What are the responsibilities and job description for the Certified- Self-Contained Special Education Teacher position at Bedford Middle School?
Job Description: Self-Contained Special Education Teacher
Location: Bedford Middle School
Position Summary:
The Self-Contained Special Education Elementary Teacher is responsible for providing comprehensive educational experiences to elementary students within a self-contained classroom setting. This role involves creating an inclusive and nurturing learning environment, developing engaging lesson plans, addressing students' diverse academic and social needs, and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with special needs. The teacher will facilitate the growth of foundational skills, promote a love of learning, and foster a positive classroom community.
Key Responsibilities:
Classroom Instruction:
- Plan and deliver engaging lessons that align with state educational standards across various subjects, including language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.
- Tailor instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles, abilities, and individualized needs of students, including those with special needs.
- Utilize effective teaching strategies, technology, and resources to enhance student engagement and understanding.
Curriculum Development:
- Develop and implement a well-rounded curriculum that integrates diverse subjects and fosters holistic student development.
- Create lesson plans, instructional materials, and assessments that cater to individualized learning goals and educational needs.
Student Assessment:
- Assess student progress through formative and summative assessments, providing timely and constructive feedback to support growth.
- Analyze student performance data to inform instructional adjustments and interventions as necessary.
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs):
- Collaborate with special education staff and other professionals to develop, implement, and monitor individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with special needs.
- Ensure that IEP goals and accommodations are effectively integrated into classroom instruction and assessments.
Classroom Management:
- Create a positive, inclusive, and respectful classroom environment where all students, including those with special needs, feel safe, valued, and motivated to learn.
- Establish and enforce consistent classroom routines, rules, and procedures to promote a structured learning atmosphere.
Parent and Guardian Communication:
- Establish regular communication with parents/guardians to provide updates on student progress, share insights into classroom activities, and collaborate on IEP implementation.
Social and Emotional Learning:
- Promote the development of social and emotional skills by modeling positive behavior, encouraging empathy, and teaching conflict resolution.
Classroom Resources:
- Organize and manage instructional materials, resources, and technology to facilitate effective teaching and learning.
Professional Development:
- Participate in ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance teaching skills, stay updated on educational best practices, and incorporate new strategies for both general education and special education settings.
School Community Engagement:
- Collaborate with colleagues, administrators, and support staff to contribute to the school's learning community and achieve common goals.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field; teaching license/certification in the state of Indiana, with a special education certification.
- Strong knowledge of elementary educational principles, curriculum development, and instructional methodologies.
- Ability to differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of students, including those with special needs.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective interaction with students, parents, and colleagues.
- Patience, adaptability, and a passion for working with young learners and students with special needs.
- Dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable classroom environment.
- Familiarity with state educational standards, assessment practices, and special education regulations.
- Experience with technology integration and using educational tools to enhance instruction.
- Previous experience working with elementary students, particularly in self-contained classrooms and special education settings, is advantageous.