Functional Academics Teacher ( Middle School)

Primary Purpose:

Provide IEP-based learning activities and experiences designed to help students with special needs fulfill their potential for intellectual emotional physical and social growth. Develop and/or modify curricula in order to prepare lessons and other instructional materials to match students ability levels. Work in a self-contained team departmental and/or itinerant capacity as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Bachelors degree from an accredited university

Valid Texas teaching certificate with required special education endorsements for assignments

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Ability to understand and address individualized needs of students assigned

Knowledge of Admission Review and Dismissal (ARD) Committee process and Individual Education Plan (IEP) goal setting and implementation

Knowledge of how to adapt curriculum and instruction to address special needs

Effective communication skills

Experience:

2 years of teaching experience (preferred)

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Instructional Strategies

1. Collaborate with students parents and staff to develop IEPs through the ARD Committee process for each student assigned.
2. Conduct consistent processes of documentation of student progress. Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies activities materials and equipment that effectively support student learning and progress.
3. Present subject matter effectively and according to guidelines established by IEP. Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media including technology to meet the needs and capabilities of each student assigned.
4. Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify curricula as needed and support the learning of students with special needs in general education classes.
5. Create and report progress on individualized standard-based goals/objectives.
6. Participate in ARD Committee meetings and serve as the Case Manager for students assigned.

Student Growth and Development

1. Conduct ongoing assessments of student achievement through formal and informal measures.
2. Consult district and outside resources regarding educational social medical and personal needs of students.

Classroom Management and Organization

1. Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical social medical and emotional development of students.
2. Manage student behavior and administer discipline including intervening in crisis situations and potentially physically restraining students as a last resort in order to maintain safety and well being. Consult with classroom teachers regarding the management of student behavior according to IEP.
3. Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students equipment materials and facilities at all times.
4. Plan and assign the work for teacher aide(s) and volunteer(s) and oversee completion.

Other

1. Maintain professional relationships with parents students and colleagues.
2. Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.
3. Keep informed of and comply with federal state district and school regulations and policies for special education teachers.
4. Compile maintain and file all physical and computerized reports records and other documents required.
5. Utilize equipment and strategies that support student progress including physical supports visual schedules communication boards.
6. Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Direct the work of instructional aide(s).

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals positioning devices assistive technology devices and other instructional equipment

Posture:Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting bending/stooping pushing/pulling and twisting

Motion:Frequent walking and bending

Lifting:May require regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities control behavior through physical restraint assist non-ambulatory students and lift and move adaptive and other classroom equipment; may work prolonged or irregular hours

Environment:Exposure to biological hazards

Mental Demands:Maintain emotional control under stress and a willingness to be collaborative