2024-2025 Special Education Teacher (Deaf Hard of Hearing)

Richmond County School System - Augusta, GA

Full-time - Entry Level

Augusta, GA

About the position

The Special Education Teacher for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students at Richmond County School System plays a crucial role in providing direct instruction and support to students with disabilities. Under the guidance of the school principal and special education director, the teacher collaborates with general education teachers to create an inclusive learning environment. This position involves acting as the lead facilitator in the development of Individual Education Programs (IEPs) and ensuring all necessary documentation is completed for effective implementation. The teacher is responsible for fostering an atmosphere conducive to the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development of students, ensuring success for every individual. In addition to direct instruction, the teacher supervises students in various school-related settings, monitors and evaluates student outcomes, and communicates effectively with students, parents, staff, and the community. The role requires the development, selection, and modification of instructional plans and materials tailored to meet the diverse needs of all students, particularly those with disabilities. The teacher also participates in professional development activities to enhance their instructional knowledge and practices, ensuring they remain informed about changes in educational policy and best practices. The Special Education Teacher is expected to maintain accurate records as required by law and school policy, assist in implementing school policies governing student conduct, and establish positive relationships with colleagues, students, parents, and the community. The teacher's responsibilities also include planning and supervising the work of paraprofessionals and volunteers, evaluating their performance, and participating in school management and committees. Overall, this position is vital in supporting students with disabilities and ensuring they receive a quality education that meets their unique needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct instruction and instructional support to students with disabilities.
• Prepare for IEP/RTI team meetings and manage cases for assigned students with disabilities.
• Interpret classroom-based assessments to make instructional decisions and collect data on student performance.
• Select and adapt materials to assist students with disabilities in accessing the general education curriculum.
• Participate in professional development activities to advance knowledge in instruction and best practices.
• Supervise and plan for the professional development of paraprofessionals assigned to the classroom.
• Provide an instructional program that meets the needs of all students, including those with disabilities.
• Review students with learning disabilities regularly and provide input for IEPs as necessary.
• Ensure safety precautions are taken to protect students and materials.
• Maintain accurate and complete records as required by law and school policy.
• Assist in implementing policies governing student life and conduct, and maintain order in the classroom.
• Be available to students and parents for education-related purposes outside the instructional day when required.
• Establish relationships with colleagues, students, parents, and the community that reflect respect for every individual.
• Plan and supervise assignments for instructional assistants and volunteers.
• Evaluate paraprofessional job performance with department heads or administrators.
• Appraise personal effectiveness and strive to maintain and improve professional competence.
• Participate in school management and share responsibility for the total school program.
• Attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required.
• Meet deadlines for annual reviews and eligibility redetermination.
• Assist students with other needs such as toileting and feeding as appropriate.
• Provide necessary health services to enable students to benefit from educational services.
• Complete all required paperwork according to compliance and within the given timeframe.
• Maintain fair and accurate grading policies and procedures, attendance, and communication through technology.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in special education or pursuing special education certification in a content area.
• Knowledge of learning theory, differentiated instruction, developmental reading, child development, behavior management, and assessment.
• Experience in teaching students with disabilities, preferably in the specific area of exceptionality.
• Knowledge of the RCSS curriculum for the grade/content range of the position and the RCSS special education program.
• Ability to adapt instructional programs and materials appropriately and collect instructional data for decision-making.
• Excellent communication skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with diagnostic programs such as Ed Performance, Riverdeep, and Compass Learning.
• Two years of teaching experience in the specific area of exceptionality (learning disabilities, mental retardation, autism spectrum disorder, or emotional disabilities).

Benefits

• Salary in accordance with RCBOE Salary Schedules
• 10-month work year
• Professional development opportunities
• Supportive work environment with collaboration among staff and administration