Special Education Teacher

Goals of special education teachers:

To maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing the federal, state, and district approved curriculum, while addressing students' specific needs, by providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Essential Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Plan, conduct and complete required documentation/paperwork for special education conferences
• Document teaching and student progress, activities, and outcomes
• Develop Individual Educational Plans (IEP's) for students
• Assist teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans
• Complete and maintain special education paperwork for special needs students as outlined by federal and state law
• Assist the special needs students' student in making a realistic assessment of his abilities and in establishing educational and occupational goals in keeping with these abilities
• Assist in screening, evaluating and recommending placements of students in special education
• Prepare report cards, reading records, IEP forms, classroom observation records, and other misc. survey and special education forms
• Enter and update student grades and records in eSchool.
• Coordinate with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs are met.
• Continue to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the special education field by attending workshops or professional meetings.
• Ensure effective communication with students and parents
• Adhere to all policies of the District and the Arkansas Code of Ethics for Arkansas Educators
• Perform other related tasks as assigned by the building administrator and other central office administrators and/or as designated by the Superintendent

Knowledge, Skills and 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 special education due process paperwork.
• 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 the education of students
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed
• Knowledge of school curriculum and concepts
• Ability to maintain student confidentiality
• 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

Certification/License:

• Must have the appropriate level Special Education endorsement on teaching certificate or ability to obtain it
• Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree
• Successful completion of all background checks

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