Special Education Teacher (Grades 7-12), Science Preferred

Palisades Park School District; Palisades Park (NJ); On-site; USD 65,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

A local school district is seeking a Special Education Teacher for grades 7-12 to enhance learning experiences for students with special needs. The role involves implementing approved curriculum and addressing individual educational plans (IEPs). The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree and a Master's in Special Education, along with state certification. Experience in special education is preferred. This position is based at the high school location in Palisades Park, New Jersey.

Qualifications

• State Certification as a Special Education Teacher.
• Successful prior special education teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.
• Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.
• Experience with IEP development and PPT meetings.
• Ability to work with grades 7-12 students.

Responsibilities

• Maximize learning experience of students with special needs.
• Conduct assessments and recommend courses of action.
• Assist in developing Individual Educational Plans (IEP) for students.
• Coordinate with outside agencies as needed.
• Maintain accurate student records.
• Communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Organize and manage instruction and materials.

Skills

Knowledge of Special Education principles

Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents

Knowledge of differentiated instruction

Communication with Parents

Education

Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education

Masters Degree in Special Education

Tools

MS Office

Student Information Systems

Job description

Special Education Teacher (Grades 7-12), Science Preferred JobID: 391

• Position Type: High School Teaching
• Date Posted: 5/7/2025
• Location: Palisades Park Jr/Sr High School

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 for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.
• Participate in PPT's and assist in developing Individual Educational Plans ("IEP") for students.
• Assist students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans.
• Coordinate with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
• Coordinate with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with social work services.
• Serve as ready resource to students and parents to provide counseling that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serve as liaison between home and school.
• Continue to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
• Organize and maintain a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing 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 and 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.

Equipment

• Use standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travel Requirements

• Travel to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities

• Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as 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 system 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 with regard to 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.

Note: Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position.

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 education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
  • Masters Degree in Special Education.
• Experience:
  • Successful prior special education teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.

Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.