Exceptional Children - Autism Teacher
Position Purpose: Under the general supervision of the School Principal, 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 Functions
- Conduct assessments, testing, and diagnostic examinations of students to identify learning issues and recommend courses of action or corrective procedures.
- Participate in PTs and assist in developing Individual Educational Plans (IEP) for students.
- Assist students and teaching staff in implementing IEPs and behavior management plans.
- Coordinate with outside agencies, organizations, and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
- Collaborate with administrators and other teaching staff to ascertain individual student abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and familiarize stakeholders with social work services.
- Serve as a ready resource to students and parents, providing counseling that leads to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serve as liaison between home and school.
- Continuously acquire professional knowledge by attending seminars, workshops, professional meetings, conducting research, and maintaining professional relationships with higher‑learning institutions and the business community.
- Organize and maintain a system for accurate record‑keeping and provide student information to prospective colleges and employers as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
- Encourage parental involvement in students' education and ensure effective communication with students and parents.
- Assist in the orientation of new teachers and provide in‑service training in guidance.
- Select and requisition appropriate books, aids, other supplies, and equipment and maintain inventory records.
Additional Duties
- Perform other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.
Skills, Knowledge, Abilities
- Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, and 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 federal and state laws regarding education and students.
- Ability to use computer network systems 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 regarding performance and professional growth.
- Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
Works in standard office and school building environments.
Qualifications Profile
Certification/License: State Certification as a Special Education Teacher.
Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.
Education: Bachelors from an accredited college or university in an education discipline applicable to the teaching assignment.
Experience: Successful prior special education teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.