Position: 

Teacher, Special Education

Supervisor:

Principal

Work Site:

Assigned School

Summary:

To provide guidance and instructional experiences that are academically and developmentally appropriate for each student assigned to that classroom.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Understand and utilize all current laws for special needs students as the guidance for instruction
• Understand and ensure compliance with each Individual Education Program (IEP) for each student on assigned caseload.
• Coordinate and facilitate IEP meetings for students on the assigned caseload including the annual review, reevaluation, and other IEP review meeting.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the content area(s) and approved curriculum.
• Differentiate instructional methods and resources in each area taught. 
• 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.
• Communicate accurately and effectively in the content area and maintain a professional rapport with students.
• Comprehend the principles of student growth, development and learning, and apply them appropriately.
• Obtain feedback from and communicate with students in a manner that enhances student learning and understanding.
• Utilize a variety of teaching methods and resources for each area taught.  Use appropriate techniques, strategies, and materials to achieve the desired instructional goal.  Understand and apply learning theories.
• Encourage the development of student involvement, responsibility, and critical thinking skills.
• Manage classroom to ensure the best use of instructional time.  Develop and implement appropriate classroom management strategies while maintaining high expectations for student behavior.
• Create an atmosphere conducive to learning, self-discipline, and development of realistic and positive self-concepts.  Encourage cooperation among students.
• Maintain accurate and complete records as required by the school district, and report progress or lack thereof to parents in a timely manner.
• Take precautions to protect equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Work productively with administration, colleagues, parents, and community.
• Prepare for instruction and show written evidence of preparation.
• Complete duties (hall, bus, etc.) as assigned.
• Leave adequate preparations for a substitute.
• Use current technology for instruction and management.
• Use diagnostic data to improve instructional programs.
• Report suspected child abuse and neglect.
• Be responsible for students on field trips.
• Act as a good role model within the context of the school.
• May supervise educational assistants and student teachers.
• Attend staff meetings, and serve on committees as necessary. 
• Attend professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops in order to maintain and improve professional competence.
• Accept other responsibilities as deemed necessary by the supervisor, in accordance with board policy and New Mexico state statues.
• Comply with all Board of Education policies, administrative regulations, Public Education Department guidelines and local, state and federal laws.
• Adhere to NM Code of Ethical Responsibility of the Education Profession (NMAC 6.60.9.8)
• Support and comply with grant, program and/or funding source requirements
• Perform additional tasks as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree preferred
• Valid New Mexico teaching license
• PED Endorsements as required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Dine language, culture, and history preferred
• Knowledge and compliance with school Safety Plan
• CPR/First Aid certification within the first 3 months of employment
• CPI Training certification within the first 3 months of employment
• Ability to work well with students, parents and administration
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations and be professional at all times
• Ability to multi-task and work well under pressure

Physical/Job Requirements:

Standing, sitting, walking, lifting, carrying up to 50 pounds, climbing, bending, reaching, kneeling, driving a vehicle, traveling long distances, writing, typing, word processing, reading, researching information, and effective communication skills.

Safety and Health:

• Knowledge of universal hygiene precautions
• Completed and cleared background check
• Pass drug test if required for position
• Knowledge and compliance with district and school Safety Plans

Equipment/Material Handled:

• Multimedia equipment, including current technology
• Equipment/materials relevant to the job responsibilities
• Valid driver license and insurable by district if necessary

Work Environment:

• Must be able to work within various degrees of noise, temperature and air quality
• Work interruptions
• Flexibility
• Must be self-motivated and able to complete job assignment without direct supervision
• Must complete applications and assignments within the timeframes allowed
• Extended work hours, on occasion

Term of Employment:

• Exempt