Special Education Skills Teacher – Lincoln Elementary – Grand Island Public Schools

Position Purpose: 

Under the general supervision of the School Principal and Special Education Supervisor, to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students’ specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Desired Characteristics:

• Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.

•  Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles. 

• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans. 

• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students. 

• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed. 

• Ability to organize and coordinate work. 

• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents. 

• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth. 

• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Job Responsibilities: 

• Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.

• Participates in developing Individual Educational Plans (“IEP”) for students. 

• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students’ IEP’s and behavior management plans. 

• Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures according to the building wide positive support plan for maintaining order among the students for whom they are responsible.

• Observe and evaluate students’ performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.

• Adjust teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students’ varying needs and interests.

• Instruct through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations in one or more subjects, such as English, mathematics, or social studies.

• Prepare, administer, and grade tests and assignments in order to evaluate students’ progress.

• Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate. 

• Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by laws, district policies, and administrative regulations. 

• Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.

• Assign lessons and correct homework.

• Enforce all administration policies and rules governing students. 

• Confer with parents or guardians, teachers, counselors, and administrators in order to resolve students’ behavioral and academic problems.

• Encourage students to explore learning opportunities and to persevere with challenging tasks. 

• Prepare lessons, following curriculum guidelines or requirements of the State and the school district. Show written evidence of preparation upon request of immediate supervisors.

• Meet with parents and guardians to discuss their children’s progress and to determine priorities for their children and their resource needs.

• Guide and counsel students with adjustment or academic concerns, or special academic interests. 

• Meet with other professionals to discuss individual students’ needs and progress. 

• Prepare and implement remedial programs for students requiring extra help.

• Perform administrative duties such as assisting in school hallways, recess and cafeteria monitoring, and bus loading and unloading. 

• Administer standardized ability and achievement tests and interpret results to determine student strengths and areas of need. 

• Plan and supervise class projects, field trips, visits by guest speakers or other experiential activities, and guide students in learning from those activities. 

• Select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.

Additional Job Responsibilities:

• Performs other duties as required by the supervisor.

• Serve as a role model to all students.

• Serve as a positive member of the community in a way that does not negatively affect the District’s reputation or image in the community.

• Refrain from engaging in conduct that interferes with the operations of the District, including the education of students. 

• Develop and maintain a positive and professional working relationship with other staff and administration.

• Adhere to all District policies, rules, regulations, and supervisory directives.

• Maintain confidentiality of information concerning staff, students, and parents in accordance with law and District rules.

• Adhere to the code of ethics of the District and the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE Rule 27).

Position Requirements: 

Bachelor’s degree required.  Must at all times during employment possess a Nebraska Teaching Certificate with such endorsements as required by NDE Rule 10 and all other  certification and training as required or assigned.