Scope: The teacher is responsible for the intellectual, social and effective development of students.
The teacher will also plan, prepare and deliver a quality educational program based upon state standards, district curriculum, IEP goals and objectives, and effective instruction to students with diverse needs.
The teacher will also insure that all programs, materials and practices within the classroom are free from gender and minority bias and discrimination, and are in keeping with the letter and spirit of Title IX and Affirmative Action policies adopted by the Board of Education.
The teacher is directly responsible to the Principal of the school, and is evaluated and supervised by the supervisor of special education.
This evaluation is based upon basic tenets of good teaching which are found in each teacher's respective job description and the Connecticut Teaching Competencies.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Implement effective teaching practices for the purpose of facilitating communication, language, academic achievement, behavior management, and social skills for each student.
Plan and provide clear and intentional focused instruction based upon individual student IEP goals and objectives using state standards, subject matter content and district curriculum.
Uses diagnostic instruments to measure students progress within a planned program.
Administers specialized test instruments and interprets results.
Recognize individual student learning needs and develop strategies to address those needs for the purpose of promoting individual achievement.
Foster and manage a safe, positive learning environment for the purpose of promoting effective student behavior and success.
Develop and collaborate on appropriate IEPs for students based off of FBAs, and BIPs.
Use multiple student data elements for the purpose of assessing student progress, modifying instruction, administering the required State Alternative Assessment, and improving student learning.
Maintain and submit information/records including student progress.
Maintain and process accurate records/documents as required by State and Federal regulations and district policy, including annual IEPs, IEP progress data and progress reports.
Collaborate and consult with general education teachers for purpose of providing specially-designed instruction (SDI), accommodation, and modifications in order for students to access the general education curriculum.
Communicate and collaborate with parents and school community for the purpose of fostering student success and achievement, and meeting special education laws and policies.
Utilize effective de-escalation and therapeutic physical intervention strategies, as needed.
Function as an effective member of a Multi-Disciplinary Team and consult with relevant outside service providers.
Participate in and facilitate various meetings for the purpose of addressing student goals and needs, and to meet laws and policies.
Meetings may include school and department, manifestation determination, eligibility, evaluation and placement.
Plan and direct the work of assigned classified staff.
Assists paraprofessionals in resolving the unique behavioral and educational needs of each student.
Assists other staff members in resolving the unique psychological or disciplinary needs of each student.
Implement and comply with District policies and the Code of Professional Conduct.
Maintain consistent attendance and conform to regular work hours specified under contract.
All other responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor.
JOB REQUIREMENTS; MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Skills, Knowledge and Abilities required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: Knowledge of and skills in using various formative and summative assessments.
Ability to effectively address a wide range of academic and social needs including at-risk, cultural diversity, English language learners, and special education students.
Knowledge and skill in designing and conducting specialized instruction, remediation, and evaluation.
Skills in managing and promoting positive student behavior.
Knowledge of and ability to effectively meet students' developmental needs.
Ability to interact and collaborate positively and effectively with parents, students, staff and administrators.
Knowledge of applicable Connecticut State and federal rules and regulations.
Knowledge of subject matter/course content relevant to assignment.
Knowledge and understanding of child development.
Knowledge and understanding of sensory integration needs and strategies.
Ability to effectively meet developmental needs of students.
Knowledge of and skills in using effective instructional strategies and practices.
Knowledge of effective research-based curricula and practices in academic, behavior, and social skills areas.
Ability to effectively communicate in verbal and written formats with a variety of constituents.
Skills and abilities in organization, time management, and record keeping.
Ability to operate technology devices and specific software programs.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Ability and commitment to engage in relevant professional development in order to strengthen job-related competencies.
PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Experience Successful experience as a special education teacher preferred Second language or language acquisition background preferred Student cultural and economic diversity experience, preferred Education/Certifications Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university.
Must possess or be eligible to possess Connecticut State certification with appropriate endorsement(s) (065, 165)