Teacher - Special Education Learning Specialist (Lange Middle School), 2026-27

Columbia•Columbia, MO

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Design and implement instruction for students with identified educational disabilities. This position requires excellent organization and communication skills as the specialist will need to manage a number of time sensitive tasks as well as collaborate with a variety of professionals including paraprofessionals, service providers, and general educators.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
Missouri teacher certificate in special education
Ability to read, analyze and interpret professional journals, Board policy, administrative procedures and forms and governmental regulations and guidance
Ability to read, analyze, and implement curriculum and assessment data to plan instruction
Ability to complete forms, write reports and engage in written correspondence with parents
Ability to present information effectively and respond to questions
Ability to write clear and complete lesson plans
Ability to work with mathematical concepts, such as probability and statistical inference, and analyze data for instruction
Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios and proportions to practical situations
Ability to solve a variety of problems in many different situations
Ability to interpret instructions presented in written, oral, diagram or schedule form
Ability to apply knowledge of current educational theory and instructional techniques while presenting subject matter to students
Ability to demonstrate executive functions such as planning, organizing, remembering, and regulating information and behavior as they pertain to student performance and achievement
Ability to identify needs and abilities of individual students and to adapt instructional methods accordingly
Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with students, peers and parents
Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously
Ability to integrate technology into daily instruction
Ability to present information to students using a variety of media
Ability to access and present information from online sources in a manner that enhances instruction
Ability to lead and monitor students as they perform online research
Ability to instruct in buildings/classes where students are actively using 1-to-1 technology such as laptop computers, iPads, and other devices
Ability to lead students in creating and presenting multi-media projects when such assignments enhance student learning
Ability to use district software for recording grades and finding student information
Ability to readily utilize smart boards, projectors and other instructional technology provided by the district
Ability to adhere to all District policies and procedures regarding technology use
Ability to speak and hear in an environment where numerous conversations and activities may be taking place simultaneously
Ability to move around the classroom to interact with and manage students/groups of students
Ability to read handwritten or printed material
Consistent and regular attendance is an essential function of this position.

Nice To Haves

Professional and friendly demeanor
Demonstrated ability to work well with a variety of individuals in a fast-paced environment

Responsibilities

Meets and instructs assigned classes in the locations and at the times designated both individually and collaboratively.
Plans and implements a program of study that, as much as possible, meets the individual needs, interests and abilities of all students using data-driven decision-making.
Creates a classroom environment that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interest of all students.
Prepares for assigned classes and shows written evidence of preparation upon request of immediate supervisor.
Encourages students to set and maintain standards of classroom behavior.
Guides the learning process toward the achievement of curriculum goals and, in harmony with the goals, establishes and communicates clear objectives to students for all lessons and units.
Employs a variety of instructional techniques and instructional media consistent with the physical limitations of the location provided and the needs and capabilities of individuals or student groups involved.
Collaborates with administrators, colleagues and parents in a positive and productive manner.
Strives to implement by instruction and action, the District's philosophy of education and instructional goals and objectives.
Assesses the accomplishments of students on a regular basis and provides progress reports as required.
Evaluates the learning problems of students on a regular basis, seeking assistance of District specialists as needed and/or required.
Takes necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials and facilities.
Maintains accurate and complete records as required by law, District policy, and Administrative regulation.
Assists the administration in implementing all policies and/or rules governing student life and conduct and develops reasonable rules of classroom behavior and procedure while maintaining order in the classroom in a fair and appropriate manner.
Makes provisions for being available to students and parents for education related purposes outside the instructional day when required or requested to do so under reasonable terms.
Plans and supervises purposeful assignments for teacher aide(s) and/or volunteer(s) where applicable.
Strives to maintain and improve professional competence.
Attends staff meetings and serves on staff committees as needed.
Performs other duties as necessary to support the mission and vision of Columbia Public School District.
All employees of the District are expected to adhere to the policies and regulations of the Board of Education, maintain appropriate certification and competencies necessary for the position, and demonstrate the values of the district at all times.