2025-26 - 1.0 Special Education Preschool Teacher - Meadows Elementary

N. Thurston Schools; Lacey (WA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established educational institution is seeking a dedicated Special Education Teacher to provide effective instruction in various settings, focusing on student safety and individual needs. This role involves collaborating with diverse families and communities, ensuring compliance with IEPs, and utilizing data-driven strategies to enhance learning outcomes. The ideal candidate will demonstrate expertise in classroom management and a commitment to ongoing professional development. Join a supportive team that values inclusivity and strives to make a positive impact on students' lives.

Benefits

Comprehensive Health Benefits

Life Insurance

Retirement Plans

Union Position

Qualifications

• Experience with diverse populations and commitment to cultural inclusivity.
• Strong communication skills with parents, students, and staff.

Responsibilities

• Plan lessons based on assessed student needs and IEP compliance.
• Collaborate within professional learning communities to enhance learning.
• Monitor student well-being and intervene for safety and behavioral concerns.

Skills

Assessment Proficiency

Cultural Inclusivity

Communication Skills

Classroom Management

Collaboration

Technology Integration

Education

Accredited Teacher Certification

Washington State Certification

Tools

Woodcock-Johnson Tests

Job description

Employment Begins: 2025-26 school year

SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER

STANDARD POSITION DESCRIPTION

Positions include roles in HIGHLY SUPPORTED LIFE SKILLS, HIGH INTENSITY SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING, PRESCHOOL, EARLY INTERVENTION, VOICE PROGRAM, TEACHER FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED, DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING, and ITINERANT SPECIAL ED. TEACHER. Classification: Certificated. Location: Assigned School(s). Reports to: Principal or Principal Designee. FLSA Status: Exempt. Bargaining Unit: NTEA.

This description outlines duties common to certificated teaching positions with similar responsibilities, classifications, and pay. Duties may vary and are subject to change based on district needs and job requirements.

This document does not constitute a contract and may be modified by the employer accordingly.

Part I: Position Summary

The teacher is responsible for effective instruction following district-approved curricula and assessments. Responsibilities include teaching in various settings such as Life Skills, Behavior Development, Structured Communications, and Learning Resource/Support, with a primary focus on student safety, collaboration, and addressing individual student needs.

The district serves a diverse community with approximately 40% students from varied backgrounds. The candidate must demonstrate experience working with diverse families and communities, and a commitment to community engagement.

Part II: Supervision and Controls over the Work

The teacher operates with a high degree of independence under the supervision of a designated administrator and may also receive guidance from a district special education administrator. Work is governed by professional standards, policies, regulations, and applicable state laws.

Part III: Major Duties and Responsibilities

1. Plan lessons based on assessed student needs, utilizing data and district-approved assessment tools, and ensure compliance with IEP and 504 plans.
2. Collaborate within professional learning communities and multidisciplinary teams to enhance student learning.
3. Prepare and deliver lessons using research-based strategies aligned with curriculum standards.
4. Maintain accurate grading and communicate progress to students and parents, including updating electronic systems.
5. Integrate technology into instruction and record-keeping, including IEP documentation.
6. Establish classroom management practices that promote positive behavior and engagement.
7. Participate in faculty and curriculum meetings, supporting school initiatives and vision.
8. Monitor student well-being and intervene when necessary, especially regarding safety and behavioral concerns.
9. Engage in professional reflection and development annually.
10. Follow board policies and stay updated on policy changes.
11. Perform other duties as assigned.

Part IV: Minimum Qualifications

• Proficiency with various assessment instruments, including Woodcock-Johnson tests; familiarity with IFSP and IDEA Part C for Early Intervention.
• Experience working with diverse populations or demonstrated commitment to cultural inclusivity.
• Successful completion of an accredited teacher certification program and valid Washington certification(s).
• Completion or commitment to complete highly qualified criteria, including praxis requirements.
• Experience or potential in teaching special education, with skills in applying IDEA and 504 procedures.
• Strong communication skills with parents, students, and staff.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team and professional learning community.
• Classroom management expertise and knowledge of diverse assessment and instructional techniques.
• Understanding of child and adolescent development, culturally responsive teaching, and technology integration.
• Evidence of ongoing professional growth and self-reflection.

Specific Program Qualifications

VOICE Program: Conduct vocational assessments, implement various programs, coordinate community work, and collaborate with service providers.

Early Intervention: Participate in transition activities, develop and monitor IFSP, and support families in home and community settings.

Visually Impaired: Teach Braille, support orientation and mobility, and understand visual impairments.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing: Assess sign language needs, teach sign language, and collaborate on support schedules.

Itinerant Teacher: Manage caseloads, provide instruction, and coordinate transition and community services.

Part V: Desired Qualifications

• Bilingual skills, experience in diverse classrooms, team teaching, and specific grade or content expertise.

Part VI: Physical and Environmental Requirements

Must meet physical demands such as lifting up to 50 pounds regularly, occasional lifting up to 100 pounds, and working in various environments, including outdoor conditions. Vision and hearing requirements are specified, and exposure to infectious materials and behavioral challenges is acknowledged.

Insurance and Retirement Benefits

Eligible employees working 630+ hours annually qualify for comprehensive health and life benefits through SEBB. Retirement options include the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and voluntary 403(b) and 457 plans.

This is a union position. For questions about discrimination or employment policies, contact designated district officers. Employment is contingent upon satisfactory background checks as mandated by law.