Position Purpose

To maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living. Various aspects (not an all inclusive list) of the job responsibilities: documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students' specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment. This position would be supervised under the West Liberty Elementary School Principal.

Essential Functions

• Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic assessments of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues that need to be addressed/taught, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.
• Developing Individual Educational Plans ("IEP") for students.
• Implements and assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
• Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with social work services that may be needed.
• Serves as a ready resource to students and parents to provide various resources or learning opportunities that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as liaison between home and school.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.

Additional Duties

• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Equipment

• Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities

• 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.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards

• Works in an Elementary school building environment.
• Physical requirements of lifting, bending, being on your feet for extended period of time.

Qualifications Profile

Certification/License: Iowa Certification as a K-8 Instructional Strategist I: Mild/Moderate and/or K-12 Instructional Strategist II: BD/LD Special Education Teacher or willing to obtain.

Education: Bachelors or higher degree from an accredited college or university in the education discipline applicable to teaching assignment )K-6 Elementary with Special Education endorsement or higher).