Position Summary:
We are looking for a caring and enthusiastic Special Education Teacher to join our middle school team. This position supports young learners with developmental delays, learning disabilities, and other special needs by providing individualized instruction in a nurturing, structured environment. The ILP teacher in this high-needs setting is responsible for the overall planning, implementation, and evaluation of individualized learning programs for students with significant behavioral and/or emotional challenges. This role requires strong leadership, collaboration with a dedicated support staff (including crisis paraprofessionals), and expertise in behavior management and de-escalation strategies.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Individualized Instruction & Program Development:
- Develop and implement individualized learning plans (ILPs/IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs) tailored to each student's
academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs.
- Provide differentiated instruction and use a variety of teaching techniques to engage students with diverse learning styles.
- Implement evidence-based interventions and strategies to promote positive behavior and reduce challenging behaviors.
Behavior Management & Crisis Intervention:
- Establish a highly structured and supportive classroom environment with clear expectations and routines.
- Proactively manage student behavior using positive reinforcement and de-escalation techniques.
- Coordinate and oversee crisis intervention procedures, utilizing expertise in de-escalation and physical management techniques as
needed.
- Collaborate with crisis paraprofessionals and other support staff to ensure consistent implementation of behavior plans and
interventions.
Collaboration & Communication:
- Effectively supervise and direct three crisis paraprofessionals, providing clear roles and responsibilities.
- Foster strong communication and collaboration with crisis paraprofessionals, sharing insights and working together to address
student needs.
- Communicate regularly with parents and guardians, maintaining an open dialogue about student progress and concerns
- Collaborate with related service providers (e.g., therapists, counselors) to ensure a holistic approach to student support.
Data Collection & Progress Monitoring:
- Collect and analyze data on student progress towards ILP goals, making data-informed adjustments to instruction and
interventions.
- Maintain accurate and detailed records of student behavior and academic performance.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree in Special Education or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
- State certification in special education
- Demonstrated experience working with students with significant behavioral or emotional challenges.
- Training and experience in behavior management and de-escalation techniques (e.g., CPI).
- Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative team.
- Patience, empathy, and a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.