Special Ed Teacher

DescriptionThe Wateford Graded School District has an full time opening for a Special Education Teacher at Fox River Midlde School for the 2026-2027 school year.The Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing individualized and group instruction to students with diverse learning needs, in accordance with their IEPs (Individualized Education Plans). This role involves adapting general education curriculum, developing and implementing instructional strategies, and providing support to help students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. The teacher will collaborate with general education teachers, parents, and support staff to create an inclusive learning environment and ensure that students receive the appropriate services and accommodations. The Special Education Teacher will also monitor student progress, track assessments, and communicate regularly with families to support student growth and achievement.Essential FunctionsDevelop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with special needs, ensuring they align with educational standards and the student's unique goals.Provide direct instruction to students with disabilities in both one-on-one and small group settings.Modify and adapt general education curriculum to meet the needs of students with diverse learning abilities.Collaborate with general education teachers, specialists, and other staff to support inclusion and differentiation in the classroom.Actively participate in the Professional Learning Community (PLC) process as outlined by the district, collaborating with colleagues, contributing to shared goals, monitoring student progress, and supporting continuous improvement within the classroom and grade-level team.Monitor and assess student progress, adjusting instructional strategies as needed to ensure academic success.Maintain accurate records of student performance, IEP documentation, and progress reports.Provide behavioral support and implement strategies to address students' emotional and social needs.Participate in IEP meetings and work with families to discuss student progress and make necessary adjustments to support learning.Assist in the development and implementation of accommodations and modifications to support students' participation in standardized assessments.Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment that promotes student engagement and respect for diversity.Support students in developing social skills, independence, and self-advocacy.Work closely with other professionals such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and counselors to support student needs.Provide crisis intervention when necessary and implement strategies to de-escalate challenging behaviors.Engage in professional development to stay current with best practices in special education.Understand and follow safety protocols and procedures.Performs other duties as assigned by the Principal, Associate Principal(where applicable) or District Administration.Required Skills/Abilities:Strong knowledge of special education laws (IDEA, 504 plans, IEPs) and best practices for supporting students with disabilities, with the ability to design, implement, and adapt individualized plans, including differentiated instruction and the use of assistive technology.Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills for interacting with students, parents, colleagues, and other professionals, while managing multiple IEPs, assessments, and documentation.Classroom management expertise with strategies for behavior management, creating a positive, inclusive learning environment, and utilizing crisis intervention skills when needed.Strong assessment and data analysis abilities to track student progress, adjust instructional strategies, and problem-solve to support students' academic, social, and emotional growth.Patience, empathy, and adaptability in working with students with diverse needs, as well as a commitment to professional development and staying current with educational trends and special education best practices.Ability to respond quickly to emergencies, including assisting students with accidentsEducation and Experience:Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field from an accredited institution. Masters degree preferred.Wisconsin state certification in Special Education. Specific certifications depend on the grade level and the nature of the disabilities served (e.g., Early Childhood Special Education, Cross-Categorical Special Education, or specific certifications for autism or intellectual disabilities).Two years of experience in developing and implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and working as part of a multi-disciplinary team is highly preferred.Has participated in and provides evidence of completing early literacy teacher training, as outlined in Act 20 or through a program endorsed by the Center for Effective Reading Instruction, preferred.Physical Requirements:The physical demands described here represent those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Walking/Sitting/Standing..........................................................................................................FrequentlyClimbing/Crawling/Kneeling....................................................................................................OccasionallyBending/Stooping/Crouching/Twisting or Turning movement............................................FrequentlyReaching........................................................................................Occasionally at/above shoulder heightPulling/Pushing/Lifting/Carrying..........................................................Occasionally 10 pounds or moreCommunication/verbal: Ability to communicate effectively with students, staff, and the community, with hearing within the normal range for human conversation.Visual Acuity: Capable of preparing and reading reports accurately.Manual Dexterity: Proficient in computer input, filing, and operating standard office equipment.Work Environment:Frequently interrupted work environment.Fast-paced with a high level of activity.Potential exposure to infectious diseases.Potential for injuries from biting, scratching, pinching, punching, etc when a student is escalated