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Special Education Teacher Responsibilities

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As a special education teacher , you are responsible for educating children who have individual special needs due to a wide range of disabilities.

While many of your responsibilities fall under general educator duties, several of your day-to-day tasks include modifications and accommodations specific to the field of special education. 

To understand the full scope of the different special education teacher responsibilities, it’s helpful to begin with who these important educators serve.

Who Special Education Teachers Serve

Special education educators often serve kids in multiple grade levels, though many typically work with either elementary students or secondary students at middle or high schools. However, in Texas, special education teachers are certified in grades EC (early childhood) through 12. 

While every child is unique, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act breaks disabilities into 13 categories: 

• Specific learning disability (SLD) - e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia
• Other health impairments - e.g., ADHD
• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• Emotional disturbance - e.g., obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar
• Speech or language impairment
• Visual impairment / blindness
• Hearing impairment
• Deaf-blindness
• Orthopedic impairment
• Intellectual disability
• Traumatic brain injury
• Multiple disabilities

It’s important to note that some of the disabilities above are divided into separate categories when they may otherwise be linked together. For example, deafness and hearing impairment have their own categories since they require very different interventions for children with disabilities in a special education classroom.

The primary role of a special education teacher is to work with students who have learning, mental, emotional or physical disabilities. This type of specialized teacher takes general education lessons and adapts them to meet students’ needs. 

A special education teacher often teaches these lessons to students who have mild to moderate disabilities, but also may teach basic skills to students with more severe disabilities. Special education teachers are found in both public schools and private schools.

While your responsibilities may place you in a general education classroom working side-by-side with a classroom teacher, you may also have your own classroom that has a lower teacher-to-student ratio. Your responsibilities may also entail tutoring special needs students privately.

Another main responsibility of a special education teacher is to develop and implement a student’s individualized education program, or IEP . This is a legal document that helps determine the exact mix of general and specialized education a student should receive. 

You will work with a committee of educators, social workers and other experts, along with the student’s parents, to draft the IEP and update it throughout the year based on the student’s progress. To create and maintain an IEP, you will need to perform routine assessments of a child’s skills, both academically and socially. 

In addition to creating and maintaining IEPs, other unique responsibilities of a special education teacher include:

• Applying a variety of special education skills and techniques to reach students in different ways
• Teach and reinforce socially-acceptable behaviors to students who may struggle interacting with others
• Keep accurate information about student progress that can be helpful during routine special education assessments
• Collaborate with general education teachers and other specialists like speech therapists, occupational therapists, social workers and physical therapists
• Serve as an advocate for a student with a disability
• Help promote inclusive classrooms
• Providing approved testing assistance during standardized exams

Additional Teacher Responsibilities

These responsibilities include:

• Creating lesson plans
• Providing direct and indirect instruction
• Creating a supportive and positive learning environment
• Encouraging students to be curious, investigate and explore their own ways of interacting with the world
• Meeting with parents to discuss how all parties can support the child
• Keeping accurate records of how a child excels and where the child may need additional help
• Recording student performance
• Performing regular testing and assessments
• Researching and developing new teaching methods and materials
• Performing daily administrative tasks

To renew a teaching credential in Texas, you also have the responsibility of meeting continuing professional education (CPE) requirements. Examples of continuing education activities should be related to your special education certificate that is being renewed and can include professional development activities like workshops, conferences and in-service or staff development given by an approved registered provider.

How To Become A Special Education Teacher

If you’re considering becoming a special education teacher, it’s important to ACT NOW . In Texas, testing requirements are constantly changing, and in just a year or two it could become significantly more time-consuming and complicated to earn your Texas teacher certification .

A popular option for those who have already earned their bachelor’s degree and want to change careers is enrolling in an alternative teacher certification program . This type of Educator Preparation Program (EPP) offers you a path toward state-issued certification by enrolling in online or in-person courses or a combination of both. 

Once enrolled in a teacher certification program, you will:

• Set up an account with Texas Education Agency (TEA)
• Undergo a background check
• Start your training to learn how to work with special ed students (you’ll need a minimum of 300 hours of training)
• Take your special education content exam to get your intern certificate
• Find and complete a student teaching internship that provides you with real-world experience
• Finish up your training and take final certification exams
• Apply for a standard special ed certification
• Begin job hunting for employment in school districts

Working with a quality teacher preparation program that treats you as an individual and not just a number is key to having a successful journey and completing your teacher certification in a timely manner. Our article, Best Online School For Teaching Credential: 5 Program Musts , outlines what you should look for in a top program so that you can rest assured your teaching future is in good hands.

