is not intended to be all-inclusive.

Additional Duties:

• Supervises and collaborates with paraprofessionals assigned to the classroom.
• Participates in professional learning aligned to district and school improvement goals.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the principal or designee.

Equipment: Uses standard instructional and office technology, including district data systems, student information systems, learning management systems, and adaptive instructional tools.

Physical and Work Environment: Work is performed in classroom and school settings. The position may require lifting instructional materials, assisting students with mobility as appropriate, and supervising students in various school environments.

Travel: May travel between district sites and attend required professional meetings or trainings.

Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes:

• Knowledge of IDEA, Section 504 (as applicable), Georgia Special Education Rules, and district procedures.
• Knowledge of specially designed instruction, differentiation, and evidence-based intervention strategies.
• Knowledge of progress monitoring tools and data-based decision-making.
• Ability to write measurable, standards-aligned IEP goals.
• Ability to manage classroom behavior using positive behavioral supports.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with administrators, teachers, related service providers, and parents.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to maintain professional judgment and confidentiality.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Certification: Valid Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) certification in Special Education appropriate to assignment.
• Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Special Education or related field required.
• Experience: Prior successful special education teaching experience preferred.
• FLSA Status: Exempt