Special Education Teacher - IDEA Parmer Park College Prep (Immediate Opening)

$48,000 - $48,000/Yr

IDEA Public Schools - Austin, TX

Full-time - Entry Level

Austin, TX

Educational Services

About the position

The role of a Special Education Teacher at IDEA Public Schools is pivotal in ensuring the academic success and support of students with diverse learning needs. These educators are tasked with working closely with students who have a range of disabilities, including learning, cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges. The primary objective is to help these students close educational gaps of two or more years within a single school year. This involves not only teaching core subjects such as reading, writing, and math but also providing a crucial link between the school environment and the students' homes, fostering a supportive atmosphere for families and students alike. IDEA Special Education teachers are expected to set ambitious goals for their students and meticulously track their progress through data-driven decisions. They are committed to continuous improvement in their teaching practices, actively seeking feedback to enhance their effectiveness. The role requires a strong dedication to ensuring that every student masters the necessary academic, behavioral, and social skills to succeed in college, while also embodying the core values of IDEA Public Schools. In addition to teaching responsibilities, Special Education teachers are responsible for developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to the unique needs of their students. They must assess student performance, update IEPs regularly, and communicate progress with parents and other stakeholders. The position demands a collaborative approach, working alongside general education teachers, counselors, and administrators to support students' transitions and overall educational experience. The environment is dynamic, requiring adaptability and a proactive approach to meet the diverse needs of students.

Responsibilities

• Adapt lessons to meet the needs of students.
• Develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for a caseload of 12-15 students.
• Implement IEPs, assess students' performance, and track their progress.
• Update IEPs throughout the school year to reflect students' progress and goals.
• Assess students' skills to determine their needs and to develop teaching plans.
• Teach Critical Student Intervention (CSI) small groups consisting of students that are academically at risk in reading and/or math.
• Collect and analyze student data to make effective decisions to maximize achievement.
• Discuss students' progress with parents, teachers, counselors, and administrators.
• Prepare and help students transition from grade to grade and after graduation.
• Implement state learning standards and IDEA curricula and assessments to meet ambitious academic expectations.
• Submit weekly lesson plans two weeks in advance for feedback.
• Implement formal and informal assessments to track each individual student's progress and learning needs, adjust lesson plans accordingly and update gradebook weekly.
• Communicate students' progress with students and families on a weekly basis.
• Implement a clear and consistent behavior management system that aligns with campus-wide initiatives.
• Help shape and develop a school-wide culture that fosters a productive and enthusiastic learning environment for each student.
• Establish and maintain a cooperative working relationship with students and families based on trust, understanding, and respect.
• Host necessary tutoring sessions to meet all students' needs.
• Participate in weekly manager check-ins, grade-level meetings, and school-wide functions.
• Engage in summer and year-long district, school, and personal learning and development.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four-year educational institution.
• Experience in a Special Education classroom setting strongly preferred.
• Valid Texas state certification in Special Education required.

Nice-to-haves

• Currently pursuing certification or willing to enroll in a certification program.
• Knowledge of core academic subjects assigned.
• Knowledge of curriculum and instruction.
• Ability to instruct students and manage student behavior.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to adjust and adapt to a multitude of situations in the school environment.
• Ability to facilitate Admission, Review and Dismissal meetings.
• Strong family engagement and communication skills.
• Record of results for students who are academically at risk.

Benefits

• Paid Family Leave: Eligible staff may receive up to 8 weeks of paid leave for the birth or adoption of a child.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Staff members may apply for up to 50% of tuition paid toward a qualifying degree program, up to $5,250 maximum per year.
• Employer-Paid Mental/Behavioral Health: 5 face-to-face counseling sessions within a year, unlimited 24/7 telephonic counseling, and other work-life services available at no cost.
• Comprehensive benefits plan covering the majority of employee premium for the base medical plan.
• Dental and vision plans, disability, life insurance, parenting benefits, flexible spending account options, generous vacation time, referral bonuses, professional development, and a 403(b) plan.
• Potential relocation allowance to defray the cost of moving for this role.