Topics: Teaching Jobs

Written by Scott Fikes

Scott is the Deputy Executive Director and Program Consultant. Scott earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from Texas Woman's University and a Master of Education from Texas Woman's University. Scott has extensive experience in both the classroom and as an administrator in districts in North Texas.

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Special Education Teachers: Roles and Responsibilities

Introduction

Importance of special education teachers in the education system.

Special education teachers play a vital role in the education system by ensuring that students with disabilities, learning differences, and special needs receive the support and accommodations they require to succeed academically and socially. These dedicated educators are equipped with specialized training and expertise to address the unique learning challenges of students with diverse abilities. By fostering inclusive learning environments, they enable every student to access quality education and reach their full potential. The impact of special education teachers goes beyond the classroom, as they collaborate with parents, administrators, and other professionals to create personalized education plans and provide ongoing support for students' growth.

In this comprehensive blog, we will examine the roles and responsibilities of special education teachers, shedding light on their crucial contributions to the education system. From defining the role of special education teachers in educational settings to exploring their qualifications and training requirements, this blog offers valuable insights into the essential aspects of their profession. We will also discuss the various responsibilities they undertake, including conducting assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs) , collaborating with stakeholders, and managing behavioral challenges. Additionally, we will explore the concept of inclusive education and classroom adaptations, highlighting strategies for supporting students with diverse learning needs in mainstream classrooms. We aim to provide a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of special education teaching while emphasizing the significance of supporting these educators to create an inclusive and empowering learning environment for all students.

What is a Special Education Teacher?

Role in educational settings.

Special education teachers are highly trained professionals who play a crucial role in providing individualized support and instruction to students with disabilities, learning differences, and special needs. These dedicated educators work in various educational settings, including public and private schools, specialized learning centers, and inclusion classrooms. Their primary objective is to ensure that every student, regardless of their unique learning differences and challenges, has equal access to quality education and opportunities for academic and social growth.

Special education teachers employ a student-centered approach, tailoring instruction and accommodations to meet each individual's specific needs. They collaborate closely with students, parents, general education teachers, and other specialists to develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). These personalized plans outline specific learning goals , services, and accommodations required to support the student's educational journey effectively. Additionally, special education teachers may work with students in small groups or on a one-to-one basis, providing specialized instruction and interventions to address academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.

Qualifications and Training Requirements

Becoming a special education teacher requires a specific set of qualifications and training. To pursue a career in this field, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in special education or a related field. Some educators may choose to specialize further by earning a master's degree or additional certifications in areas such as autism spectrum disorders or learning disabilities.

In addition to academic qualifications, special education teachers must obtain state-level teaching credentials or licensure to work in public schools. Requirements for licensure vary from state to state, but most entail completing a teacher preparation program, passing standardized tests, and completing a designated period of supervised teaching experience.

Continuous professional development is also a vital aspect of a special education teacher's career. To stay abreast of the latest research, instructional methodologies, and best practices in the field, educators participate in workshops, conferences, and training sessions. By continually expanding their knowledge and skills, special education teachers ensure they are equipped to provide the highest level of support and advocacy for their students with disabilities.

Roles and Responsibilities of Special Education Teachers

Individualized instruction and curriculum adaptation.

One of the primary responsibilities of special education teachers is to provide individualized instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of their students. They carefully assess each student's strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles to tailor their teaching approaches accordingly. Special education teachers adapt the general curriculum to accommodate various learning challenges and ensure that all students can access and engage with the material effectively. By using differentiated instructional strategies and providing necessary accommodations, they create inclusive and supportive learning environments for their students.

Conducting Assessments and Identifying Learning Needs

Special education teachers are skilled in conducting various assessments to gauge their students' academic and developmental progress. They use formal and informal evaluations to identify specific learning needs and gather valuable data to inform their instructional planning. Through ongoing assessment, special education teachers can help determine a student's current level of functioning, track their growth, and identify areas where additional support is required. These assessments play a crucial role in the development of personalized learning goals and help ensure that every student receives the appropriate level of support to succeed academically and socially.

