Special Education Teacher (K - 8)

POSITION: SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER (GRADES K-8)

Salary: Certified Salary Schedule

Classification: Contract/Exempt

Reports To: School Principal and Director of Special Education

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction of the School Principal and Director of Special Education, the Special Education Teacher (Grades K-8) provides specialized instruction, case management, and support services to students with disabilities in accordance with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The teacher collaborates with families, staff, and service providers to ensure students receive appropriate educational opportunities that support academic achievement, social-emotional growth, independence, and compliance with federal and state special education regulations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide research-based specialized instruction to address the instructional goals and objectives contained within each student's IEP
• Assess student progress and determine the need for additional reinforcement or adjustments to instructional strategies and interventions
• Employ a variety of teaching techniques, instructional methods, accommodations, and modifications to support student success and achievement of IEP goals
• Develop and implement annual Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), including present levels of performance, measurable goals, accommodations, modifications, and related services
• Serve as the case manager for assigned students receiving special education services
• Ensure compliance timelines for evaluations, reevaluations, annual reviews, and progress reporting are met
• Maintain accurate and confidential student records in accordance with IDEA, ESS, FERPA, and district procedures
• Monitor implementation of accommodations, modifications, and related services outlined in student IEPs
• Coordinate communication between families, teachers, related service providers, and administration
• Schedule and facilitate IEP meetings and collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to develop instructional goals and strategies
• Coordinate the delivery of special education services in accordance with each student's IEP
• Create positive, inclusive, and individualized learning environments utilizing instructional and assistive technology tools
• Serve as the primary contact for parents and guardians regarding assigned students
• Conduct special education evaluations and reevaluations in accordance with district, state, and federal guidelines
• Provide direction, supervision, and evaluation input for paraprofessionals and educational assistants as assigned
• Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusion, accommodations, and differentiated instruction
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, professional learning communities, and district trainings
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and district special education laws, regulations, policies, and procedures, including IDEA and Section 504 requirements
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and information in accordance with FERPA guidelines
• Complete all required district and state reporting requirements in a timely and accurate manner

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Establish and maintain appropriate student behavior and classroom management procedures consistent with district expectations
• Promote student responsibility, cooperation, self-advocacy, and mutual respect
• Collaborate and consult with educational professionals, community agencies, and related service providers regarding student needs
• Consult with classroom teachers regarding instructional modifications, adaptive equipment, behavior intervention plans, accommodations, and other supports for students with disabilities
• Utilize data collection and progress monitoring tools to support instructional decision-making
• Support implementation of positive behavior interventions and trauma-informed practices
• Perform other comparable duties as assigned by the Supervisor and/or Administration

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, procedures, and legal requirements of special education
• Thorough knowledge of effective instructional strategies and methodologies for students with disabilities
• Knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, FERPA, and Arizona special education regulations
• Knowledge of behavior intervention strategies and supports for students with behavioral and emotional needs
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, staff, administration, and community agencies
• Ability to analyze student needs and implement appropriate instructional interventions
• Ability to communicate effectively through oral presentations, written reports, and professional correspondence
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation
• Knowledge and effective use of instructional technology and assistive technology tools
• Ability to create safe, inclusive, structured, and trauma-informed learning environments
• Ability to supervise students, paraprofessionals, volunteers, and classroom activities effectively
• Ability to maintain regular attendance and punctuality

PROFESSIONAL EXPECTATIONS

• Maintain professional conduct, ethical behavior, and confidentiality at all times
• Participate in required district professional development, trainings, and meetings
• Support district initiatives, goals, and student achievement efforts
• Demonstrate flexibility, collaboration, and professionalism in working with staff, students, and families

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervises paraprofessionals, educational assistants, students, and volunteers as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's Degree required
• Master's Degree preferred
• Valid Arizona Special Education Teaching Certificate appropriate for assigned grade level and student population
• Valid Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card issued through the Arizona Department of Public Safety
• Experience working with students with diverse learning, behavioral, and emotional needs preferred
• Knowledge of IEP systems, special education compliance procedures, and data collection practices preferred

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Frequent standing, walking, sitting, talking, hearing, reaching, and use of hands for instructional purposes. Occasionally may lift, push, or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Ability to meet multiple demands from several individuals and interact with students, staff, parents, and the public.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Duties are performed in classroom and school settings with quiet to moderate noise levels. Work may occasionally occur outdoors or in varying weather conditions during school activities or supervision assignments.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The District prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals based on race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, national origin, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Employees may be assigned additional responsibilities as necessary to support the District's mission, vision, and goals.

Accepted by: 

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Employee Name (Print)                           Employee Signature                                      Date

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Supervisor Name (Print)                          Supervisor Signature                                      Date