Special Education Teacher

Cuba Independent School District - Cuba, NM

Cuba, NM

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing special education students with learning activities and experiences designed to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. This includes developing or modifying curricula and preparing lessons and other instructional materials tailored to student ability levels. The teacher will work in various capacities such as self-contained, team, departmental, or itinerant as assigned. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with students, parents, and other staff to develop IEPs for each student assigned.
• Implement instructional, therapeutic, or skill development programs for assigned students and provide written evidence of preparation as required.
• Plan and use appropriate instructional strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students.
• Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula and assist special education students in regular classes.
• Provide case management and participate/conduct IEP meetings regularly.
• Conduct assessments of student learning styles and use results to plan instructional activities.
• Present subject matter according to guidelines established by IEP.
• Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media to meet the needs of each student.
• Plan and supervise assignments for teacher aides.
• Use technology in the teaching/learning process.
• 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.
• Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the development of students.
• Manage student behavior and administer discipline, including intervening in crisis situations.
• Consult with classroom teachers regarding management of student behavior according to IEP.
• Consult district and outside resource people regarding education, social, medical, and personal needs of students.
• Take necessary precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Assist in the selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.
• Establish and maintain open communication with parents, students, principals, and teachers.
• Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents, and community members.
• Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.
• Participate in activities to improve transition skills.
• Comply with federal, state, district, and school regulations and policies for special education teachers.
• Compile, maintain, and file all required reports, records, and documents.
• Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.
• Maintain confidentiality.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited university.
• A valid New Mexico teaching certificate or special education endorsements for assignments.
• Demonstrated competency in the subject area(s) assigned.

Nice-to-haves

• English as a Second Language (TESOL) Certification preferred.
• Gifted and Talented Certification preferred.