Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Plans and develops an engaging, age-appropriate course of study in the classroom, adhering to educational best practices and state and school district curriculum guidelines;
- Develops individual lesson plans in one or more academic subjects using a variety of teaching techniques that appeal to various learning styles and methods; Adjust lesson plans to meet the needs of students in the classroom;
- Prepares materials for lessons, assignments, and tests; evaluates, corrects, and grades student performance;
- Creates an environment that is conducive to learning and enhances students’ educational experience;
- Analyzes data from assessments and benchmark testing to drive instruction;
- Communicates timely feedback on students’ progress and concerns with tact and professionalism to parents and, as appropriate, other faculty, staff, and/or principal;
- Effectively manage student behavior and address disciplinary issues when necessary;
- Builds and maintains positive relationships with parents;
- Work collaboratively with other teachers, support staff, and administrators;
- Participate in team meetings and professional development activities to stay updated on best practices and educational trends;
- Maintains required paperwork for individual student files, attendance and incident reports, and other necessary records;
- Incorporate educational technology into lessons to enhance learning experiences;
- Monitors students’ progress throughout the year and evaluates next grade level preparedness;
- Differentiate instruction to address the diverse learning needs of students;
- Provide additional support or challenges for students as needed;
- Guide the learning process of students in the classroom toward the achievement of curriculum goals set by the district and/or appropriate federal guidelines;
- Achieve those objectives/activities included in the Professional Growth Plan developed jointly with the principal or school administration as part of the accountability process mandated by the State Legislature; and
- Performs such other duties as may be required.
Supervision of Students
- Supervises students in various settings including on-campus and off-campus activities, before and after school during drop-off and pick-up, within the classroom, during class transitions, recess/intermission, lunch periods, assemblies, and any other assigned times or locations to ensure their safety and well-being.
Non-Instructional Components
- Attends non-instructional activities such as faculty and staff meetings, professional training sessions, IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, back-to-school and open house events, graduation ceremonies, PGP and PIP evaluations, observations, IAP and student discipline meetings/hearings, as well as school board and committee meetings and other meetings as needed/requested.
Extracurricular Activities
- Attends meetings and functions of employee sponsored activities, groups, or clubs.
- Attends work concessions/gates as requested by Principal or designee if applicable.
- Performs such other duties as may be required.
SPED specific responsibilities
- Tailors lesson plans to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities within the classroom
- Implements adaptive materials and technologies to enhance student engagement and understanding
- Works closely with general education teachers, support staff, and specialists to create a collaborative and inclusive learning environment
- Attends and actively participates in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and other collaborative sessions
- Tracks and documents student progress in alignment with IEP goals
- Communicates regularly with parents or guardians to share updates on student performance and discuss strategies for support at home
- Implements effective behavior management strategies to create a positive and supportive classroom environment
- Collaborates with support staff and specialists to address behavioral challenges
- Identifies and utilizes appropriate adapted materials, resources, and assistive technologies to meet the diverse needs of students
- Ensures accessibility and accommodation for all learners
- Stays informed about current trends, research, and best practices in special education
- Participates in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching skills and knowledge
- Fosters positive relationships with parents, providing support and guidance regarding their child's education
- Collaborates with community resources to enhance support services for students with special needs
Educational Background
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Special Education or a related field
- Valid Louisiana teaching certification in Special Education required;
- Teaching experience strongly preferred
- Experience working with elementary-level students with diverse learning needs
Other Knowledge, Skills or Abilities Required
- Thorough understanding of pedagogy and the best practices of education;
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
- Strong classroom management skills;
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills;
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
- Must possess the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, staff, and outside agencies;
- Strong understanding of special education laws, regulations, and best practices.



