Secondary Special Education Teacher

TITLE: Secondary Special Education Teacher
REPORTS TO: Middle School Principal

Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the Middle School Principal, to facilitate student success and growth in academic and interpersonal skills through implementing district-approved curriculum, documenting teaching and student progress/activities/outcomes, addressing specific educational needs of individual students, and by creating a flexible, safe and optimal learning environment; and providing feedback to students, parents and administration regarding student progress, expectations, goals, etc.

Essential Functions

• Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending 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' IEP's 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 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 liaison between home and school.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or 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 required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• 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.

Additional Duties

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

Please note that the above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Travel Requirements
Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Knowledge, Skills and 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. 

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
Works in standard office and school building environments.

• Working indoors in classrooms, but sometimes teaching outdoors or supervising playgrounds
• Working closely with young children
• Exposure to diseases and infections, such as colds and influenza
• Exposure to loud sounds and high noise levels 

Qualifications Profile
Certification/License: 

• Iowa State Certification as a Special Education Teacher

Education

• Bachelors from an accredited college or university in field of special education or related discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
• Masters Degree in related areas preferred.

Experience
Successful prior teaching experience for the appropriate grade levels is a plus.

FLSA Status:    Exempt

All of the above duties and responsibilities are essential job skills and functions, subject to reasonable accommodation. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills and/or ability to perform the job proficiently. This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. Individuals may be required to perform any other job-related instructions as requested by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.