Position Title:              Self Contained Special Education Teacher

QUALIFICATIONS:   Bachelor’s Degree in the field of Education. An understanding of teaching and the duties of a teacher as an educational leader. Eligibility to hold a valid Instructional certificate as issued by the Department of Education for the state

of Arkansas for the appropriate level of instruction. Any alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may find acceptable and reasonable.

REPORTS TO:        Special Education LEA and Building Principal

JOB GOALS:           To facilitate the learning process for students with special needs through the effective application of instructional skills and knowledge and to support students in their social and emotional growth in accordance with Administration, pertinent laws, state and federal regulations and the Board of Education policies.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES, FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The performance responsibilities of this position may include but not be limited to the following:

• Come to work each day adequately prepared, both physically and mentally, to perform the following duties:

• In conjunction with the Administrators and staff, ensure that the District’s philosophy of education; educational goals and policies are achieved
• Demonstrate competency in individual diagnostic assessment of student’s cognitive, academic and social/emotional skills
• Use diagnostic information to analyze student needs and develop appropriate lesson plans
• Implement all phases of the Individual Education Plan (IEP) as relevant to the classroom
• Participate in the annual review process through evaluation of goals and objectives and planning of the new IEP
• Monitor special education students place in regular education and provide support and assistance to the mainstream program
• Continuously monitor student and group needs and utilize alternative methods and strategies of instruction to meet these needs
• Ensure that State and Federal mandates are followed (i.e. affirmative action, special education)
• Collaborates with the Administration, staff, students and community to develop an efficient, effective and current curriculum that is aligned with state and federal standards and Board policies
• Work with Administration, staff, students and community to acquire needed instructional supplies and equipment
• Ensure that all Board approved programs and curriculum are delivered
• Establish a consistent classroom; instructional schedule and maintain an orderly learning environment
• Monitor the curricular program to ensure that it meets local, state and federal mandates and includes detailed assessment, promotion, retention and reporting procedures
• Develop and implement procedures to maintain a safe learning environment
• In conjunction with the Board, Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, administration, and staff develop and implement a disciplinary policy that meets the requirements of all applicable laws and mandates while preserving the instructional integrity and safety of the classroom
• Collect and maintain adequate record of student progress
• Schedule all mandated testing as required
• Evaluate test data and coordinate an action plan to improve student performance as required
• Establish high expectations and standards for behavior and performance
• Submit required reports as established by the district
• Provide orientation for new students
• Plan for and supervise the activities of a paraprofessional, aide or volunteer if assigned
• Work cooperatively with peers to deliver needed instructional programs and services to students
• In collaborations with administration, develops, implements and maintains instructional budgets
• In conjunction with administration, provide for classroom security through the development, implementation and maintenance of a safety plan
• Assist in the supervision of the use of facilities by staff, students and community groups as appropriate
• Maintain a positive school climate
• Establish procedures for communication between and among the school, home and community
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent and/or Principal

          Physical Demands

·   Frequent travel to school district offices and classrooms

·   Frequent walking throughout various buildings

·   Often sitting at desk for extended periods

• Standing for limited periods of time
• Moderate lifting and carrying from 15 to 30 pounds
• Manual dexterity to use office equipment
• Repetitive movement of fingers and hands for keyboarding

            Evaluation Criteria

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the Board of Education policy on evaluation of Certified Personnel.