Special Education Teacher
The Education Specialist will work with students with mild to moderate or moderate to severe disabilities in either a learning center or Special Day Class environment. He or she will facilitate learning activities and experiences designed to help students fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Learning center/resource students participate in the general education environment with support from Instructional Assistants. Develop or modify curricula and prepare lessons and other instructional materials to student ability levels. Work in a team environment and effectively set goals and implement Individualized Education Plans. Attend IEP meetings and present progress on goals and recommendations for
new goals to the IEP team. Work with teachers and administrators to modify teaching methods, curriculum, and assessment methods. Primary duties and responsibilities may include observation of current teaching environment for students, analyzing student assessments, and determining what changes may be needed to student programs. The education specialist will communicate student development and progress directly with parents and guardians and consults with administrators and guidance counselors about student progress.
Special Education Teachers will possess:
- A California Special Education Teaching Credential: Mild-Mod. and/or Mod.-Severe
- Extensive knowledge to support working with students with developmental disabilities
- Knowledge of the Individual Education Plan (IEP) process
- General knowledge of curriculum development and instruction
- Ability to dynamically use effective instructional strategies
- Good collaboration skills to communicate with students, parents, and staff members
- Ability to develop and case manage IEP's for each student assigned
- Ability to implement an instructional or skill development program for assigned students
and to show written evidence of preparation
- Planning and use of appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities,
materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of
students assigned
-Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula as needed and assist
special education students in regular classes with assignments.
-Conduct assessments of student learning styles and use results to plan for instructional
activities.
-Present subject matter according to guidelines established by IEP.
-Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media to meet the needs and capabilities of
each student assigned.
-Plan and supervise assignments for teacher aide(s).
-Use technology in teaching/learning process.
-Conduct ongoing assessments of student achievement through formal and informal testing.
-Be a positive role model for students and support the mission of the school.
-Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social,
and emotional needs of students.
-Manage student behavior and administer discipline. Consult with classroom teachers regarding
management of student behavior according to their IEP.
-Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and
facilities.
-Assist in selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials as required.
-Establish and maintain open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students,
principals, and teachers.
-Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents, and community
members.
-Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.
-Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, district, and school regulations and policies for
special education teachers.
-Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other
documentation.