Elementary Special Education Teacher

Elementary Special Education Teacher 

Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the Building Principal and Director of Special Education, the teacher will be expected to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students’ specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Essential Job Functions

• Conducts assessments, testing, and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.
• Leads the process of developing appropriate, goal oriented Individual Education Plans (“IEPs”) for students.
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students’ IEPs and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including State and Federal authorities as needed.
• Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student’s abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with social work services.
• Serves as a ready resource to students and parents to provide counseling that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as liaison between home and school.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing student information to prospective colleges and employers, as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students’ education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Assists in orientation of new teachers, and provides in-service training and guidance.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, aids, and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.
• Teach E.S.Y. (Extended School Year) with students over the summer break.

Additional Duties

• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Note:   The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities.  It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
 
Equipment

• Use standard office equipment, such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travel Requirements

• Travel to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable State and Federal Laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
• Preference will be given to those with verbal behavior training.

Temperament

• Must possess excellent interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to work in an environment with frequent interruptions.
• Able to make judgments and work under high levels of stress in a rational, calm, and equitable manner.
• Ability to get along well with staff, students, and the public.
• Exhibits a positive attitude toward the position, i.e., follows established procedures in the performance of his/her duties.
• Understands the importance of a pleasant, efficient response to all public inquiries and telephone calls, ensuring the accurate dissemination of that information to the proper District personnel.
• Performs in an efficient, yet pleasant manner, managing both time and assigned tasks.
• Exhibits a "team" sense of both operation and cooperation with management and staff members.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards

• Works in standard office and school building environment.

Note:   Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position.
Certification/License

• PA State Certification as a Special Education Teacher. Additional certifications preferred, but not necessary. Willingness to obtain additional certifications required.
• Motor Vehicle Operator’s License or ability to provide own transportation.

Education

• Bachelors Degree from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
• Willingness to pursue additional training and/or certitification if required 
• Masters Degree in Special Education preferred.

Experience

• Successful prior experience teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.

FLSA Status:             Exempt

EOE