Special Education Teacher

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The primary purpose of this position is to provide for the special education needs of assigned identified students. A primary focus is the diagnosis of learning needs and the writing and implementation of Individual Education Programs (IEP) for identified students. In addition, the special education teacher will consult and provide assistance to classroom teachers with regard to methods and materials for special education students in the regular classroom. Instruction must support the District Core Values and Mission, meet the need of our diverse student population, and result in measurable learning of identified learning and/or behavioral goals.

SPECIAL CONSIDEREATIONS: 

Special Education License

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s Degree Background and Criminal History Clearance Valid Oregon Teaching License with applicable Special Education endorsements and authorization level(s). Demonstrates high level of communication skills and meets District standards for oral and written language proficiency in English, and if applicable, in Spanish or Russian. Skill in leadership and facilitation, including problem solving and conflict resolution. Excellent organizational skills for effectively managing multiple tasks. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. Knowledge of the principles of first and second language acquisition, and culturally responsive pedagogy. Knowledge of human growth and development at assigned instructional level(s). Knowledge of effective student behavior management methods. Knowledge of the principles of effective instruction and differentiated instructional methods for students with a variety of learning styles due to disabilities and varying levels of English language proficiency. Knowledge of federal and state Special Education law and regulations sufficient to ensure compliance. Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board or administration may deem appropriate and acceptable.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Communicates effectively in English in both oral and written form. Communicates effectively in Spanish or Russian (if assigned) in both oral and written form. Uses a variety of formal and informal diagnostic assessments to determine eligibility and prescribe appropriate learning activities for each student. Shows written evidence of preparation for instruction based on assessment results that addresses both short and long-term learning goals, including state and District performance standards, and/or individual learning or behavioral goals as appropriate. Organizes and conduct IEP meetings on assigned students and maintains all pre-referral, referral, assessment, IEP, and census records as required. Assists classroom teachers by making specific recommendations regarding materials, methods, adaptations, and modifications for identified students. Provides specially designed and developmentally appropriate instruction for the purpose of achievement of IEP goals and state and District performance standards as appropriate. Provides training, consultation, direction, and monitoring of Special Education Assistants. Utilizes differentiated and sheltered content instructional strategies, and/or English language development strategies to instruct students with varying levels of English language proficiency. Utilizes differentiated instructional strategies for a variety of learning styles due to disabilities. Establishes and maintains appropriate standards of student behavior and maintains order in the classroom and other learning environments in a consistent and fair manner. Lifts, moves, or restrains students in accordance with Individual Education Program or Behavior Plan. Notifies and involves parents/guardians regarding a student’s behavior in accordance with school and District requirements. Encourages parents/guardians to volunteer and provides them with meaningful opportunities to assist and participate in the educational process. Follows all safety rules and takes all reasonable precautions to provide a safe and secure learning environment for all assigned students. Demonstrates support for District Core Values, District Mission, District Strategic Plan, and Schoolwide Improvement Plan. Establishes and maintains a positive and respectful learning environment and working relationship with students, staff, administration, parents/guardians, and community members. Assists parents and community members as needed. Demonstrates an awareness of and sensitivity to multicultural and multilingual values and environments. Complies with professional development activities as required by the District. Actively seeks out and participates in professional development activities designed to improve professional competence. Participates in various meetings for the purpose of receiving information or sharing information and expertise with students, colleagues, and parents/guardians. Holds expectations for high performance of self and students. Assesses results of performance for improvement on a regular basis. Demonstrates computer literacy and operates software programs as related to job responsibilities. Maintains accurate, complete, and confidential records as required by law and District policy and regulations. Maintains the integrity of confidential information relating to a student, family, colleague, or district patron, and uses or relays academic, social, or personal information only in the course of performing assigned responsibilities and in the best interest of the individuals involved.

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