PHS - Special Education Teacher (Maternity 2026-2027 SY)

Portage Township Schools•Portage, IN

About The Position

The Special Education Teacher engages students in learning and manages student behavior in a positive, proactive, and constructive manner to provide a safe and optimal learning environment. The teacher prepares students to become productive, responsible citizens through positive engagement and modeling, and creates a flexible classroom environment that supports learning and personal growth. The teacher establishes rapport with students and works to meet individual needs; motivates students to develop skills, attitudes, and knowledge that support continuing education; and builds positive relationships with students, parents, guardians, and staff. The role includes supervising students in assigned areas, developing lesson plans, and delivering group and individual instruction within established curriculum guidelines. The teacher provides diverse learners with accommodations and modifications, including those required by each student’s IEP, 504 plan, Health Care Plan, or other legally mandated document. The teacher collaborates with other teachers and administrators on instructional and classroom issues, responds to inquiries about the instructional program and student progress, and fosters a culture that empowers students, encourages inclusion, and supports all children. Specific duties may be assigned by the building principal, and responsibilities may change based on District needs. The role supervises students, volunteers, and assistants.

Requirements

Indiana license to teach in the appropriate grade and subject.
Ability to meet the role’s physical demands, including standing for up to four hours, climbing, bending, stooping, and lifting up to 20 pounds as part of routine classroom activities.

Responsibilities

Engage students in learning and manage behavior positively, proactively, and constructively to maintain a safe and optimal learning environment.
Prepare students to become productive, responsible citizens through positive engagement and modeling.
Create a flexible classroom program and environment favorable to learning and personal growth.
Establish rapport with students and seek to meet individual student needs.
Motivate students to develop skills, attitudes, and knowledge that provide a foundation for continuing education.
Establish positive relationships with students, parents, guardians, and staff members.
Supervise students in assigned areas and as needed.
Develop lesson plans.
Deliver group and individual instruction within established curriculum guidelines.
Provide accommodations and modifications for diverse learners, including those required by IEPs, 504 plans, Health Care Plans, or other legally mandated documents.
Collaborate with teachers and administrators to address instructional and classroom issues.
Respond to student, parent, and guardian inquiries regarding the instructional program and student progress.
Create and support a culture that empowers students and encourages inclusiveness and support for all children.
Supervise students, volunteers, and assistants.
Adhere to PTS Core Values, the PTS Strategic Plan, District policies and guidelines, and the civility policy.
Remain free of alcohol and non-prescribed controlled substances in the workplace throughout employment.