Job Description

Special Education Teacher (Self-Contained)

A Self-Contained Special Education Teacher provides intensive, specialized instruction and behavioral support to students with significant learning, cognitive, or emotional needs in a dedicated, small-group classroom setting. They manage Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), track data, and supervise support staff to foster student independence.

Essential Duties

• Deliver highly modified or alternative academic curriculum tailored to the unique abilities of each student.
• Utilize specialized, evidence-based instructional strategies and assistive technology to maximize student learning.
• Teach essential functional life skills, social communication, and emotional regulation.
• Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
• Draft, implement, and annually update comprehensive Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Maintain rigorous, systematic data collection to monitor student progress toward specific goals.
• Participate in eligibility meetings, child-study teams, and triennial reviews.
• Develop and implement proactive behavior intervention plans (BIPs).
• Structure the physical classroom environment to minimize distractions, reduce sensory overload, and maximize predictability.
• De-escalate challenging behaviors and provide a physically and emotionally safe environment.
• Supervise, direct, and collaborate with paraprofessionals and aides assigned to the classroom.
• Communicate frequently with parents, guardians, and related service providers (e.g., speech therapists, occupational therapists) regarding student progress.
• Coordinate opportunities for reverse-inclusion or integration with general education peers when appropriate.

Additional Duties

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

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

Professional Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in education
• Master's Degree in Special Education
• Strong communication skills; ability to write, speak clearly and accurately
• Possess strong organizational skills

Terms of Employment

• Full-Time
• 10month
• Exempt

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