TEACHER: SPECIAL EDUCATION CROSS CAT

Albuquerque Public Schools - Albuquerque, NM

Full-time - Entry Level

Albuquerque, NM

Educational Services

About the position

The Teacher: Special Education Cross Cat position is designed to create a flexible and supportive learning environment that fosters personal growth and development among students with diverse needs. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive program of instruction that aligns with the individual needs, interests, and abilities of students, while adhering to the standards set by the State Department of Education and the APS Board of Education. This role emphasizes the importance of integrating the affective, cognitive, and psychomotor dimensions of learning, ensuring that students not only acquire knowledge but also develop positive self-esteem and interpersonal skills. In this role, the teacher will guide the learning process towards achieving curriculum goals by establishing clear objectives for lessons, assignments, units, and projects. The teacher will employ instructional methods and materials that are most appropriate for meeting these objectives, while also maintaining a functional learning atmosphere through effective behavior management strategies. Regular evaluation of student progress is essential, and the teacher will be responsible for prescribing effective learning programs and making referrals to appropriate personnel when necessary. Communication with students and parents regarding academic, social, and behavioral progress is a key component of this position, as is the creation of a classroom environment conducive to learning. The teacher will also be involved in the selection and maintenance of instructional materials, providing guidance for substitute teachers, and supervising classroom aides and volunteers. Participation in IEP meetings is crucial to ensure that the educational goals outlined in each student's IEP are met within the classroom setting. Overall, this position requires a dedicated educator who is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational experience for all students.

Responsibilities

• Cooperate in the development and implementation of the district program of instruction.
• Plan and implement a program of study that meets the individual needs, interests, and abilities of students.
• Guide the learning process toward the achievement of curriculum goals.
• Establish clear objectives for all lessons, assignments, units, and projects in harmony with curriculum goals.
• Employ instructional methods and materials appropriate for meeting stated objectives.
• Establish and maintain standards of appropriate student behavior and discipline.
• Evaluate the learning progress of students on a regular basis.
• Prescribe effective learning programs and initiate referrals to appropriate personnel when concerns arise.
• Assess the accomplishments of students and provide progress reports as required.
• Administer standardized tests in accordance with the district testing program.
• Establish and maintain open lines of communication with students and parents concerning academic, social, and behavioral progress.
• Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interests of students.
• Meet and instruct assigned classes in designated locations and times.
• Select and request appropriate books and instructional materials and maintain inventory records.
• Provide directions and materials for substitute teachers and supervise classroom aides, guests, and volunteers.
• Cooperate with staff and support personnel in assessing and helping students with health, attitude, learning, and behavioral problems.
• Participate in all IEP meetings and ensure educational goals of the IEP are met.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree.
• Current New Mexico teaching certificate endorsed in the area(s) to be taught.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Flexibility, organization, decision making, and problem solving skills.
• Interpersonal skills with diverse populations in-person and on the telephone.
• Knowledge of APS community, computer system, financial procedures, and legal requirements.
• Ability to meet deadlines, work on multiple projects, and coordinate the work of others.
• Knowledge of district policies on immunization, medication, first aid, emergencies, and child abuse/neglect.
• Knowledge of all laws, regulations, and guidelines affecting teachers and students.
• Knowledge of effective classroom management techniques.
• Ability to maintain positive relationships with students, parents, community members, and staff.