Special Education Teacher (Mesa)

Special Education Teacher-Self Contained in Junior High School Setting

*Opportunity for $1,000 Placement Bonus!*

Special Education Teacher Key Responsibilities:

• Lesson Plan Development: Create effective lesson plans that include accommodations and consultation with general education teacher as needed. Plans should accommodate various student levels, include procedures for assessing knowledge, outline the content standards addressed, and specify the curriculum used. Adapt the general education curriculum according to needs outlined in the IEP.
• Supervision of Paraprofessionals: Oversee and direct paraprofessionals assigned to the classroom. While Program Supervisors and Site Administrators will assist in supervision, it is the teacher's primary responsibility in the classroom.
• Implementation of PBIS Program: Manage the classroom's Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) program, including tracking behavior points, maintaining the student store, and communicating with parents/guardians.
• Classroom Management: Maintain a classroom environment that prioritizes student engagement and safety, implementing the behavior plan, modifying state-adopted curriculum, and employing strategies to effectively teach students with various disabilities.
• IEP Meetings and Documentation: Attend IEP meetings for students assigned to the classroom. Write updates for each student's annual IEP in coordination with the state standards, school district expectations, and enter all IEP updates (Present Levels, BIP, ITP, and Goals) into the dedicated IEP documentation system (e.g., IEPpro) prior to the meetings. Maintain documentation on IEP goals, student academic and social growth, prepare progress reports. Ensure documentation is accessible and provided upon request in a timely manner. Ensure confidentiality of records according to district and FERPA regulations.
• Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other staff and outside agencies to effectively educate each student.
• Assistive Technology: Support implementation and use of assistive technology including, but not limited to, augmentative communication devices.
• Instructional Planning: Plan instruction and design learning experiences based on data. Conduct summative assessments with each student in accordance with IEP goal reporting timelines. Administer, transfer, and interpret educational assessment data for supporting educational decision making and goal development.
• Professional Development: Participate in ongoing professional development activities as directed by the district including teacher and all staff trainings. Teachers are encouraged to engage in additional professional development outside of Foundations, a member of Point Quest.

Special Education Teacher Qualifications:

• Required Education & Credentials:
  • Arizona Department of Education Standard Professional Special Education Teaching Certificate (e.g., K-12 Mild/Mod, Cross Cat., etc.) or Special Education Endorsement.
  • Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in Special Education strongly recommended.
• Required Clearances:
  • IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Preferred Skills and Experience:
  • 2-5 years working with students with learning and/or social-emotional needs. Experience in implementing curriculum and behavior interventions.
  • Proficient in written and verbal English, including professional communication.
  • Strong interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Computer-literate with knowledge of standard software applications and internet.
• Certifications & Clearances: DOJ/FBI Live Scan Background.

Special Education Teacher Physical Demands:

• Environment : Occasional exposure to dust, pollen, and fumes.
• Activity : Frequent engagement in tasks such as reaching, handling, standing, walking, and lifting items, with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Sensory : Ability to perform essential job functions with or without assistive devices or accommodations, including working in moderate to high noise levels.

This job description reflects essential functions and may be adjusted as needed.

PQI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants regardless of race, gender, color, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law.