Job Description:

Location:

  North Stonington Public Schools

(High-Needs School)

Special Education Teacher

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the Director of Student Services and the Principal, to facilitate student success and growth in academic and interpersonal skills through implementing evidenced based instructional strategies, district approved curriculum; documenting student progress/outcomes; addressing specific educational needs of individual students and by creating a flexible, safe and optimal learning environment; and providing feedback to students, parents and administration regarding student progress, expectations, goals, etc.

Essential Functions

Serves as a case manager for students and ensures IEP goals, objectives, accommodations, and modifications are appropriately addressed.

Develops IEPs goals and objectives and monitors student progress toward those goals.

Administers evaluations in accordance with special education best practices and laws.

Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.

Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences so as to best utilize the available time for instruction

Develops and administers school elementary curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives.

Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.

Instructs students in the principles of responsible citizenship and other subject matters specified in applicable laws, as well as administrative regulations and procedures of the c school system.

Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.

Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.

Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.

Ensures that student conduct conforms with the school's standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.

Coordinates with other elementary professional staff members, especially within grade level, to evaluate and assess curriculum, and participates in faculty meetings and committees.

Supervises students in activities that take place out of the classroom during the school day, including activities involving school transportation.

Additional Duties

Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and Director of Special Education as designated by the Superintendent.

        Note:    The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities.  It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Equipment

Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travel Requirements

Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge and experience with specific literacy programs and techniques.

Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiates instruction based upon student learning styles.

Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.

Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.

Knowledge of elementary school curriculum and concepts.

Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.

Ability to organize and coordinate work.

Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.

Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.

Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards

Works in standard office and school building environments.

                Note:    Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Job Duties for this position.

Qualifications Profile

Certification/License:

CT State Certification in Special Education (endorsement 165 or 265)

CT State Certification in the appropriate grade level preferred.

Education

Bachelors from an accredited college or university in special education or related discipline applicable to teaching assignment.

Master’s Degree in related area preferred.

Experience

Successful prior teaching experience for the appropriate grade levels a plus.