Overview Of Position
A special education classroom teacher performs under the general direction of the building principal or program manager and with assistance from appropriate staff personnel. The teacher fosters and enhances an effective learning environment; establishes and adapts learning objectives and standards for special education students based on district guidelines and the rules governing special education; provides instruction, counsel, discipline, and supervision to meet the individual needs of assigned students; and evaluates student performance and progress.
Essential Functions
* 40% Fosters an educational environment conducive to learning and maturation, plans an instructional program to meet individual student needs, prepares lesson plans, and adapts programs as necessary.
* 15% Uses appropriate instructional methods and materials, implements adapted curriculum, attends in‐service training, and pursues professional growth.
* 10% Establishes classroom policies, provides guidance, counseling, and discipline to encourage standards achievement, and makes referrals when appropriate.
* 5% Confers with students, parents, specialists, and staff, maintaining positive relationships and encouraging achievement.
* 10% Sets classroom goals, evaluates student progress, and prepares reports for parents or guardians.
* 5% Directs non‐certificated personnel to meet student needs and monitors conditions and behaviors.
* 10% Collects and interprets data, implements and evaluates IEPs, and provides administrative reports.
* 5% Attends required staff meetings and other necessary activities for professional achievement.
Other Functions
* Serves on staff committees as required.
* Participates in activities that enhance personal and professional skills.
* Performs related tasks consistent with the position's scope and responsibilities.
* Attends at least one of two annual Special Education Compliance Professional Development days.
Reporting Relationships
Reports to the building Principal.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of: subject areas appropriate to assignment; effective behavior and instructional techniques; student safety rules; and special education regulations.
* Skill in: reading, writing, oral communication; effective communication with diverse families; designing and implementing lesson plans; adapting curricula; and using necessary equipment or software.
* Ability to: handle students positively, maintain fairness with a diverse population, adapt to change, organize activities, manage behavior, maintain a safe environment, instruct and demonstrate techniques, direct assistants, administer first aid/CPR, use non‐verbal communication methods, support students with disabilities, attend to physical and hygienic needs, and build relationships with students, parents, specialists, staff, and administrators.
Working Conditions
The position requires managing a wide range of student achievements and behaviors, handling multiple tasks simultaneously, dealing with interruptions, and coping with diverse disabilities. The teacher may be exposed to routine infectious diseases, bodily fluids, and materials that could cause injury. Physical demands include lifting students or equipment, restraining students when necessary, and working outdoors in varying weather. The job may also involve class instruction without telephone communication.
Typical Qualifications
Education and Experience: • Bachelor's degree with preparation for or experience in teaching culturally, racially, and economically diverse students in an urban setting. • Experience teaching reading and adapting instructional techniques for special education students. • Additional preparation may be required for bilingual work, dropout prevention, or multi‐level classes.
Licenses/Special Requirements
Valid Washington State Teaching Certificate with Special Education Endorsement. Some positions may require valid first aid and CPR certification or a valid Washington State driver's license.
Benefits
Seattle Public Schools benefits are administered by the Washington State Healthcare Authority (HCA) under the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB). Eligibility is based on hours worked during the school year; employees scheduled to work 630 hours or more are eligible.
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