Developing and Implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)

Creating and implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) is a central aspect of a special education teacher's role. Working collaboratively with the student, their parents, general education teachers, and other specialists, they develop comprehensive IEPs that outline specific academic and behavioral goals, as well as the necessary accommodations and services to support the student's progress. Special education teachers regularly monitor and adjust the IEPs based on ongoing assessment data, ensuring that the plans remain relevant and effective in addressing the student's changing needs.

Collaborating with Students, Parents, Teachers, and Support Staff

Effective collaboration is vital for the success of students with disabilities, and special education teachers are at the forefront of this effort. They maintain open lines of communication with parents, providing regular updates on their child's progress and discussing strategies for continued growth. Special education teachers also collaborate with general education teachers and support staff to promote inclusion and ensure that students receive the appropriate support in the general classroom setting. Special education teachers also collaborate closely with their students to develop personalized learning strategies and create an inclusive and supportive educational experience tailored to each student's unique needs and strengths. Through these collaborative efforts, special education teachers foster a supportive and cohesive educational community that prioritizes the well-being and success of all students.

Supporting General Education Teachers and Fostering Inclusive Classrooms

In addition to their direct work with students, special education teachers play a vital role in supporting general education teachers within the school community. They provide valuable insights and expertise to help general education teachers effectively accommodate and differentiate instruction for students with diverse learning needs in inclusive classrooms. Special education teachers collaborate with their peers to share best practices, instructional strategies, and resources, fostering an environment of mutual learning and professional growth. By working hand in hand with general education teachers, special education teachers contribute to a cohesive and inclusive educational approach that benefits all students in the school.

Monitoring Student Progress and Providing Supportive Feedback

Special education teachers closely monitor their students' progress throughout the school year. They collect data on academic achievements, social skills development, and behavioral improvements to assess the effectiveness of instructional strategies and interventions. This data-driven approach allows them to make informed decisions about instructional adjustments and identify areas where additional support may be needed. Moreover, special education teachers offer constructive feedback and encouragement to their students, cultivating a positive and growth-oriented learning environment that boosts students' confidence and motivation to succeed.

Managing Behavioral Challenges and Promoting Positive Behavior

In addition to academic support, special education teachers play a vital role in addressing behavioral challenges and promoting positive behavior in their students. They employ evidence-based strategies to manage behavior, create behavior intervention plans, and teach self-regulation and coping skills. By fostering a positive and nurturing classroom environment, special education teachers help students develop appropriate social behaviors, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution skills. Through their guidance and support, students learn to navigate social interactions effectively and develop crucial life skills that contribute to their overall success and well-being.

Inclusive Education and Classroom Adaptations

Strategies for inclusion of students with disabilities.

Inclusive education is a fundamental aspect of a special education teacher's role. They work closely with general education teachers to ensure that students with disabilities are integrated into regular classrooms and receive the necessary support to thrive. Special education teachers collaborate with their colleagues to develop differentiated teaching strategies that accommodate diverse learning needs. These strategies may involve providing additional resources, adjusting instructional methods, or offering flexible assessments to accommodate individual learning styles and abilities.

Differentiation and Modification Techniques

Special education teachers excel in using differentiation and modification techniques to meet the unique needs of each student in the inclusive classroom. They tailor lesson plans and materials to address various learning profiles, making content accessible and comprehensible to all students. Through differentiation, they provide varied approaches to learning, allowing students to engage with the curriculum in ways that align with their strengths and interests. Moreover, modification techniques are employed to adapt the complexity and depth of content, enabling students with disabilities to actively participate in the learning process and achieve academic success.

Creating Accessible Learning Environments

An essential aspect of fostering inclusive classrooms is creating accessible learning environments. Special education teachers collaborate with school staff and administrators to implement physical and instructional adaptations that support students with disabilities. They ensure classrooms are equipped with appropriate assistive technologies and provide accessible materials for students with sensory impairments or other specific needs. Additionally, they guide general education teachers in fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere where all students feel valued and respected, fostering an inclusive educational experience for everyone.

Special Education Teachers and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

Implementing response to intervention (rti) frameworks.

Special education teachers play a pivotal role in implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) within the Response to Intervention (RTI) framework. They collaborate with general education teachers, school psychologists , and other support staff to design and implement tiered interventions that address students' varying academic and behavioral needs. Through early identification and ongoing progress monitoring, special education teachers use data-driven decision-making to identify students who may benefit from additional support and implement targeted interventions to address their specific challenges.

