Job Summary:

The Elementary Special Education Teacher provides specialized academic and behavioral instruction to students with disabilities in the elementary building. This position involves designing and implementing individualized education programs (IEPs), developing specially designed instruction, and utilizing evidence-based teaching strategies to support students with diverse learning needs. The teacher delivers direct instruction in small group and individual settings while collaborating with general education teachers to ensure students receive appropriate accommodations and modifications in the least restrictive environment. Key responsibilities include conducting progress monitoring, data collection, and assessment; working closely with related service providers; and maintaining regular communication with families to support student achievement and promote inclusion across all educational settings.

Qualifications:

Valid Michigan teaching certificate with Special Education endorsement. Meet Highly Qualified Standards.

Work experience:

Minimum of three years of successful teaching experience in special education settings is preferred, with demonstrated experience across multiple age levels and disability categories. Experience in both resource program and inclusive settings is highly desirable.

Desired Skills:

Advanced knowledge and experience using a variety of research-based academic and behavioral assessments for elementary students
Demonstrated ability to provide exceptional consultation and coaching to classroom teachers and families
Proficiency in designing, implementing, and monitoring individualized instructional plans and interventions for K-6 students with diverse learning needs
Excellence in advocating and supporting the school team with differentiation and accommodations
Superior written and verbal communication skills with the ability to translate complex educational concepts for elementary-aged students, families, and educators
Adept at building collaborative relationships with classroom teachers, support staff, students, and families in a resource room setting
Comprehensive knowledge of evidence-based intervention strategies, positive behavioral supports, and elementary-specific MTSS frameworks
Proficient with educational technology, including specialized assistive technology and data management systems for elementary learners
Exceptional organizational, time management, and documentation skills for maintaining IEP compliance and progress monitoring
Demonstrated ability to work independently in a resource room while maintaining strong collaboration with general education teachers
Knowledge of current special education laws, regulations, and best practices at the elementary level

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Assessment and Evaluation

Conduct formal and informal assessments, observations, and interviews to gather relevant data to inform student plans
Develop specific, measurable recommendations, goals, and objectives to address identified needs
Participate in progress monitoring to evaluate intervention effectiveness

Direct Student Services

Maintain a caseload of students requiring special education support
Provide direct specialized instruction to students on caseload according to their IEPs in individual and small group settings, or push-in support in the GE classroom
Deliver services in various settings, prioritizing support in general education environments when appropriate
Implement evidence-based interventions targeting students' academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs
Monitor student progress and make appropriate adjustments to instructional approaches
Model effective strategies in general education classrooms
Develop and implement accommodations and modifications to ensure access to curriculum

Consultation and Collaboration

Collaborate with general education teachers to design effective classroom accommodations and interventions
Provide ongoing consultation to staff regarding instructional strategies and behavioral supports
Train and coach paraeducators working with special education students
Partner with families to ensure communication between home and school
Develop and maintain positive working relationships with staff, students, parents/guardians, community agency personnel, and administration
Facilitate communication between all stakeholders involved in student support
Attend and actively participate in Student Support Team meetings, IEPs, and other student planning meetings
Assist building staff in conducting Functional Behavior Assessments
In consultation with a team, develop, implement, and monitor Positive Behavior Support Plans

Documentation and Compliance

Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of all services provided
Ensure all special education documentation meets state and federal requirements
Complete required reports within established timelines
Document consultation activities and their effectiveness
Monitor and ensure compliance with special education laws and regulations
Maintain confidentiality of all student information according to FERPA and other policies

General Responsibilities:

Adhere to all policies and procedures of Schoolcraft Community Schools
Demonstrate regular and reliable, in-person attendance
Participate in district and building committees as appropriate
Attend professional development to stay current on best practices in special education
Participate in department and team meetings
Complete assigned responsibilities within agreed-upon or established timelines
Perform other duties as assigned by the building principals or the Educational Supports and Intervention Supervisor

Physical Requirements:

Ability to move throughout school buildings and between multiple school sites
Capacity to work directly with students who may exhibit challenging behaviors
Physical capability to implement crisis prevention/intervention techniques when necessary

Hours and Schedule:

Full-time position following the school calendar
Position will include district-provided training days before the start of the school year
Occasional after-school hours for parent meetings or other district events, per the SEA contract