Special Education Teacher Job Description
Special Education Teacher
About Meridian School
Founded in 2011, Meridian School is a public, tuition-free charter school open to all students living in Williamson County. As a charter school, we are a school of “choice,” offering an inquiry-based curriculum and continuum for the International Baccalaureate Program K-12.
Our mission is to “provide an invigorating, educational environment that develops responsible citizens who can artfully navigate our complex world and enjoy a good life with others.” Meridian has been recognized by the US News & World Report and others as one of the best schools in Texas.
Position Overview
As a Special Education Teacher, you will provide special education students with learning activities and experiences designed to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. You will develop or modify curricula and prepare lessons and other instructional materials to student ability levels. You will also discuss with parents and support staff about important matters that might impede students’ progress. Ultimately, you will help and inspire children to achieve important learning milestones.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree from accredited university
- Valid Texas teaching certificate with required special education (EC-12)
- Demonstrate competency of special education
- Meets the highly qualified requirements as a special education teacher and for the grade level/core academic subject area(s) in which the teacher is assigned (i.e., 7-12 ELA, 7-12 Math etc)
- At least one year student teaching or approved internship
Special Knowledge/Skills
- Knowledge of special needs of students in assigned area
- Knowledge of Admission, Review and Dismissal (ARD) Committee process
- Knowledge of the development and implementation of Individual Education Plan (IEP)
- General knowledge of curriculum and instruction
Key Responsibilities
Instructional Strategies
- Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of the district's curriculum program and show written evidence of preparation as required.
- Collaborate with students, parents and other members of staff to develop IEP through the ARD Committee process for each student assigned
- Implement instructional, therapeutic, or skill development program for assigned students and show written evidence of preparation as required
- Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials and equipment that reflect understanding of learning styles and need of students assigned
- Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula as needed and assist special education student in regular classes with assignments
- Participate in ARD committee meetings on a regular basis
- Conduct assessment of student learning styles and use results to plan instructional activities
- Present subject matter according to guidelines established by IEP
- Maintain updated IEP Progress Reports for students assigned
- Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media to meet the needs and capabilities of each student assigned
- Plan and supervise assignments for teacher aide(s) and volunteer(s)
- Use technology in teaching/learning process
- Adhere to district employee guidelines and policies
Student Growth/Development
- Conduct ongoing assessments of student achievement through formal and informal testing
- Provide or supervise personal and medical care of students as stated in the IEP
- Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by campus principal
- Be a positive role model for students; support mission of the school
Classroom Management and Organization
- Create classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social and emotional development of students
- Manage student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook. This includes intervening in crisis situations and physically restraining students as necessary according to IEP
- Consult with classroom teachers regarding management of student behavior according to IEP and/or BIP
- Consult district and outside resource people regarding education, social, medical and personal needs of students
- Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials and facilities
- Assist in the selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials
Communication
- Establish and maintain open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, teachers and supervisors
- Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents and community members
- Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly
- Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills
- Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, district and school regulations and policies for special education teachers
- Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required
- Attend and participate in faculty and department meetings and serve on staff committees as required
Other
- Maintain confidentiality
- Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations
- Daily attendance and punctuality are essential functions of the job
- Perform the essential functions of walking and interacting with students and/or district employees in the specific work site assigned (classroom or office setting)
- Perform any and all duties as assigned
- Successfully advance district initiatives
Supervisory Responsibilities
- Supervise assigned instructional aides
Note: 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. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. The administration has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.
Work Environment
This position will operate in a professional, non-smoking educational environment, which at times can be busy with moderate noise and many unscheduled interruptions. This role will routinely use standard classroom equipment such as computers and peripherals, desks, textbooks, phones, photocopiers and filing cabinets. The job may include long and/or irregular hours.