Supporting Students in Tiered Interventions

Within the MTSS, special education teachers provide direct support to students across all tiers of intervention. In Tier 1, they support the general education classroom by providing differentiation and accommodations to meet the diverse needs of students. In Tier 2, they deliver targeted interventions to small groups of students who require more specialized support to close learning gaps and improve academic and behavioral outcomes. In Tier 3, they work intensively with individual students who need more individualized and intensive interventions to overcome significant challenges. Special education teachers collaborate with other professionals to ensure a cohesive and integrated support system that empowers all students to succeed academically and socially.

As key team members within the MTSS, special education teachers facilitate the effective implementation of interventions and provide valuable insights to optimize the overall support structure for students. Their expertise in evidence-based practices and individualized instruction plays a vital role in fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment that ensures each student reaches their full potential.

Assisting Students with Transition Planning

Preparing students for post-school life.

Special education teachers play a crucial role in assisting students with disabilities in preparing for life after high school. Transition planning is a critical aspect of their responsibilities, focusing on helping students smoothly transition from the school environment to post-school life, whether it be college , vocational training, employment, or other community-based opportunities. Special education teachers work closely with students, their families, and other stakeholders to identify students' strengths, interests, and preferences. Through person-centered planning, they develop individualized transition plans that align with students' aspirations and abilities, empowering them to pursue their goals confidently.

Collaboration with Transition Teams and Agencies

Collaboration is key in effective transition planning, and special education teachers collaborate extensively with transition teams and community agencies to ensure comprehensive support for students with disabilities. They work alongside school counselors, social workers , vocational rehabilitation counselors, and community service providers to connect students with appropriate resources and services. Special education teachers facilitate smooth transitions by actively involving students in the decision-making process, empowering them to take ownership of their goals and navigate the post-school landscape successfully.

By fostering a strong partnership between schools, families, and community agencies, special education teachers ensure that students with disabilities have a well-rounded and individualized transition plan. This comprehensive approach not only supports students' academic growth but also equips them with the skills and resources necessary for a successful transition to adulthood and a fulfilling post-school life.

Working with Parents and Families of Students with Special Needs

Building effective communication and partnerships.

Special education teachers recognize the vital role of parents and families in their students' education journey and prioritize building effective communication and partnerships with them. They foster an open and collaborative environment where parents feel valued, heard, and actively involved in their child's education. Regular parent-teacher conferences , progress updates, and feedback sessions are integral to keeping parents informed about their child's academic and social progress. Special education teachers actively seek input from parents to gain a deeper understanding of their child's strengths, challenges, and aspirations, ensuring that the educational approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.

Providing Parent Education and Resources

Supporting parents and families is an essential aspect of a special education teacher's role. They provide parent education and resources to equip families with valuable knowledge and skills to advocate for their child effectively. Special education teachers help parents understand the special education process, including Individualized Education Plan (IEP) development and their rights under the law. They offer guidance on accessing community resources and support services that can enhance their child's learning and well-being. By collaborating with parents as true partners, special education teachers empower families to actively participate in their child's education and create a strong support system both in and outside of the school setting.

By fostering strong and collaborative relationships with parents and families, special education teachers ensure a holistic and supportive approach to their students' education. These partnerships not only enhance students' learning experiences but also create a unified and compassionate support network that promotes the overall well-being and success of students with special needs.

Challenges and Rewards in Special Education Teaching

Addressing burnout and self-care strategies.

Special education teaching can be both rewarding and demanding, with unique challenges that teachers face daily. One significant challenge is the potential for burnout due to the emotional and physical demands of working with students with diverse learning needs. Special education teachers often navigate complex situations, individualized plans, and behavior management, which can lead to stress and fatigue.

To address burnout, special education teachers prioritize self-care strategies to maintain their well-being and effectiveness in the classroom. They make time for personal pursuits, engage in hobbies, and seek emotional support from colleagues and mentors. Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and setting healthy boundaries between work and personal life play a crucial role in maintaining resilience and preventing burnout. Schools and educational institutions that value their special education teachers also provide professional development opportunities, peer support groups, and access to counseling services, further promoting well-being and job satisfaction.

