Job Description:

Location:
  Brooklyn Elementary School

Teacher - Special Education, Middle School Therapeutic Program
 
Acceptable Certifications:  165, 265 or 065  
 
Position Purpose:  Under the general supervision of the Special Education Director and School Principal, the role of the special education teacher is to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, and social-emotional skills; address students' specific needs; provide a safe and therapeutic learning environment. 

Essential Functions: 
Designing and delivering specialized instruction to meet the needs of students with disabilities based on student's IEP, and general education curriculum to meet the Connecticut State Standards.

Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning. 

Participates in PPTs and assists in developing Individual Educational Plans ("IEP") for students. 

Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEPs and behavior management plans.

Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with social work services. 

Serves as a ready resource to students and parents to provide social skill instruction that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as a liaison between home and school. 

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, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community. 

Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing student information to prospective colleges and employers, as required by district procedures and applicable laws. 

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

 
Additional Duties:
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent. 

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities:
Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs. 

Knowledge of differentiated instruction based on student learning styles. 

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

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

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

Ability to organize and coordinate work. 

Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, students, and parents. 

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

 
Education:
Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignments. 

Preferred Masters Degree in Special Education. 

Experience: 
Successful prior special education teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.