Special Education Teacher

Urbana School District #116 - Urbana, IL

Full-time - Entry Level

Urbana, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The Special Education Teacher at Urbana High School is tasked with delivering high-quality instruction tailored to the unique needs of students with disabilities. This role emphasizes the importance of frequent assessment and data analysis to inform instructional practices and ensure student growth within a structured and supportive environment. The teacher will collaborate closely with general education teachers, related service personnel, and parents to provide a comprehensive educational experience for each student on their caseload. Additionally, the teacher will serve as a case manager, overseeing the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process, which includes writing IEPs, facilitating meetings, and ensuring that services are provided as required. In this position, the teacher will assess student performance through both formal and informal measures, using the data collected to make informed decisions regarding instruction and IEP goal planning. The teacher is responsible for designing clear and relevant instruction that aligns with the general education curriculum and meets the diverse needs of students. Creating a positive learning environment is essential, where students are engaged in meaningful learning experiences, and staff work collaboratively to support student-centered decision-making. Direct instruction will be provided to students as outlined in their IEPs, and the teacher will monitor progress on academic and functional goals. Collaboration with staff members is crucial to implement necessary accommodations and modifications to ensure students have access to the general education curriculum. The teacher will also train and supervise teaching assistants to effectively meet the needs of all students. Maintaining open communication with parents through various means is vital, as is participating in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge in special education. The role may also involve supporting students with physical needs and participating in special activities such as field trips and vocational programs.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with general education staff, related service personnel, parents, teaching assistants, and students to ensure each student on the caseload receives an appropriate comprehensive education.
• Coordinate the IEP process, including writing the IEP, facilitating IEP meetings, monitoring service provision, and maintaining accurate records.
• Assess students' performance through formal and informal measures and use data for instructional decision-making and IEP goal planning.
• Design clear, well-organized, and relevant instruction aligned to the general education curriculum and students' needs.
• Establish and maintain a learning environment where students are engaged in meaningful learning experiences.
• Provide direct instruction to students as written in the IEP.
• Complete progress monitoring of academic and functional goals.
• Consult and collaborate with staff members about student needs and progress to implement necessary accommodations and modifications.
• Train, monitor, and supervise Teaching Assistants to meet the needs of all students.
• Maintain positive communication with parents through conferences, reports, and IEP meetings.
• Participate in professional development opportunities.
• Support students who require physical assistance as outlined in the IEP.
• Participate in special activities such as field trips and vocational activities.
• Perform other duties and tasks as assigned.

Requirements

• Illinois Educator License, endorsement LBS1
• Two years of school-based experience preferred
• Willingness to become certified in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention and maintain certification.

Nice-to-haves

• Highly organized
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Excellent problem solver

Benefits

• 185-day contract
• Membership in UEA
• Salary according to the Certified Salary Schedule