5th -6th Grade Special Education Teacher

Northview Public Schools•Grand Rapids, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a Full Time position for a Special Education Teacher at Highlands Middle School, specifically for Grades 5-6. The primary responsibility is to provide specialized instruction and support to students with disabilities in an elementary school setting. The teacher will work closely with students, their families, and other education professionals to develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that address students' unique learning needs and goals. The role is crucial in helping students with disabilities overcome challenges, develop their skills, and achieve academic success.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field is required.
Possess a valid Michigan teaching certification in Special Education with K-12 endorsement(s).
Familiarity with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and other relevant federal and state laws governing special education is essential.
Understand the IEP process, including assessment, goal-setting, accommodations, and monitoring student progress.
Possess a strong understanding of differentiated instruction strategies, including the ability to modify curriculum, instructional materials, and teaching methods to meet the diverse learning needs of students with disabilities.
Excellent communication skills are necessary to collaborate effectively with students, parents, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to work as part of a team.
Display patience, flexibility.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working with students with disabilities, preferably in a later elementary or middle school setting, is highly beneficial.
Experience with various disabilities, such as learning disabilities, emotional/behavioral disorders, or autism spectrum disorders, is valuable.

Responsibilities

Develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs): Collaborate with the student's IEP team, which may include parents, administrators, general education teachers, and related service providers, to create comprehensive and individualized educational plans that align with students' strengths, needs, and learning goals.
Plan and Deliver Instruction: Create and implement effective instructional strategies and accommodations to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities. Adapt curriculum materials and teaching techniques to ensure accessibility and meaningful learning experiences.
Assess and Monitor Student Progress: Regularly assess students' academic and functional abilities, track their progress, and modify instructional strategies as needed. Use a variety of assessment tools and techniques to measure student performance and provide feedback to students and parents.
Provide Individual and Small-Group Instruction: Work closely with students in one-on-one or small-group settings to provide targeted instruction and support. Address students' specific learning challenges, reinforce concepts, and develop their skills in academic subjects, functional life skills, and social-emotional development.
Collaborate with General Education Teachers: Coordinate with general education teachers to ensure effective inclusion and support for students with disabilities in mainstream classrooms. Provide guidance and resources to help general education teachers differentiate instruction and accommodate diverse learners.
Establish a Supportive Classroom Environment: Create a safe and inclusive classroom environment that promotes positive behavior, self-advocacy, and student engagement. Implement behavior management strategies and support students in developing appropriate social skills and self-regulation techniques.
Communicate with Parents and Stakeholders: Maintain regular communication with parents and guardians regarding students' progress, achievements, and areas of concern. Collaborate with families, school administrators, and support staff to address students' individual needs and provide necessary resources.
Attend Professional Development and Meetings: Stay up to date with best practices in special education, attend professional development sessions, and participate in team meetings, IEP meetings, and other school-related activities as required.