Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher Role

This position reports to the Building Principal and Special Education Division. The Special Education Teacher develops and provides specialized instruction to meet the unique needs of all students with disabilities. This position requires a high degree of adaptability, attention to diversity and equitable outcomes.

Special Education Teacher Expectations

• Provides research-based specialized instruction to address the instructional goals and objectives contained within each student's IEP;
• Assesses student progress and determines the need for additional reinforcement or adjustments to instructional techniques;
• Employs various teaching techniques, methods and principles of learning to enable students to meet their IEP goals;
• Develops and implements annual Individualized Educational Program (IEP) plans for students;
• Creates a positive learning experience with emphasis in individualized instruction using appropriate sources;
• Provides direction, supervision and evaluation of educational paraprofessionals as directed;
• Employs and implements a classroom structure and consistency to encourage student responsibility, cooperation and mutual respect consistent with district policies and procedures;
• Collaborates and consults with educational professionals and community service providers regarding the needs of students;
• Performs other comparable duties of a like or similar nature apparent or as assigned.

Special Education Teacher Key Qualities

• Relishes using multiple communication methods that are tailored to and facilitate productive conversations with different stakeholders;
• Applies the critical thinking skills needed to adapt instructional practices to support student growth;
• Builds positive and collaborative working relationships with colleagues;
• Practices patience with all students, families and colleagues;
• Always seeking new ways to teach students the way they learn.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a Bachelors or Masters Degree.
• Current New York State teaching license in required content area.