Education/Certification: Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or related field. Valid state teaching certification in Special Education (EC–12).

Special Knowledge/Skills: knowledge of special needs of students in assigned area. Knowledge of Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee process and Individual Education Plan (IEP) goal setting process and implementation. Knowledge of how to adapt curriculum and instruction for special needs.

Experience: Experience with students with significant disabilities preferred

Provide specialized instruction and support for students with significant cognitive and/or adaptive needs. Develop and implement individualized programs that promote independence, functional academics, communication, and life skills necessary for daily living.

Instructional Strategies Instruction & IEP Implementation

1. Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) aligned to student needs.

2.Deliver instruction in functional academics (reading, math), communication, social skills, and daily living skills.

3.Modify and adapt general education curriculum to ensure accessibility. Utilize research-based strategies (e.g., task analysis, TEACCH, visual supports).

4. Plan and supervise assignments for teacher aide(s) and volunteer(s).

Life Skills Development 

5. Teach essential daily living skills such as hygiene, organization, and self-care. Support development of communication skills (verbal, AAC devices, visual systems).

6. Promote independence in school routines and transitions.

Behavior & Classroom Management

7. Implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and use positive behavior supports.

8. Create a structured, predictable classroom environment.

9. Support students in developing self-regulation and coping skills.

Assessment & Progress Monitoring

10. Collect and analyze data to monitor progress toward IEP goals.

11. Maintain compliance with documentation and timelines.

12. Participate in ARD/IEP meetings and collaborate on student goals.

Collaboration & Communication

13. Work closely with general education teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists, and specialists.

14. Provide guidance and training to paraprofessional staff.

15. Maintain consistent communication with families regarding student progress.

Personal Care & Safety

16. Assist students with personal care needs (feeding, toileting, mobility) as required.

17. Ensure student safety in all settings (classroom, cafeteria, playground, community-based instruction).

Other

18. Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, District, and school regulations and policies for special education teachers.

19. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required.

20. Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervise assigned teacher aide(s).

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals, and other instructional equipment.

Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting.

Motion: Frequent walking Lifting: May require regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities, control behavior through physical restraint, assist non-ambulatory students, and lift and move adaptive and other classroom equipment; may work prolonged or irregular hours.

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards.

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress.

Regular attendance in accordance with District Policy is required and expected.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.