Job Summary: Under the general supervision of the Executive Director, the Special Education Teacher will 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. 

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct assessments, testing, and diagnostic examinations of students to identify learning issues and recommend courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning. 
• Participates in PPT’s and assists in developing Individual Educational Plans (“IEP”) for students. 
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students’ IEPs 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 a 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 the liaison between home and school. 
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops, 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 district procedures and applicable laws require. 
• 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. 
• Participates in various student and parent activities which occur in school, including curriculum nights and school events. 
• Performs other duties as assigned.

 

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities 

• Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc., and proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs. 
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based on 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 systems and software applications as needed. 
• Ability to organize and coordinate work. 
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents in Spanish and English.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth. 
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted during work. 

Education and Experience:

• MN teaching license in any Special Education related field
• Must be proficient in academic or native Spanish preferred
• Must be 18 years or older at the time of employment, must satisfactorily pass a criminal background check, and must comply with organizational and district policies. 

Physical Requirements: 

• Required to lift or carry classroom supplies, textbooks, furniture, and equipment to a minimum of 35 pounds.  
• Required to sit, stand, bend, stoop, reach, grab, pull, hear, see, and speak on a daily basis.
• Required to perform repetitive physical tasks such as computer keyboarding, writing, and reading