Special Education Teacher-Language Arts

Jacksonville School District ; 117; United States; On-site; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Jacksonville School District 117 is seeking a dedicated Junior High School Special Education teacher to maximize learning opportunities for students with special needs. You will implement district curriculum, develop IEPs, and coordinate with parents and staff to support student progress and behavior management.

The role involves collaboration with administrators, ongoing professional development, and maintaining accurate student records in compliance with district policies and laws.

Qualifications

• Special Education knowledge and practices.
• Differentiated instruction based on learning styles.
• Familiarity with data information systems and student progress tracking.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state education laws.
• Ability to use computers and school software.
• Strong communication with students, parents and staff.
• Commitment to professional growth.
• Ability to collaborate with colleagues and administrators.

Responsibilities

• Develop Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students.
• Assist in implementing IEPs and behavior plans.
• Coordinate with agencies and authorities as needed.
• Collaborate with staff to assess student needs and inform stakeholders.
• Provide counseling and serve as liaison with home and school.
• Pursue ongoing professional development through seminars and research.
• Maintain accurate student records and share information as required.
• Encourage parental involvement in education and maintain communication.
• Participate in orientation for new teachers and provide in-service training.
• Select books and supplies and maintain inventory records.

Skills

Special Education

Differentiated Instruction

Data analysis

Communication with parents

Team collaboration

Organization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Education

State Certification as Special Education Teacher

Job description

• Position Type: Junior High School Teaching
• Date Posted: 3/5/2026
• Date Available: 08/11/2026

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

• Participates and assists in developing Individual Educational Plans ("IEP") for students.
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
• Coordinates 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.
• Serves as ready resource to students and parents to provide counseling that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as liaison between home and school.
• Continues 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.
• Organizes and maintains 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.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Assists in the orientation of new teachers, and provides in-service training in guidance.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.

Additional Duties

• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Note

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

Equipment

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

Travel Requirements

• Travels 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.

Experience

• Successful prior special education teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.

FLSA Status: Exempt