26-27 - OCES - Special Education Teacher

Oglethorpe County School System; Lexington (GA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Oglethorpe County School System seeks a Special Education Teacher to deliver specialized instruction and create inclusive learning environments for students with disabilities. Responsibilities include developing IEPs, collaborating with general education staff and families, and implementing evidence-based strategies to promote academic and social-emotional growth.

The role requires a Georgia teaching certificate in Special Education, experience with IEP processes, and a commitment to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field required.
• Master's degree preferred for advanced practice and scope of responsibilities.
• GaPSC teaching certificate in Special Education or eligible for certification required.

Responsibilities

• Provide specialized instruction aligned with state standards and student IEP goals.
• Differentiate instruction and use evidence-based practices to maximize achievement.
• Develop and implement IEPs, monitor progress, and communicate with families.
• Collaborate with general education staff and related service providers to support inclusive learning.
• Establish a structured, safe, and supportive classroom environment and manage behavior.

Skills

IEP knowledge

Collaboration

Behavior management

Educational technology

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Special Education

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Position Title:

Special Education Teacher

Reports To:

Principal

Work Calendar:

10-Month (190-Day Position)

FLSA Status:

Exempt

Position Summary

The Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing specialized instruction and support services to students with disabilities in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Georgia Department of Education regulations, and district policies. The teacher develops and implements Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborates with general education staff and families, and creates an inclusive learning environment that promotes academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and functional growth for students with disabilities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction and Student Learning

• Provide specialized instruction aligned with state curriculum standards, district expectations, and individual student goals.
• Develop and implement instructional strategies tailored to students' unique learning needs, abilities, and accommodations.
• Differentiate instruction and use evidence-based practices to maximize student achievement.
• Deliver instruction in various settings, including resource, co-teaching, inclusion, self-contained, and community-based environments as assigned.
• Utilize assistive technology, adaptive materials, and specialized resources to support student learning and access to the curriculum.
• Promote student independence, self-advocacy, and transition readiness.
• Maintain high expectations for student achievement while fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.

Individualized Education Program (IEP) Development and Compliance

• Develop, implement, monitor, and revise Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in accordance with federal, state, and district requirements.
• Schedule and facilitate IEP meetings and participate in eligibility, manifestation determination, reevaluation, transition, and other special education meetings.
• Ensure all required documentation, records, and timelines are maintained accurately and in compliance with IDEA and Georgia Department of Education regulations.
• Monitor student progress toward IEP goals and objectives and communicate progress to parents/guardians as required.
• Develop and implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and collaborate on Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) when appropriate.

Assessment and Data Analysis

• Administer and interpret formal and informal assessments.
• Collect, maintain, and analyze student performance and progress-monitoring data.
• Use assessment data to inform instructional decisions and interventions.
• Assist in evaluation and reevaluation processes for students referred for special education services.
• Participate in Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), Student Support Team (SST), and Response to Intervention (RTI) processes.

Classroom and Behavior Management

• Establish and maintain a structured, safe, and supportive learning environment.
• Implement positive behavior supports and classroom management strategies.
• Support students in developing social, emotional, communication, and behavioral skills.
• Address behavioral concerns in accordance with student IEPs, district policies, and applicable laws.

Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborate with general education teachers to provide accommodations, modifications, and specially designed instruction.
• Work closely with related service providers, including speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, school psychologists, counselors, and social workers.
• Maintain effective communication with parents/guardians regarding student progress, services, and educational needs.
• Participate in faculty meetings, professional learning communities, special education meetings, and other district initiatives.
• Serve as an advocate for students with disabilities and support inclusive educational practices.

Transition Planning

• Assist students in developing transition goals and plans beginning at age-appropriate milestones in accordance with state and federal requirements.
• Coordinate with families, community agencies, postsecondary institutions, and vocational programs to support successful transitions.
• Promote college, career, and independent living readiness skills.

Professional Responsibilities

• Comply with all federal, state, and local special education laws, regulations, and district policies.
• Participate in ongoing professional learning related to special education, instructional strategies, behavior management, compliance, and student support services.
• Maintain required certifications and professional credentials.
• Perform supervisory responsibilities, including but not limited to bus, cafeteria, hall, arrival, dismissal, and other duties as assigned.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the principal, special education administrator, or designee.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Special Education or a related educational field.
• Master's degree preferred.

Certification/Licensure

• Valid Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) teaching certificate in Special Education appropriate for the assigned grade levels and disability categories.

Experience

• Previous special education teaching experience preferred.
• Student teaching, internship, or practicum experience in special education required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of IDEA, Georgia special education regulations, and procedural safeguards.
• Knowledge of IEP development, implementation, and compliance requirements.
• Knowledge of evidence-based instructional and behavioral intervention strategies.
• Ability to analyze assessment and progress-monitoring data to improve student outcomes.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, families, administrators, and related service personnel.
• Proficiency in educational technology, assistive technology, student information systems, and special education documentation platforms.
• Strong organizational, time management, and case management skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and move throughout the school day.
• Ability to lift and carry instructional materials and equipment up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to assist students with mobility, positioning, and other physical needs as required by assigned students and training.
• Ability to safely respond to student behavioral and emergency situations.
• School-based setting with regular interaction with students, families, staff, and community agencies.
• May involve working with students exhibiting significant academic, behavioral, emotional, communication, or physical needs.
• May require attendance at evening meetings, parent conferences, professional development activities, and other school-related functions.

Evaluation

Performance will be evaluated in accordance with district policies, Georgia educator evaluation requirements, special education compliance standards, and administrative procedures.

The statements contained herein describe the general scope of responsibilities and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications.