Job Title: Special Education Teacher (Grades K–12)
Location: Commerce City Schools
Reports To: Principal

Position Summary

The Special Education Teacher for grades K–12 is responsible for providing specially designed instruction to students with disabilities in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), state regulations, and district policies. The teacher develops and implements Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborates with general education staff, and monitors student progress to ensure students receive appropriate educational services in the least restrictive environment. The teacher supports students in developing academic, functional, social, behavioral, and transition skills appropriate to their individual needs and grade levels.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction and Student Support

• Provide specially designed instruction aligned with student IEP goals and Georgia Standards of Excellence.

• Adapt curriculum, instructional strategies, and materials to meet individual student needs.

• Deliver instruction in inclusion, co-teaching, small-group, and/or resource settings as determined by student needs.

• Implement accommodations, modifications, and assistive technology as specified in IEPs.

• Support students in developing academic, functional, social, behavioral, and independent living skills appropriate to their developmental levels.

• Support student achievement, grade-level transitions, and preparation for postsecondary opportunities, as applicable.

IEP Development and Compliance

• Develop and maintain compliant Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

• Collect and analyze student data to monitor progress toward IEP goals and objectives.

• Prepare progress reports in alignment with district and state timelines.

• Schedule and facilitate IEP meetings, including annual reviews and amendments.

• Develop and implement transition plans when required by federal and state regulations.

• Ensure all special education documentation meets federal, state, and district compliance requirements.

Collaboration

• Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusive instructional practices.

• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress and needs.

• Work with related service providers, including speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, school psychologists, counselors, and other support personnel.

• Collaborate with school staff, families, and appropriate community agencies to support student success and transitions.

• Participate in Student Support Team (SST), Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and eligibility meetings as needed.

Assessment and Data Collection

• Collect and maintain data on student performance to inform instruction and document progress.

• Assist with evaluation and reevaluation processes by providing instructional data and documentation.

• Implement behavior intervention plans and monitor effectiveness.

• Ensure appropriate accommodations are provided during classroom, district, and state assessments as specified in student IEPs.

• Monitor student progress toward academic, functional, behavioral, and transition goals, as applicable.

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate and confidential student records.

• Participate in professional learning related to special education, instructional strategies, transition planning, and compliance.

• Follow district policies, procedures, and ethical standards.

• Perform other duties as assigned by school administration or the Director of Special Education.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's Degree in Special Education or related field.

• Valid Georgia teaching certificate in Special Education appropriate to the assigned grade level and instructional responsibilities (or ability to obtain appropriate certification).

• Knowledge of IDEA, IEP development, and special education compliance requirements.

• Strong collaboration, communication, and organizational skills.

• Ability to provide differentiated instruction and support students with diverse academic, developmental, and behavioral needs.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout classrooms and school facilities.

• Ability to assist students as needed with mobility or classroom activities.

• Ability to lift instructional materials and classroom supplies.

Work Environment

The Special Education Teacher works within Commerce City Schools, serving students in grades K–12 based on district needs and assigned placement. The teacher collaborates closely with school staff, families, and related service providers to support inclusive educational opportunities, individualized instruction, student achievement, and successful transitions throughout each student's educational experience.