Special Education Teacher (Part-Time)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Plans and develops an engaging, age-appropriate course of study in the classroom, adhering to educational best practices and state and school district curriculum guidelines; 
• Develops individual lesson plans in one or more academic subjects using a variety of teaching techniques that appeal to various learning styles and methods; Adjust lesson plans to meet the needs of students in the classroom; 
• Prepares materials for lessons, assignments, and tests; evaluates, corrects, and grades student performance; 
• Creates an environment that is conducive to learning and enhances students’ educational experience; 
• Analyzes data from assessments and benchmark testing to drive instruction; 
• Communicates timely feedback on students’ progress and concerns with tact and professionalism to parents and, as appropriate, other faculty, staff, and/or principal; 
• Effectively manage student behavior and address disciplinary issues when necessary; 
• Builds and maintains positive relationships with parents; 
• Work collaboratively with other teachers, support staff, and administrators; 
• Participate in team meetings and professional development activities to stay updated on best practices and educational trends; 
• Maintains required paperwork for individual student files, attendance and incident reports, and other necessary records; 
• Incorporate educational technology into lessons to enhance learning experiences; 
• Monitors students’ progress throughout the year and evaluates next grade level preparedness; 
• Differentiate instruction to address the diverse learning needs of students; 
• Provide additional support or challenges for students as needed; 
• Guide the learning process of students in the classroom toward the achievement of curriculum goals set by the district and/or appropriate federal guidelines; 
• Achieve those objectives/activities included in the Professional Growth Plan developed jointly with the principal or school administration as part of the accountability process mandated by the State Legislature; and 
• Performs such other duties as may be required.  

Supervision of Students

• Supervises students in various settings including on-campus and off-campus activities, before and after school during drop-off and pick-up, within the classroom, during class transitions, recess/intermission, lunch periods, assemblies, and any other assigned times or locations to ensure their safety and well-being.

Non-Instructional Components

• Attends non-instructional activities such as faculty and staff meetings, professional training sessions, IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, back-to-school and open house events, graduation ceremonies, PGP and PIP evaluations, observations, IAP and student discipline meetings/hearings, as well as school board and committee meetings and other meetings as needed/requested.

Extracurricular Activities

• Attends meetings and functions of employee sponsored activities, groups, or clubs.
• Attends work concessions/gates as requested by Principal or designee if applicable.
• Performs such other duties as may be required.

SPED specific responsibilities

• Tailors lesson plans to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities within the classroom 
• Implements adaptive materials and technologies to enhance student engagement and understanding 
• Works closely with general education teachers, support staff, and specialists to create a collaborative and inclusive learning environment 
• Attends and actively participates in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and other collaborative sessions 
• Tracks and documents student progress in alignment with IEP goals 
• Communicates regularly with parents or guardians to share updates on student performance and discuss strategies for support at home 
• Implements effective behavior management strategies to create a positive and supportive classroom environment 
• Collaborates with support staff and specialists to address behavioral challenges 
• Identifies and utilizes appropriate adapted materials, resources, and assistive technologies to meet the diverse needs of students 
• Ensures accessibility and accommodation for all learners 
• Stays informed about current trends, research, and best practices in special education 
• Participates in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching skills and knowledge 
• Fosters positive relationships with parents, providing support and guidance regarding their child's education 
• Collaborates with community resources to enhance support services for students with special needs 

Educational Background

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Special Education or a related field 
• Valid Louisiana teaching certification in Special Education required;   
• Teaching experience strongly preferred 
• Experience working with elementary-level students with diverse learning needs 

Other Knowledge, Skills or Abilities Required 

• Thorough understanding of pedagogy and the best practices of education;
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
• Strong classroom management skills;
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Must possess the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, staff, and outside agencies;
• Strong understanding of special education laws, regulations, and best practices.