Celebrating Success Stories and Impact on Students

Despite the challenges, special education teachers find immense reward and fulfillment in witnessing their students' progress and growth. Celebrating success stories and recognizing the positive impact on students' lives serve as a powerful source of motivation and inspiration. Special education teachers take pride in the progress of their students, whether it's academic achievement, improved social skills, or increased self-confidence.

The sense of accomplishment in helping students overcome obstacles and achieve their potential reinforces the dedication and passion of special education teachers. Each milestone, no matter how small, becomes a reason to celebrate and reaffirms their commitment to making a difference in the lives of their students. The bond formed with students and their families creates a profound sense of purpose and fuels the passion for special education teaching. Knowing that they play a pivotal role in shaping the future of their students and witnessing the transformative impact they have on young lives makes the challenges worthwhile and the rewards immeasurable.

Special education teachers are instrumental in fostering inclusive education by providing personalized support to students with diverse learning needs. They adapt curriculum, conduct assessments, and collaborate with various stakeholders to create an empowering learning environment. Their dedication helps break down barriers and ensures every student can thrive academically and emotionally.

To ensure academic success and holistic development, it is crucial to prioritize special education and provide ongoing support to these exceptional educators. Celebrating their contributions and investing in their professional growth will further strengthen the foundation of inclusive education. Let us unite in recognizing and empowering special education teachers, as they play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education and transforming the lives of their students.

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What does a special education teacher do?

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What is a Special Education Teacher?

A special education teacher works with students who have a wide range of disabilities and special needs. Their primary role is to provide specialized instruction and support to help students with disabilities overcome learning barriers and achieve academic, social, and emotional success. Special education teachers assess students' individual needs, develop tailored education plans, and implement effective teaching strategies and accommodations to meet each student's unique learning goals.

In addition to academic instruction, special education teachers also foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment for their students. They collaborate closely with other educators, administrators, parents, and support staff to create Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and ensure that students with disabilities receive the necessary accommodations, services, and resources to thrive in school.

What does a Special Education Teacher do?

Duties and Responsibilities Special education teachers have a range of duties and responsibilities that are vital in ensuring that students with disabilities receive the support they need to succeed. Some of these responsibilities include:

• Assessment and Individualized Education Planning: Special education teachers assess students' individual needs, strengths, and challenges to determine eligibility for special education services. They collaborate with other professionals, such as psychologists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists, to conduct evaluations and develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to each student's unique learning goals and needs.
• Instruction and Differentiated Teaching: Special education teachers design and implement specialized instruction and teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities. They adapt curriculum materials, modify instructional approaches, and provide individualized support to help students with disabilities access the general education curriculum and make academic progress. Special education teachers may also provide small-group instruction, one-on-one tutoring, or co-teaching support in inclusive classroom settings.
• Behavior Management and Support: Special education teachers help students develop social skills, self-regulation, and positive behavior management strategies to succeed in school and community settings. They establish clear expectations, reinforce positive behaviors, and provide targeted interventions and supports to address challenging behaviors and promote a positive learning environment. Special education teachers collaborate with behavior specialists, counselors, and support staff to implement behavior intervention plans and support students' social-emotional development.
• Collaboration and Communication: Special education teachers collaborate closely with general education teachers, administrators, parents, and other professionals to support students' academic and developmental needs. They attend team meetings, participate in IEP meetings, and communicate regularly with parents to discuss students' progress, set goals, and coordinate services. Special education teachers advocate for students with disabilities, ensuring that they receive appropriate accommodations, services, and resources to succeed in school and beyond.
• Professional Development and Continued Learning: Special education teachers engage in ongoing professional development and training to stay updated on best practices, research-based interventions, and legal requirements related to special education. They participate in workshops, conferences, and seminars, pursue advanced degrees or certifications, and collaborate with colleagues to share expertise and resources. Special education teachers continuously strive to improve their teaching practices and support the diverse needs of students with disabilities.

