Special Education Teacher

Nolapublicschools; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

NOLA Public Schools in New Orleans is looking for a dedicated Special Education Teacher to provide support and tailored instruction for students with diverse learning needs. The role involves developing individualized education plans (IEPs) and collaborating with colleagues to create an inclusive classroom environment.

Ideal candidates will possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Special Education along with a valid Louisiana teaching certification. Responsibilities include lesson planning, student assessment, and fostering positive relationships with families.

Qualifications

• Experience working with elementary-level students with diverse learning needs.
• Thorough understanding of pedagogy and best practices of education.
• Strong understanding of special education laws and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Plan and develop an engaging course of study.
• Create individualized education plans (IEPs) for students.
• Communicate feedback on students' progress to parents.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Classroom management skills

Detail-oriented and organized

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Special Education

Valid Louisiana teaching certification in Special Education

Job description

Vision

The vision of the NOLA Public Schools is that every student receives a high‑quality education that fosters their individual capabilities, while ensuring that they thrive, achieve physical and mental wellness, and are prepared for civic, social, and economic success.

Position Summary

The Special Education Teacher will be instrumental in providing tailored instruction and support to students with diverse learning needs. This role involves creating and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), collaborating with colleagues, and fostering an inclusive and supportive classroom environment. This position requires a deep understanding of special education principles, effective teaching strategies, and a commitment to meeting the unique needs of each student.

Responsibilities

• Plan and develop an engaging, age‑appropriate course of study in the classroom, adhering to educational best practices and state and school district curriculum guidelines.
• Develop individual lesson plans in one or more academic subjects using a variety of teaching techniques that appeal to various learning styles and methods, and adjust lesson plans to meet the needs of students in the classroom.
• Prepare materials for lessons, assignments, and tests; evaluate, correct, and grade student performance.
• Create an environment that is conducive to learning and enhances students’ educational experience.
• Analyze data from assessments and benchmark testing to drive instruction.
• Communicate timely feedback on students’ progress and concerns with tact and professionalism to parents and, as appropriate, other faculty, staff, and/or principal.
• Effectively manage student behavior and address disciplinary issues when necessary.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with parents.
• Work collaboratively with other teachers, support staff, and administrators.
• Participate in team meetings and professional development activities to stay updated on best practices and educational trends.
• Maintain required paperwork for individual student files, attendance and incident reports, and other necessary records.
• Incorporate educational technology into lessons to enhance learning experiences.
• Monitor students’ progress throughout the year and evaluate next grade level preparedness.
• Differentiate instruction to address the diverse learning needs of students.
• Provide additional support or challenges for students as needed.
• Guide the learning process of students in the classroom toward the achievement of curriculum goals set by the district and/or appropriate federal guidelines.
• Achieve those objectives/activities included in the Professional Growth Plan developed jointly with the principal or school administration as part of the accountability process mandated by the State Legislature.
• Perform such other duties as may be required.
• Supervise students in various settings including on‑campus and off‑campus activities, before and after school during drop‑off and pick‑up, within the classroom, during class transitions, recess/intermission, lunch periods, assemblies, and any other assigned times or locations to ensure their safety and well‑being.
• Attend non‑instructional activities such as faculty and staff meetings, professional training sessions, IEP meetings, parent‑teacher conferences, back‑to‑school and open house events, graduation ceremonies, PGP and PIP evaluations, observations, IAP and student discipline meetings/hearings, as well as school board and committee meetings and other meetings as needed/requested.
• Attend meetings and functions of employee‑sponsored activities, groups, or clubs.
• Attend work concessions/gates as requested by Principal or designee if applicable.
• Tailor lesson plans to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities within the classroom.
• Implement adaptive materials and technologies to enhance student engagement and understanding.
• Work closely with general education teachers, support staff, and specialists to create a collaborative and inclusive learning environment.
• Attend and actively participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and other collaborative sessions.
• Track and document student progress in alignment with IEP goals.
• Communicate regularly with parents or guardians to share updates on student performance and discuss strategies for support at home.
• Implement effective behavior management strategies to create a positive and supportive classroom environment.
• Collaborate with support staff and specialists to address behavioral challenges.
• Identify and utilize appropriate adapted materials, resources, and assistive technologies to meet the diverse needs of students.
• Ensure accessibility and accommodation for all learners.
• Stay informed about current trends, research, and best practices in special education.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching skills and knowledge.
• Foster positive relationships with parents, providing support and guidance regarding their child’s education.
• Collaborate with community resources to enhance support services for students with special needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Special Education or a related field.
• Valid Louisiana teaching certification in Special Education required.
• Teaching experience strongly preferred.
• Experience working with elementary‑level students with diverse learning needs.
• Thorough understanding of pedagogy and the best practices of education.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong classroom management skills.
• Detail‑oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must possess the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, staff, and outside agencies.
• Strong understanding of special education laws, regulations, and best practices.

Salary Offers

Our salary offers reflect a commitment to equity and transparency. Each offer is determined by education, years of experience, and alignment with compensation across similar roles within the district.

Work Environment

• Required to use motor coordination with finger dexterity (such as keyboarding, machine operation, etc.) part of the workday.
• Required to exert physical effort in handling objects more than 30 pounds rarely.
• Required to be exposed to physical occupational risks (such as cuts, burns, exposure to toxic chemicals) rarely.
• Required to be exposed to physical environment which involves dirt, odors, noise, weather extremes or similar elements rarely.
• Normal setting for this job is an office/school setting.

Performance Evaluation

The employee will be evaluated based on the above position using either two methods: via COMPASS/LEADS or a NOLA‑PS evaluating instrument. If the employee holds an Educational Leadership certification, he/she will be evaluated via COMPASS/LEADS to ensure renewal of certification.

EEOC Statement

NOLA Public Schools is committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, genetic information, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, lawful alien status, national origin, age, marital status, and non‑job related physical or mental disability, or protected veteran status.