Teacher - Special Education; Units Vary - Elementary

Position: Teacher - Special Education (Units Vary) - Elementary - 2025-2026
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title

Special Education Teacher

Department

Campus Based

Reports To

Campus Principal

Compensation

Teacher Pay Scale

Days

187

Revised: 03/17/2025

Apple Unit (Autism), BAC, ECSE, Life Skills, Inclusion/Resource

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

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

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university
• Valid Texas teaching certificate with required special education endorsements for assignment
• Valid Texas Driver's License
• Candidate must have satisfactory outcome of fingerprinting background check. Non-refundable fee (approximately $50.00) paid by the employee.

Special Knowledge/Skills

• Knowledge of special needs of students in assigned areas
• Knowledge of Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee process and Individual Education Plan (IEP) goal setting process and implementation
• Knowledge of how to adapt curriculum and instruction for special needs
• Effective communication skills

Experience

• Student teaching, approved internship, or related work experience

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

(The following statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned and should not be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions that may be assigned or skills that may be required.)

Instructional Strategies

Collaborate with students, parents, and other members of staff to develop IEP through the ARD Committee process for each student assigned.

Implement an instructional, therapeutic, or skill development program for assigned students and show written evidence of preparation as required.

Conduct assessment of student learning styles. Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.

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

Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula as needed and assist special education students in regular classes with assignments.

Participate in ARD Committee meetings on a regular basis.

Participate in selection of books, equipment, and other instructional media.

Student Growth and Development

Conduct ongoing assessments of student achievement through formal and informal testing.

Provide or supervise personal care, medical care, and feeding of students as stated in IEP.

Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by campus principal.

Consult district and outside resource people regarding education, social, medical, and personal needs of students.

Classroom management and Organization

Create classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.

Manage student behavior and administer discipline including intervening in crisis situations and physically restraining students as necessary according to IEP.

Consult with classroom teachers regarding management of student behavior according to IEP.

Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.

Plan and assign the work of teacher aide(s) and volunteer(s) and oversee completion.

Other

Establish and maintain open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals, and teachers.

Maintain professional relationships with parents, students, and colleagues.

Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.

Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, district, and school regulations and policies for special education teachers.

Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required.

Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Maintain a consistent professional demeanor and appearance

Ensure compliance with the Texas Educator's Code of Ethics

Daily attendance and punctuality at work are essential functions of the job

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Supervision and evaluation of District personnel is not a requirement of this position; however, the supervision of students is required. Direct the work of instructional aide(s).

EQUIPMENT USED:

• Office equipment - persona computer, printer, calculator, multi-line telephone, software programs and peripherals, copier, fax, and other equipment applicable to position.
• Communication equipment - radio…