Elementary Special Education Teacher: DCD Mild to Moderate

SUMMARY:
Creates a classroom environment which fosters learning and personal growth; motivates pupils to develop skills, attitudes and knowledge needed to provide an excellent education, in accordance with each pupil’s ability.
 
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
This class specification lists the major duties and requirements of the job and is not all-inclusive.  Incumbent(s) may be expected to perform job-related duties other than those contained in this document and may be required to have specific job-related knowledge and skills.

• Develops lesson plans and instructional materials; provides individualized and small group instruction to adapt the curriculum to the needs of each pupil.
• Teaches district-approved curriculum.
• Translates lesson plans into developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
• Establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior to achieve an effective learning atmosphere.
• Evaluates pupils’ academic and social growth, keeps appropriate records and in a timely fashion prepares progress reports. Communicates this information regularly with parents.
• Identifies pupil needs and makes appropriate referrals and develops strategies for individual education plans.
• Provides individualized and small group instruction to adapt the curriculum to the needs of the student.
• Maintains a professional day, as defined by school building and contract.
• Communicates regularly with parents outside normal classroom day by means of newsletters, notes, phone calls, e-mails, and conferences.
• Plans and coordinates the work of paraprofessionals and volunteers in the classroom and on field trips.
• Works in a supportive and collaborative manner with colleagues and supervisors.
• Maintains and improves professional skills by participating in building and department meetings, formal coursework, workshops and seminars to stay current with best teaching practices.
• Participates in a personal professional goal-setting process on a regular basis.
• Utilizes assessment and evaluation for the purpose of developing IEP goals and aligning instruction to the individual student needs in a special education classroom setting. 
• Collaborates with regular education teachers in the development of modified and accommodated curriculum to promote student access to the mainstream classroom setting
• Promotes and supports the overall mission of the District by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with public and staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.

 
QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
 
Education and Experience:
 
Bachelor’s degree in education, or a closely related field.
 
Required Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:
Continued employment is contingent upon all required licenses and certificates being maintained in active status without suspension or revocation.
 
Driver’s license.
Valid Minnesota Teaching License
SPED Teacher License
 
Required Knowledge and Skills
 
Required Knowledge:

• Classroom management techniques.
• Best practices and strategies and teaching for varying learning styles and needs.
• Minnesota State Standards.
• Instructional design for students with educational needs in reading and writing, including the delivery of an alternative English curriculum.
• District policies and procedures.
• Disabilities and accommodations.
• Computer applications related to the work.
• Correct business English, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.

 
Required Skills:

• Creating and administering individualized lesson plans.
• Interpreting, and applying state and Federal statutes, codes, rules, and regulations.
• Assessing and prioritizing multiple tasks, projects and demands.
• Operating a personal computer using standard and specialized software.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
• Contributing effectively to the accomplishment of team or work unit goals, objectives and activities.
• Commitment to the District mission, which is to ensure high quality, innovative, challenging education where all learners are valued and respected.
• Performing assigned responsibilities in a manner consistent with the District’s established Core Values.
• Advancing the District’s mission and values through careful attention to the key issues of Learning, Environment, and Resources.

 
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work is performed in a school environment, using standard equipment and stamina to sit for extended periods of time; strength to lift and carry up to 20 pounds; vision to read printed materials and computer screens; and hearing and speech to communicate in person or over the telephone. 
 
 
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed in a school setting. Occasional travel required to locations throughout the District.
 
Hours & Compensation:
FTE: 1.0: 8 hours per day, 40 hours weekly, 185 days per year.
Salary: Per the HEA Contract.