POSITION TITLE: Special Education Teacher Functional Academics

 

EXEMPTION STATUS: Exempt

 

REPORTS TO: Principal

 

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: As assigned per contract, 2024-2025 school year

 

Primary Purpose

 

Provide for the learning, physical, social and emotional needs of students with disabilities in the special education and/or general education setting and the special education setting. Provide students with appropriate learning activities and experiences to help fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth.  Implement classroom programs for instruction, self-help, and behavior management.  Enable students to develop competencies and skills to function successfully in society.  Supervise special education paraprofessionals in the classroom.

 

 

Minimum Qualifications:

 

Education/Certification

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university

Valid Texas teaching certificate with endorsements or required training for subject/level assigned

Special Education EC-12 Certification

Core Subjects EC-12 Certification

 

Special Knowledge/Skills

Knowledge of core academic subject assigned

General knowledge of curriculum and instruction

Ability to work well with children with disabilities

Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior

Strong organizational, communication (verbal and written), and interpersonal skills

 

 

Experience

Clinical teaching or approved internship

 

Major Responsibilities and Duties

 

Instructional Strategies

 

• Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of the district curriculum and show written evidence of preparation as required. Prepare lessons that reflect accommodations for differences in student learning styles. 
• Teach the TEKS/SE as set by the Texas Education Agency and district curriculum, and present the curriculum in accordance with guidelines, policy, and regulations.
• Employ a variety of instructional techniques consistent with the needs and capabilities of students and incorporate technology in the teaching and learning process
• Collaborate with other staff in planning and implementing instructional goals, objectives, and methods in accordance with district requirements.
• Analyze and disaggregate data to assist in meeting the academic needs of students.
• Plan and supervise purposeful assignments for instructional aides and/or volunteers.

 

Student Growth and Development

 

• Assist students in analyzing and improving methods and habits of study.
• Assure student success as determined by the state and district curriculum and assessments.
• Assess the accomplishments of students on a regular basis and provide progress reports as required.
• Learn and adapt to each student’s special academic, medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs and assist students according to individual needs for instruction; physical needs such as transferring to and from a wheelchair, lifting, positioning; personal care needs including feeding, toileting, and personal hygiene; signing; and other needs as presented by the ARD committee. 

Classroom Management and Organization

 

• Create a learning environment that is appropriate to students’ maturity and interests.
• Manage student behavior in accordance with policies and the Student Code of Conduct, including intervening in crisis situations and restraining dangerous student behavior as needed.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, material, and facilities.
• Assist in the selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.
• Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required in a timely manner.

 

Communication

 

• Establish and maintain open lines of communication and maintain a professional relationship with students, parents, colleagues, supervisors, and community members.
• Use acceptable communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.
• Adhere to the district organizational chart in communication with all constituents.
• Present for students a positive role model that supports the mission of the district and demonstrates behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible as set out in the Educator Code of Ethics.

 

Professional Growth and Development

 

• Participate in professional learning activities to improve job-related skills and demonstrate interest and initiative in professional improvement.
• Keep informed of and comply with legal and local policies, regulations and procedures.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and serve on committees as assigned.
• Maintain confidentiality.

 

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environment Factors

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard classroom equipment, computer, peripherals, electronic devices
• Posture: Prolonged sitting/standing, frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, twisting
• Motion: Frequent walking; frequent repetitive hand motions, keyboarding, use of a mouse, wrist flexion/extension
• Lifting: Lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds without assistance, 30-55 pounds with assistance, and more than 55 pounds with appropriate assistance
• Environment: Work inside and outside; regular exposure to noise; occasional exposure to contagious diseases
• Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work with frequent interruption; work prolonged or irregular hours