Primary Purpose:

Responsible for the instructional program and guidance of students identified as needing special education services.

Qualifications/Skills:

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor's degree in related field.
• Valid Texas Teacher Certificate.
• ESL Certification required during 1st year if it has not already been obtained.

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Extensive knowledge of effective instructional practices for students with severe cognitive and other developmental disabilities.
• Proficient in developing and implementing effective behavior intervention plans for students with moderate to severe behavior concerns.
• Proficient in collecting data to establish strengths, needs, and goals for specially designed instruction based on enrolled grade level standards and functional needs, as well as progress monitoring.
• Physical capacity to lift, transfer and otherwise assist students with physical disabilities (e.g. ability to lift 50 lbs).
• Trained in de-escalation and restraint techniques as required by the district.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in the effective use of technology.
• Ability to work effectively with both adults and children.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

Instructional Strategies:

• Adhere to the district's philosophy of instruction. Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of district's curriculum program and show written evidence of preparation as required.
• Prepare lessons that reflect accommodations for differences in student learning styles. Present subject matter according to guidelines established by Texas Education Agency, board policies and administrative regulations.
• Participate in the identification/evaluation of learner competencies.
• Recommend appropriate goals/objectives for learner needs.
• Assist in developing/writing students' IEP's.
• Follow specific instructional objectives based on student's learning style.
• Implement new methodologies, philosophies and innovations.  

Student Growth and Development:

• Help students analyze and improve study methods and habits. Conduct ongoing assessment of student achievement through formal and informal testing.
• Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by campus principal.
• Be a positive role model for students and support the mission of school district.
• Assist with needs of students with physical disabilities.

Classroom Management and Organization:

• Create classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social and emotional development of students. Manage student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials and facilities.  Assist in the selection of books, equipment and other instructional materials.
• Attend required meetings and complete required reports.

Communication:

• Establish and maintain open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals and teachers. Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents and community members.
• Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.
• Collaborate with others to provide for learner needs.
• Consult with parents and other appropriate school personnel concerning each student's intellectual, academic social, emotional and physical development.

Professional Growth and Development:

• Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.  Keep informed of and comply with state, district, and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers.
• Compile, maintain and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required.
• Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

Other:

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

                None

Equipment Used:

                Computer, copy machine, and audio visual machines.

Working Conditions:

                Mental Demands:

• Maintain emotional control under stress.
• Work with frequent interruptions.

Physical Demands:

• Frequent standing, stooping, bending, pulling, and pushing.
• Move small stacks of textbooks, media equipment, desk, and other classroom equipment.