Job Description

SPED Teacher

This position is responsible for planning, developing, delivering, and evaluating appropriated individualized educational services, learning programs, and instruction for special needs students in an inclusive (mainstreamed) setting in consultation with general education teachers.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist special education students in their education, emotional, social, and behavioral needs

• Maintain regular communication with parents by means of email, phone calls, conferences, and progress reports

• Collaborate with other Heritage Academy campuses Manage all Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and 504 plans

• Facilitate all special education meetings – Review of Existing Data (RED), Multidisciplinary (MET), Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and 504 plans

• Identify the needs of assigned students through formal and informal assessments

• Collaborate with general education teachers regarding the educational, social, emotional, and physical needs and objectives of each student

• Collaborate with general education teachers to design appropriate teaching strategies

• Collaborate with general education teachers to adapt and modify instructional materials and lesson plans according to the Individual Educational Plans (IEPs)Review IEPs with parents, school administrators and general education teachers

• Collaborate with general education teachers to utilize appropriate methods of learning delivery and instruction to meet the needs of each student in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)

• Monitor, evaluate and document each student's progress utilizing appropriate measurements and assessment devices

• Prepare timely progress reports for each student

• Develop and implement necessary interventions and strategies to promote achievement of student objectives

• Assist parents with understanding and supporting educational objectives, learning expectations and behavioral standards

• Ensure adherence to reasonable rules of classroom discipline and order to maintain a secure and effective learning environment

• Manage student behavior through monitoring, supervising and assessing behavioral patterns

• Utilize appropriate corrective methods to modify behavior

• Develop and implement Behavioral Intervention Plans (BIPs) where necessary

• Instruct students on socially acceptable behaviors and personal development skills

• Assist students with college and workplace goals

• Complete Transition Plans for IEP students

• Maintain accurate and complete records in compliance with school district regulations and legal requirements

• Maintain a current knowledge of special education best practices and trends

• Complete yearly special education state reports through ADE Connect

• Schedule needed therapies (Speech, OT, Counseling, etc.)

• Recruit and schedule TA’s and tutors to assist in the classroom

• Manage students’ schedules

• Supervise paraprofessionals

• The instructor must also submit an annual performance improvement plan and budget that outlines the amount of money needed for the following year.

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications, Competencies & Strengths

Education: Bachelor’s degree in appropriate field

Experience: 3-5 years of experience in working with students with emotional disabilities and autism preferred; experience in educating special needs students required.

Special Skills:

• Valid state Special Education Teaching Certification-Cross Categorical or equivalent

• Experience in assessing learning disorders and responding with the appropriate interventions

• Proven effective classroom and student behavior management skills

• Knowledge of current special education practices and methodologies

• Knowledge and understanding of State, local, and federal regulations and policies affecting special education

• Working knowledge of educational technology applications, experience with IEP Pro and Assistive Technology preferred

Type of fingerprint clearance: Shall be fingerprint checked pursuant to A.R.S 15-512

Physical functions: Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, and operate a computer, hand-held learning devices and other office equipment. Reach with hands and arms, and must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

Equipment used: Frequent computer use is expected.

Work Environment: Typical office environment is expected; occasional exposure to outdoor weather.

This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions, it does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.