Job Title: Special Education Teacher
Exemption Status: Exempt
Reports to: Principal
Date Revised: 4.24.2024
Dept./School: Assigned Campus
Primary Purpose:
Provide special education students with learning activities and experiences designed to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Develop or modify curricula and prepare lessons and other instructional materials to match student ability levels. Work in self-contained, team, departmental, or itinerant capacity as assigned.
Qualifications:
Education/Certification:
- Bachelor’s degree from accredited university
- Valid Texas teaching certificate with required special education endorsements for assignment
Special Knowledge/Skills:
- Knowledge of special needs of students in assigned area
- Knowledge of ARD Committee process and IEP goal setting and implementation
- Ability to adapt curriculum and instruction for special needs
- Effective communication skills
Experience:
- Student teaching, approved internship, or related work experience
Major Responsibilities and Duties:
Instructional Strategies:
- Collaborate with students, parents, and staff to develop IEPs through the ARD process.
- Implement instructional or therapeutic programs for students, with documented preparation.
- Assess student learning styles and plan appropriate strategies and materials.
- Present subject matter effectively, using various techniques and technology.
- Work with classroom teachers to modify curricula and assist in regular classes.
- Participate in ARD meetings regularly.
- Select books, equipment, and instructional media.
Student Growth and Development:
- Conduct ongoing assessments of student achievement.
- Provide or supervise personal and medical care as per IEP.
- Supervise extracurricular activities and sponsor approved outside activities.
- Consult with district and outside resources regarding student needs.
Classroom Management and Organization:
- Create a conducive learning environment.
- Manage student behavior and administer discipline, including crisis intervention and restraint as necessary.
- Coordinate with teachers on behavior management strategies.
- Ensure safety precautions are followed.
- Plan and oversee work of aides and volunteers.
Other:
- Maintain open communication with parents, students, and staff.
- Maintain professional relationships and participate in staff development.
- Ensure compliance with regulations and policies.
- Maintain records and participate in meetings and committees.
- Follow safety protocols and emergency procedures.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Direct the work of instructional aide(s).
Working Conditions:
Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer, instructional equipment
Posture: Prolonged standing, frequent kneeling, bending, pushing, twisting
Motion: Frequent walking
Lifting: May require heavy lifting (45+ pounds), assisting students with disabilities, physical restraint, and moving equipment; may involve irregular hours.
Environment: Exposure to biological hazards
Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress
This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities of the job and is not exhaustive.