Position Overview: As the Special Education Teacher, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our special education department. You will develop and teach lessons, provide strategic leadership, ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations, and promote the delivery of high-quality services to students with special needs. Your role will involve collaborating with various stakeholders, including teachers, administrators, parents, and community partners, to create an inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students.
Responsibilities:
Leadership and Strategic Planning: Develop and implement a comprehensive vision and strategic plan for the special education department, aligned with the overall goals of the institution.
Provide strong leadership and guidance to special education staff members, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
Stay abreast of current trends, research, and best practices in special education, and integrate them into program development and improvement efforts.
Program Development and Implementation: Oversee the development and implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with special needs, ensuring they meet legal requirements and address students' unique challenges and goals.
Collaborate with teachers and support staff to design and implement evidence-based instructional strategies and interventions to support students' academic, social, and emotional development.
Monitor the effectiveness of special education programs and services, collecting and analyzing data to inform decision-making and drive continuous improvement.
Compliance and Legal Requirements: Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies related to special education, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including IEPs, assessment data, and progress reports, in accordance with legal requirements and institutional policies.
Coordinate and participate in meetings, evaluations, and audits related to special education services.
Collaboration and Communication: Foster strong relationships and effective communication channels with teachers, administrators, parents, and community partners to ensure collaboration and support for students with special needs.
Collaborate with general education teachers to facilitate inclusive practices and ensure the appropriate accommodations and modifications are provided in the classroom.
Provide guidance and support to parents/guardians, serving as a resource and advocate for students with special needs.
Professional Development and Staff Training: Develop and implement professional development programs and training sessions for special education staff to enhance their knowledge and skills in working with students with special needs.
Stay informed about emerging research, best practices, and advancements in the field of special education, and disseminate relevant information to staff members.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in special education, educational leadership, or a related field (Master's or higher preferred but not required).
Valid teaching certification in special education.
In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations pertaining to special education, including IDEA and Section 504.
Strong understanding of assessment practices, individualized instruction, and evidence-based interventions for students with special needs.
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively with various stakeholders.
Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
Ability to inspire and motivate a team of professionals to achieve exceptional results.
Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in educational settings.
