Position Title: Special Education Teacher K-2

Department: Alma Primary School

Reports To: Principal/Special Education Director

Contract: 190 Days

Closing: Until Filled

Salaries: https://www.almasd.net  Under State-Required Info

  

Alma School District is actively seeking an experienced, talented, and dynamic individual to join our highly successful and progressive schools. We are looking for someone to join our team as an Inclusion Special Education Teacher and help us create a diverse and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. The candidate will also devote his or her energies and efforts toward learning experiences designed to fulfill students’ intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth.  

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Holds or is able to secure an Arkansas teaching license within the range of K-12 special education 
• 3 years of classroom experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 5 years of classroom experience in grades K-5
• Experience in a special education/inclusion position  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES, EXPERIENCE AND SKILL SET

Special education teachers require a diverse set of skills to effectively support students with diverse needs. 

• Patience: Special education teachers work with students who may require extra time to grasp concepts or may exhibit challenging behaviors. Patience is essential for maintaining a supportive and positive learning environment.
• Flexibility: Students with special needs have unique learning styles and may require different approaches or accommodations. Being flexible allows teachers to adapt their teaching methods to meet individual student needs.
• Empathy: Understanding the experiences and challenges faced by students with disabilities is crucial for providing effective support. Empathy helps special education teachers connect with their students and tailor their teaching to meet their specific needs.
• Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is vital for collaborating with students, parents, other teachers, and support staff. Special education teachers need to convey information about students' progress, behavior, and individualized education plans (IEPs) accurately and compassionately.
• Knowledge of Special Education Laws and Regulations: Special education teachers must have a solid understanding of laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. This knowledge ensures that they can advocate for their students' rights and provide appropriate accommodations and services.
• Differentiated Instruction: Special education teachers must be skilled in designing and implementing instruction that meets the diverse needs of students with disabilities. This includes adapting curriculum materials, using assistive technology, and providing alternative assessment methods.
• Collaboration Skills: Working collaboratively with other professionals, such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and behavior specialists, is essential for creating comprehensive support plans for students. Collaboration ensures that students receive coordinated services and interventions.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Special education teachers collect data on students' progress and behavior to inform instructional decisions and measure the effectiveness of interventions. Analyzing data helps teachers identify areas of growth and areas where additional support may be needed.
• Crisis Management Skills: Special education teachers may encounter situations where students exhibit challenging behaviors or emotional crises. Having strategies for de-escalating situations and providing appropriate support is essential for maintaining a safe learning environment.
• Cultural Competence: Understanding and respecting the cultural backgrounds and identities of students and their families is important for building trust and fostering positive relationships. Cultural competence helps special education teachers create inclusive and supportive learning environments for all students.
• Organization and Time Management: Special education teachers often work with multiple students, each with their own individualized education plans and support needs. Strong organizational skills are necessary for managing paperwork, scheduling meetings, and coordinating services effectively.
• Advocacy Skills: Special education teachers serve as advocates for their students, ensuring that their needs are met within the school system. This may involve advocating for appropriate accommodations, services, or resources to support students' learning and development.

Alma School District assures Equal Employment Opportunities and equal education opportunities for employees and students as required by Federal and State Orders and Laws.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential tasks. This job description is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements. However, management and administration reserve the right to modify, add, or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary. It is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of the responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with this position