ESE Teacher- Valrico Lake Advantage Academy

Job Description

Job Description

About the Role: Shape Young Minds!

As a key member of our faculty, you'll report directly to the Administration and play a crucial role in creating an exceptional educational experience. You'll be responsible for cultivating an effective classroom that promotes high student achievement and fosters a climate of openness, fairness, mutual respect, support, and inquiry. You'll design and deliver grade-level appropriate learning experiences that captivate students through active learning, hands-on application, and rich discussions. Utilizing both formal and informal assessment strategies, you'll maximize student achievement, modify instructional approaches as needed, and collect data for continuous improvement.

You'll collaborate closely with a supportive team to develop shared lesson plans, establish measurable goals for student achievement, and contribute to a positive school culture. You'll also actively participate in professional learning communities and attend development opportunities to continually enhance your skills. Instilling a strong independent and collaborative work ethic in your students will be key, preparing them for future success. You'll maintain accurate digital gradebooks and communicate regularly with parents, fostering strong home-school connections regarding student progress.

Ensuring a safe and organized environment is also a critical part of this role. You'll take all necessary precautions to protect students, equipment, and facilities, and assist administration in implementing school policies. This includes maintaining order in the classroom and overseeing paraprofessionals and volunteers when applicable. You'll continuously strive to improve your professional competence by attending meetings and serving on staff committees as required. Maintaining accurate records and adhering to all required educational plans and school policies will also be essential.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor of Arts/Science in Exceptional Student Education or a BS in Education

2. Florida certification in ESE (required)

3. Florida certification in K–6 Elementary Education (required)

4. Minimum of 3 years of IEP experience (preferred)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Instructional Support

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) tailored to students’ unique needs.
• Deliver differentiated instruction aligned with state standards and IEP goals in general education and/or ESE settings.
• Use evidence-based strategies to support academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth.

2. Assessment and Progress Monitoring

• Conduct formal and informal assessments to evaluate student progress.
• Maintain accurate records of student performance and IEP goal attainment.
• Participate in eligibility and re-evaluation meetings.

3. Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborate with general education teachers, therapists, and support staff to ensure inclusive practices.
• Support school staff with evidence-based strategies for implementation in general education classrooms.
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress and concerns.
• Serve as a liaison between school personnel and families to support student success.

4. Classroom Management

• Create a structured and supportive learning environment.
• Assist the school team with conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) and developing Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) for students on your caseload, if applicable.
• Implement BIPs and positive behavior supports.
• Promote student independence and self-advocacy.

5. Compliance and Documentation

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and district regulations related to special education.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and information.
• Prepare and submit required documentation accurately and on time as requested by the District and ESE Director.
• Follow procedures developed and shared by the ESE Director.

6. Professional Development

• Participate in ongoing professional development related to special education practices.
• Stay current with changes in laws, regulations, and instructional strategies.
• Contribute to school-wide initiatives and committees as needed.

7. Professional Development Leadership

• Host professional development (PD) sessions for school staff on ESE-related topics, including instructional strategies, compliance updates, and inclusive practices.
• Provide training and resources to support staff in implementing accommodations and modifications for students with disabilities.
• Serve as a resource for ongoing staff development in areas related to special education.

Evaluation:

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the school’s policy on evaluation of professional personnel.