A Special Education Teacher teaches students who have disabilities, and adapts teaching methods to meet the needs of students. Assesses students and helps to develop individualized education plans that specify the services and accommodations needed for each student. Works in a classroom that includes only students with IEPs, or works with students and teachers in regular classes. For students with severe disabilities, may focus on developing skills for independent living. Works as part of a team that includes therapists, school counselors or social workers.
The Lead Teacher is responsible for the holistic education of each child, ensuring that their needs and interests are met. The Lead Teacher stimulates the students' language, emotional, physical, and cognitive development by providing meaningful and personalized learning experiences. This role requires consistent professional practices aligned with the school's policies, and collaboration with students, families, colleagues, and the administration. The Lead Teacher must comply with the regulations and policies of the state of North Carolina.
CORE COMPETENCIES
Collaborative Teamwork:
Effectively collaborates with colleagues, fostering a positive and participatory work environment.
Positive Communication:
Encourages respectful and constructive dialogue with students, families, and coworkers to promote understanding and mutual support.
Customer Focus:
Responds to the needs of children and families, always seeking to provide the best educational experience.
Planning:
Strategically organizes educational activities and resources to achieve learning objectives.
Climate Agent:
Creates and maintains an inclusive, respectful classroom environment where all children and adults feel valued.
Interpersonal Sensitivity:
Recognizes and responds empathetically to the emotional needs of children and adults in the school setting.
Political Sensitivity:
Maintains a diplomatic and professional attitude in situations requiring discretion and tact.
Respect:
Models and promotes respect for all individuals in and outside the classroom, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS HS
Degree + NC Early Childhood Credentials (with at least 18 EC Ed credits) or a Bachelor's degree in Education or Psychology. AA/AAS in Early Childhood Development or Child Development. Bilingual (Spanish and English). Minimum of 2 years of verifiable experience in early childhood education. CPR and First Aid Certification. DHHS Criminal Background Check. SID certification
REQUIRED SKILLS
Proficiency & Language Growth:
Communicates clearly and effectively in English and demonstrates a willingness to learn and use Spanish in daily interactions. Ability to work under pressure in a dynamic environment. Self-motivation, initiative, and the ability to work with minimal supervision. Creative and effective problem-solving. Ability to foster teamwork and maintain positive relationships with colleagues and families.
Physical Agility:
Ability to move easily within the classroom, including kneeling, crouching, crawling, running, and jumping to engage with children at their level.
Active Physical Interaction:
Ability to physically get down to a child's level by sitting on the floor or kneeling, promoting closeness and trust.
Movement Adaptability:
Ability to respond quickly and accurately when needed to ensure children's safety, such as assisting them during play or in risky situations.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Educational Planning and Documentation:
Plans and documents all learning activities following
SPANISH FOR FUN!
(SFF!) guidelines, ensuring alignment with established school policies and procedures.
Classroom Attendance and Daily Management:
Ensures student attendance records are up to date and collaborates with team members in managing daily classroom activities in compliance with DCDEE and SFF! regulations. Participation in
School Meetings and Events:
Actively attends and contributes to planning meetings, school events, and parent conferences, ensuring compliance with SFF! policies and DCDEE guidelines at all times.
Promoting Classroom Safety and Sanitation:
Ensures compliance with all health and safety regulations set by SFF! and DCDEE, maintaining a safe and age-appropriate classroom environment and materials. These responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the ones listed above. Duties may be adjusted or expanded based on school needs and program requirements.
