GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION:

At the applicable licensure level, the special education teacher will provide guidance and instructional experiences that are academically and developmentally appropriate for each student assigned to that classroom.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A bachelor’s degree.
• A valid New Mexico teaching license with endorsements as needed.
• Highly Qualified Status
• Must be able to pass employment verification.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Sitting, standing, lifting, and carrying (up to 50 pounds), reaching, climbing, squatting, kneeling, and moving light furniture may be required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Accurately demonstrate knowledge of the content area and approved curriculum.
• Appropriately utilize a variety of teaching methods and resources for each area taught.
• Communicate with and obtain feedback from students in a manner that enhances student learning and understanding.
• Comprehend the principles of student growth, development, and learning, and apply them appropriately.
• Utilize student assessment techniques and procedures.
• Manage the educational setting in a manner that promotes positive student behavior and a safe and healthy environment.
• Recognize student diversity and create an atmosphere conducive to the promotion of positive student involvement and self-concept.
• Demonstrate a willingness to examine and implement change, as appropriate.
• Work productively with colleagues, parents, and community members.
• Meet professional requirements and responsibilities.
• Supervise paraprofessionals assigned to the classroom.
• Complete other tasks as deemed appropriate by the immediate supervisor and/or the superintendent.
• Comply with Ethical Responsibility of the Education Profession Standards of Professional Conduct and Code of Ethics.
• Understand and participate in the development, use, and implementation of individualized education plans (IEP’s) and individualized transition plans/504 plans, and implement modifications per IEP/504 in the classroom.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Communicate accurate and up-to-date information to students in a way that enhances student learning.
• Manage time appropriately.
• Cooperate with administration, parents, and co-workers.
• Create a positive atmosphere and arrange the physical environment of the classroom for optimum learning.
• Prepare for instruction and show written evidence of preparation,
• Take precautions to protect equipment} materials, and facilities.
• Maintain accurate and complete records as required by the school district, and report progress or lack thereof to parents in a timely manner.
• Attend and participate in on-site and district meetings.
• Complete duties (hall, bus, etc.) as assigned.
• Leave adequate preparations for a substitute.
• Develop and implement appropriate classroom management strategies while maintaining high expectations for student behavior.
• Encourage cooperation between students.
• Maintain student involvement in appropriate tasks.
• Use and apply appropriate conflict resolution skills.
• Demonstrate public relations skills.
• Use appropriate techniques, strategies, and materials to achieve the desired instructional goal.
• Adapt the curriculum to meet the needs of individual students.
• Use current technology for instruction and management purposes.
• Use data to improve instructional program.
• Be available to parents, students, administration, and peers outside the school day if needed.
• Report suspected child abuse and neglect.
• Be responsible for students on field trips.