Duties and Responsibilities
The Elementary Special Education Teacher of the Deaf provides instruction to deaf, hard-of-hearing, and/or language-delayed students. The teacher creates a respectful, inclusive learning environment and delivers instruction aligned with academic standards, IEP goals, and the mission of the Rhode Island School for the Deaf. The teacher supports student achievement through effective instruction, collaboration, and advocacy.
Daily Expectations
Create and maintain an organized, positive, and engaging classroom environment that supports student learning and involvement
Plan, develop, and implement effective instruction using appropriate instructional techniques for deaf and hard-of-hearing learners
Communicate clearly with students in their identified language of instruction as determined by assessments and language planning
Maintain a current working knowledge of the Common Core Standards, RI Standards, special education regulations, and state testing procedures
Monitor student understanding of the curriculum and adjust or modify instruction, materials, and assessments as needed
Establish and maintain classroom standards of behavior, mutual respect, and safety
Make learning goals clear and maintain high standards and expectations for all students
Demonstrate flexibility and responsiveness to the needs of students, the department, and the school
Promote confidence, perseverance, independence, and personal responsibility in students
Demonstrate sensitivity to and appreciation for student diversity
Engage and collaborate constructively with parents and families
Maintain professional boundaries, confidentiality, and refrain from gossip
Work collaboratively with school staff to plan and implement interdisciplinary curriculum and suggest improvements
Use available resources to analyze, reflect upon, and refine professional knowledge and instructional practices
Develop and use authentic formative and summative assessments to guide instruction
Plan, complete, and document required testing, data collection, and interpretation, including state and alternate assessments as needed
Modify curriculum and support general education teachers in implementing accommodations and modifications for students with IEPs
Attend IEP meetings; serve as a special education case manager; write IEP PLAAFP, annual IEP goals and other relevant sections; and monitor and report IEP progress quarterly
Implement behavior plans for individual students as needed
Prepare lesson plans, maintain accurate records, and submit required paperwork and data on time
Participate in diagnostic, planning, and professional development meetings and apply new learning to professional practice
May be delegated certain health care responsibilities by the school nurse, if needed
Perform other duties as assigned to support the effective functioning of the school