Types of Special Education Teachers There are various types of special education teachers, each specializing in a specific area of need or disability. Some of the most common types of special education teachers include:

• Autism Teacher: These teachers work with students who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They may use specialized techniques such as applied behavior analysis (ABA) to help students develop social skills, communication skills, and independence.
• Emotional and Behavioral Disorders Teacher: These teachers work with students who have emotional or behavioral disorders that may impact their ability to learn and interact with others. They may help students develop coping skills, build positive relationships, and manage their behavior in the classroom.
• Learning Disabilities Teacher: These teachers specialize in working with students who have difficulties with reading, writing, or math. They may use specialized techniques to help students overcome these challenges and develop their skills in these areas.
• Occupational Therapist : Occupational therapists work with students who have physical disabilities or challenges with fine motor skills. They may help students develop skills such as handwriting, dressing, or eating independently.
• Physical Therapist : Physical therapists work with students who have physical disabilities or challenges with gross motor skills. They may help students develop skills such as walking, climbing stairs, or participating in physical education activities.
• Speech and Language Pathologist : These professionals work with students who have communication disorders such as stuttering, language delays, or articulation disorders. They may work with students one-on-one or in small groups to help them develop their communication skills.

Are you suited to be a special education teacher?

Special education teachers have distinct personalities . They tend to be social individuals, which means they’re kind, generous, cooperative, patient, caring, helpful, empathetic, tactful, and friendly. They excel at socializing, helping others, and teaching. Some of them are also investigative, meaning they’re intellectual, introspective, and inquisitive.

Does this sound like you? Take our free career test to find out if special education teacher is one of your top career matches.

What is the workplace of a Special Education Teacher like?

Special education teachers may work in a variety of environments, including public and private schools, specialized special education schools, inclusive classrooms, resource rooms, or self-contained classrooms dedicated to students with disabilities. These settings may range from elementary, middle, or high schools to specialized programs or alternative education centers.

Inclusive classrooms, where students with disabilities are integrated into general education classrooms alongside their peers without disabilities, are becoming increasingly common. In these settings, special education teachers collaborate closely with general education teachers to provide differentiated instruction, accommodations, and support to meet the diverse learning needs of all students. They may co-teach with general education teachers, provide push-in or pull-out support, or work in small groups to provide targeted interventions and assistance to students with disabilities.

Additionally, special education teachers may also spend time outside of the classroom attending meetings, collaborating with other professionals, and conducting assessments and evaluations. They work closely with parents, administrators, counselors, therapists, and support staff to develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), monitor student progress, and ensure that students with disabilities receive the necessary services and supports to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.

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Special Education Teachers are also known as: Special Education Resource Teacher Inclusion Teacher

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Special Education Teacher

Job summary:.

The Special Education Teacher will coordinate and provide developmentally appropriate educational services to students whose abilities differ from their peers.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Directs, monitors, and mentors teachers assistants working with students who have disabilities.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Performs a variety of assessments and observations to determine the areas in which the student may need extra or modified educational services. Assessment areas may include academic performance, behavior, social development, or physical health.
• Identifies the students needs and develops related lesson and teaching plans.
• Develops an integrated plan for the education of each child by collaborating with classroom teachers, parents, psychologists, social workers, and other medical and school staff.
• Develops individualized education programs (IEPs) for each student, setting learning goals and adopting modifications as necessary; ensures each students activities and lessons are planned and organized according to his/her abilities.
• Develops and teaches lessons that provide engaging learning opportunities for small groups and individual students while meeting required specifications of IEPs and 504 plans.
• Implements IEPs, provides ongoing or follow-up assessments, and continually tracks progress and makes modifications as necessary.
• Collaborates with classroom and homeroom teachers to ensure each students needs are met and plans are followed.
• Ensures programs comply with Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA); ensures each applicable student is provided with Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) that is properly modified for his/her individual needs.
• Develops, completes, and maintains all paperwork mandated by local, state, and federal guidelines, laws, and regulations.
• Maintains knowledge of special education teaching methods, research, and best practices through professional development and study.
• Establishes and enforces classroom management structure and rules that ensure the academic engagement and the physical and mental safety of all students.
• Celebrates the achievements and successes of students.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to maintain a calm and patient demeanor with all students.
• Thorough understanding of various special education needs and services.
• Thorough understanding of and the ability to implement a variety of effective teaching methods.
• Thorough understanding of policies, laws, and guidelines related to special education including IDEA, IEPs, and 504.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelors degree in Special Education required; Masters degree preferred.
• Appropriate state license or certification required.
• Two years of experience highly preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods standing and walking throughout school and classroom.
• Must be able to lift up to 45 pounds at a time.
• Must be able to assist students who have physical difficulties.
• Must be able to kneel, sit, stand, crawl, push, and pull to assist and teach children throughout the day.
• Prolonged periods sitting and working on computer to complete necessary paperwork.

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