Special Education Teacher job description

A Special Education Teacher is responsible for developing and implementing individualized education programs (IEPs) for students with diverse learning needs, disabilities, or developmental delays. This role is critical to ensuring equitable access to education and helping students achieve academic and social success, ultimately contributing to an inclusive school environment and supporting the institution's compliance with federal education laws.

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What is a Special Education Teacher?

A Special Education Teacher is a certified educator who specializes in working with students who have a wide range of disabilities, learning differences, or special needs. They are trained to adapt general education curricula and use specialized teaching techniques to meet the unique requirements of each student, ensuring that all learners have the opportunity to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally within the school system.

What does a Special Education Teacher do?

Special Education Teachers assess students' abilities and challenges to develop personalized education plans (IEPs). They design and deliver modified lessons, provide one-on-one or small group instruction, and collaborate with general education teachers, parents, and specialists such as speech therapists or psychologists. They also monitor student progress, adjust teaching strategies as needed, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations regarding special education services.

Job Overview

A Special Education Teacher is responsible for developing and implementing individualized education programs (IEPs) for students with diverse learning needs and disabilities. This role involves creating inclusive classroom environments, adapting curriculum materials, and collaborating with general education teachers, parents, and support staff to ensure students achieve their academic and social-emotional goals. The ideal candidate will demonstrate patience, creativity, and a deep commitment to advocating for students with special needs while maintaining compliance with federal and state regulations (IDEA, ADA).

Special Education Teacher responsibilities include:

1. Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to each student's unique needs and goals. 2. Adapt general education curriculum and instructional strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities. 3. Utilize evidence-based interventions and assistive technology to support student learning and accessibility. 4. Conduct ongoing assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instructional approaches accordingly. 5. Collaborate with general education teachers, paraprofessionals, and related service providers (e.g., speech therapists, occupational therapists) to ensure a cohesive support system. 6. Maintain accurate and confidential student records, including IEP documentation, progress reports, and behavioral data. 7. Foster a positive, inclusive classroom environment that promotes social integration and emotional well-being. 8. Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress, challenges, and strategies for support at home. 9. Implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and positive behavior support strategies. 10. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and district special education laws and regulations.
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Must-Have Requirements

1. Bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field from an accredited institution. 2. Valid state teaching certification in Special Education (e.g., Mild/Moderate Disabilities Certification). 3. Minimum of 2 years of experience teaching students with disabilities in a K-12 setting. 4. Demonstrated knowledge of IEP development, implementation, and compliance. 5. Proficiency in differentiated instruction and evidence-based interventions for students with disabilities. 6. Strong understanding of federal and state special education laws (IDEA, Section 504, ADA). 7. Excellent communication and collaboration skills with students, parents, and multidisciplinary teams. 8. Ability to manage diverse behaviors and implement behavior support plans. 9. Classroom management skills tailored to students with special needs. 10. CPR and crisis intervention certification (e.g., CPI, SafetyCare).

Preferred Qualifications

1. Master's degree in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis, or related field. 2. Certification in specific disability areas (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorders, Emotional/Behavioral Disorders). 3. Experience with co-teaching models and inclusion practices in general education settings. 4. Training in trauma-informed care or restorative practices. 5. Proficiency with special education software (e.g., IEP Online, SEIS) and assistive technology tools. 6. Experience working with diverse student populations (e.g., multicultural, multilingual, low socioeconomic status). 7. Background in applied behavior analysis (ABA) or positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS). 8. Knowledge of transition planning for post-secondary education, employment, or independent living. 9. Experience with alternative assessment systems (e.g., portfolios, performance-based assessments). 10. Bilingual skills (Spanish, ASL, or other languages commonly spoken in the community).

Bonus Skills

1. Board Certification in Behavior Analysis (BCBA) or pursuing certification. 2. Experience with specialized instructional approaches (e.g., Orton-Gillingham, TEACCH, Montessori adapted methods). 3. Training in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems (e.g., PECS, Proloquo2Go). 4. Experience mentoring paraprofessionals or student teachers. 5. Published research, presentations, or workshops in special education topics. 6. Grant writing experience for special education funding or program development. 7. Expertise in sensory integration techniques and sensory-friendly classroom design. 8. Certification in multisensory structured language education (e.g., Wilson Reading System). 9. Experience with virtual or hybrid special education instruction platforms. 10. Track record of improving student outcomes on standardized assessments or IEP goal attainment.

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