The Lawson Academy Special Education instructor is responsible for teaching students in grades 6-8. As the teacher of record for this position, he/she will advance the mission of the academy; use his/her experience, working in a school setting that cultivates respect for the culture(s) of all members of the learning community; and demonstrate a desire to help students realize their fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
In accordance with the 5 key components of The Lawson Academy’s strategic action plan, the following list illustrates the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
Student Achievement
- Adhere to the scope and sequence outlined in the TEKS Resource System curriculum for students grades 6-8
- Incorporate direct instruction, discussion, projects and cooperative work to engage students, keep classes focused and infuse a lasting desire to learn
- Work cooperatively with content teachers using modified curricula as needed for special education students according to guidelines established in Individual Education Plans (IEP)
- Provide direct and indirect instructional support to students in a positive environment.
- Employ special educational strategies and techniques during instruction to improve the development of sensory- and perceptual-motor skills, language, cognition, and memory.
- Instruct students in academic subjects using a variety of techniques such as phonetics, multi-sensory learning, and repetition to reinforce learning and to meet students' varying needs and interests.
- Teach socially acceptable behavior, as determined by the students’ individualized education programs (IEPs) by employing techniques in an overall positive behavioral support system. • Modify the general education curriculum for students with disabilities based upon a variety of instructional techniques and technologies.
- Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.
- Use technology to strengthen the teaching/learning process
- Work with other members of staff to determine instructional goals, objectives, and methods according to district requirements
- Participate in weekly meetings regarding data disaggregation, TEKS objectives, and alignment with student homework, formative, and summative assessments with STAAR standards
- Follow the school’s policies and procedures for student conduct and discipline and refuse to tolerate classroom disruptions
- Create classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.
- Manage student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook,
- Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
- Assist in selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.
Student Engagement
- Establish competitive Math team; sponsor outside activities approved by the campus principal
- Host after-school club sessions
- Serve as a positive role model for students
- Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining an environment conducive to learning for all students.
Stakeholder Focus
- Establish and maintain open line of communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals, and teachers.
- Meet with parents to discuss their children's progress and to determine priorities for their children and their individualized educational needs.
- Confer with parents, administrators, testing specialists, social workers, and other professionals to develop individualized education programs (IEPs) designed to promote students' educational, physical, and social/emotional development. Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents, and community members.
- Present information to the public with accuracy and clarity
- Develop partnerships and actively seek opportunities for The Lawson Academy scholars to compete and/or present before diverse audiences
Professional Growth and Development
- Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills
- Keep informed of and comply with state, district, and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers
- Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required
- Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required
Qualification, Skill and Knowledge Requirements
- Minimum of Bachelor’s degree; Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Science, Engineering, or some related field is preferred
- Teaching experience in an urban environment is highly desired
- Texas Teaching Certificate appropriate for content area and grade level(s)
- Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to communicate mathematic concepts and instructions clearly
Job Type: Full-time
Education:
License:
- Teaching Certificate (Required)