Special Education Teacher | Aquila Elementary

Saint Louis Park Independent School District 283•Saint Louis, MN

14d•$47,066 - $103,660

About The Position

A Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing individualized instruction and support to students with disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate educational services in alignment with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The role includes collaboration with families, general education teachers, and support staff to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Requirements

Special Education Laws & Policies: Understanding of IDEA, Section 504, ADA, and state regulations governing special education.
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs): Knowledge of IEP development, implementation, and compliance requirements.
Instructional Strategies: Familiarity with differentiated instruction, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and evidence-based teaching practices.
Behavior Management: Understanding of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA), and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP).
Assessment & Data Collection: Knowledge of formal and informal assessments to track student progress and inform instruction.
Assistive Technology: Familiarity with adaptive tools, software, and communication devices that support student learning.
Inclusion & Co-Teaching Models: Understanding of best practices for integrating students with disabilities into general education classrooms.
Instructional Delivery: Ability to modify and differentiate instruction based on student needs.
Collaboration & Teamwork: Strong skills in working with general education teachers, paraprofessionals, related service providers, and families.
Communication: Clear and effective verbal and written communication with students, parents, and colleagues.
Problem-Solving: Ability to develop and implement creative solutions to support student learning and behavior.
Adaptability & Flexibility: Capability to adjust teaching strategies and interventions as student needs evolve.
Classroom & Behavior Management: Skill in implementing behavior support strategies and fostering a positive learning environment.
Time Management & Organization: Ability to manage multiple responsibilities, including lesson planning, IEP meetings, and documentation.
Build Positive Relationships: Establish trust and rapport with students, families, and staff.
Support Diverse Learning Needs: Adapt instruction for students with various disabilities and learning styles.
Maintain Confidentiality & Ethical Standards: Handle sensitive student information with professionalism and discretion.
Advocate for Student Success: Ensure students receive the necessary support, accommodations, and services.
Foster Independence & Self-Advocacy: Encourage students to develop self-regulation, confidence, and autonomy.
Implement Crisis Intervention Strategies: Apply de-escalation techniques and support students in managing behaviors.
Engage in Continuous Learning: Stay current with best practices and professional development in special education.
Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education, Education, or a related field.
Valid State Teaching License with an endorsement in Special Education: Academic and Behavior Strategist (ABS) Emotional Behavior Disorders (EBD)
Completion of a state-approved Special Education Teacher Preparation Program.

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree in Special Education, Educational Leadership, or a related field (may be required for advanced licensure or specialized roles).
Previous Teaching Experience in a special education classroom or inclusion setting.
Experience collaborating with general education teachers, related service providers, and paraprofessionals.
Familiarity with behavior intervention plans (BIPs), functional behavior assessments (FBAs), and assistive technology.
Experience working with diverse student populations, including English learners and students with multiple disabilities.
Strong understanding of federal and state special education laws (IDEA, Section 504, ADA).
Commitment to professional growth through ongoing training and professional development.
Additional coursework in behavior management, inclusive education, or assistive technology.
Certification in Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) or other de-escalation techniques (preferred or required depending on district).

Responsibilities

Develop and implement lesson plans tailored to meet the needs of students with disabilities.
Adapt instructional methods, materials, and assessments to accommodate diverse learning styles.
Provide direct instruction in academic, social-emotional, and functional skills.
Utilize assistive technology and specialized resources to support student learning.
Monitor and assess student progress, adjusting instructional strategies as needed.
Develop and update Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in collaboration with the IEP team.
Ensure compliance with federal and state special education laws (e.g., IDEA, Section 504).
Collect and document data to assess progress toward IEP goals.
Participate in IEP meetings, multidisciplinary team discussions, and student evaluations.
Provide accommodations and modifications in accordance with IEPs.
Work closely with general education teachers to support inclusive practices.
Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress and needs.
Collaborate with paraprofessionals, related service providers, and other support staff.
Serve as an advocate for students with disabilities to ensure access to appropriate educational resources.
Implement positive behavior support plans (PBSP) and interventions.
Utilize de-escalation and crisis intervention strategies as needed.
Promote a safe and supportive learning environment.
Foster students' social and emotional development through targeted interventions.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date student records, including progress reports and services documentation.
Use data-driven decision-making to refine instructional strategies.
Participate in professional development and training to enhance instructional effectiveness.
Supervise and provide direction to paraprofessionals and support staff.
Participate in school-wide initiatives, committees, and professional learning communities.
Adhere to all district policies, ethical guidelines, and confidentiality requirements.
Other duties as assigned.