Southwest

Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students’ specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Essential Functions

Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.
Participates in PPT’s and assists in developing Individual Educational Plans (“IEP”) for students.
Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students’ IEP’s and behavior management plans.
Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student’s abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with social work services.
Serves as ready resource to students and parents to provide counseling that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as liaison between home and school.
Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing student information to prospective colleges and employers, as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
Encourages parental involvement in students’ education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
Assists in the orientation of new teachers, and provides in-service training in guidance.
Selects and requisitions appropriate books, aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.
Develops and administers school curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives.
Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences so as to best utilize the available time for instruction
Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student’s needs, conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.
Instructs students in the principles of responsible citizenship and other subject matters specified in applicable laws, as well as administrative regulations and procedures of the school system.
Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
Encourages parental involvement in students’ education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
Ensures that student conduct conforms with the school’s standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.
Coordinates with other professional staff members to evaluate and assess curriculum, and participates in faculty meetings and committees.
Selects and requisitions appropriate books, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.
Supervises students in activities that take place out of the classroom during the school day, including activities involving school transportation.
Administers standardized tests in accordance with District testing programs.
Regular attendance is required and essential for this position.
Additional Duties
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities.  It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Equipment
Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travel Requirements
Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.
Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
Ability to organize and coordinate work.
Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
Works in standard office and school building environments.
Note:   Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position.

Qualifications Profile

Certification/License: State Certification as a Special Education Teacher.
Motor Vehicle Operator’s License or ability to provide own transportation.
Education: Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
Masters Degree in Special Education.
Experience:
Successful prior special education teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.
FLSA Status: Exempt

Equal Employment Opportunity
It is the policy of the Worthington School District to provide equal employment opportunity for all, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, disability, sexual orientation or age.