Special Education Teacher

Montgomery-Public-Schools; Bessemer (AL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Montgomery-Public-Schools in Alabama seeks a Special Education Teacher to provide specialized instruction and services to students with disabilities under IEPs, developing individualized learning plans and monitoring progress to meet IDEA and ALSDE requirements.

The role emphasizes collaboration with general education staff, adaptive instruction, and confidential record-keeping, with ongoing family engagement and professional development in special education best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field (Master's preferred).
• Experience with IEP development and compliance with special education regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement IEPs with measurable goals aligned to AAAS or general education standards.
• Provide specialized instruction in academic, functional, and behavioral skills using evidence-based practices.
• Differentiate instruction and adapt materials for diverse learning needs.
• Collaborate with general education teachers for inclusive classroom planning.
• Coordinate and lead IEP meetings with parents and related service providers.
• Maintain IEP documentation in compliance with ALSDE timelines.
• Monitor progress toward IEP goals and report quarterly.
• Implement Positive Behavior Support Plans and de-escalation techniques.
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians about student progress.
• Participate in RTI/MTSS meetings and professional development on special education law.

Skills

Interpret educational evaluations

Organizational skills

Communication & collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Special Education

Job description

Job Summary: The Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing specialized instruction and services to students
with disabilities following their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This position develops and implements
individualized learning plans, monitors student progress, and ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local special
education regulations (IDEA, ALSDE). The ideal candidate will create an inclusive, supportive learning environment that
promotes academic, social, and emotional growth for all students.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Instruction & Curriculum

• Develop and implement IEPs with measurable goals aligned to Alabama Alternate Achievement Standards
  (AAAS) or general education curriculum.
• Provide specialized instruction in academic, functional, and behavioral skills using evidence-based practices
• Differentiate instruction and adapt materials to meet diverse learning need.
• Collaborate with general education teachers to ensure inclusion and accommodation in mainstream classes

IEP Development & Compliance

• Coordinate and lead IEP meetings with parents, administrators, and related service providers
• Maintain accurate and timely IEP documentation in compliance with ALSDE timelines
• Monitor and report on student progress toward IEP goals quarterly
• Ensure implementation of all accommodations and modifications

Assessment & Progress Monitoring

• Administer formal and informal assessments to identify student needs
• Collect and analyze data to inform instructional decisions
• Complete required alternate assessments (AA-AAAS) for qualifying students
• Maintain confidential records of evaluations, progress reports, and service logs

Behavior & Classroom Management

• Develop and implement Positive Behavior Support Plans (PBSP) as needed
• Use de-escalation techniques and crisis intervention strategies
• Establish structured, predictable learning environments
• Model and teach appropriate social skills and self-regulation strategies

Collaboration & Communication

• Partner with related service providers (OT, PT, SLP) to deliver coordinated services
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians about student progress
• Participate in RTI/MTSS meetings to support at-risk students
• Attend professional development on special education law and best practices

Professional Responsibilities

• Stay current with IDEA, ADA, and ALSDE special education regulations
• Maintain confidentiality of student records (FERPA compliance)
• Supervise and mentor paraprofessionals (if applicable)
• Participate in school-wide committees and professional learning communities

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field (Master's preferred)
• Certification: Valid Alabama teaching certificate in Special Education (required endorsements: Collaborative K-6,
  6-12, or Comprehensive K-12)
• Experience:
  
  • Knowledge of IEP development and special education law
  • Experience with evidence-based interventions for students with disabilities
  • Training in behavior management strategies (CPI, PBIS preferred)
• Skills:
  • Ability to interpret educational evaluations and diagnostic data
  • Strong organizational and case management skills
  • Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
• Additional Requirements:
  • Willingness to complete the required ALSDE special education training modules
  • Ability to lift/move up to 25 pounds (for student positioning needs)
  • Commitment to professional growth in special education best practices