ECSE Educational Teacher

ECSE Educational Teacher

Primary Purpose:
Provide early childhood special education students with learning activities and experiences designed to help them fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth. Work collaboratively to develop and implement individualized educational programs (IEPs) for students, ensuring accommodations and modifications are in place to meet diverse learner needs.

Qualifications:
Education/Certification:

● Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university (Master’s degree preferred).
● Valid Texas teaching certificate with Early Childhood EC-6 and Special Education EC-12 endorsements.
● ESL certification preferred.

Special Knowledge/Skills:

● Strong understanding of the developmental needs of young children with disabilities.
● Knowledge of special education laws, ARD Committee processes, and IEP development.
● Familiarity with research-based early childhood curriculum and instructional practices.
● Proficient in adapting curriculum and implementing accommodations and modifications.
● Ability to work effectively with students, parents, staff, and administrators.
● Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
● Familiarity with assistive technology and its application in education.

Experience:

● At least one year of teaching experience in early childhood or special education settings preferred.
● Experience with students with disabilities and diverse needs, including autism and developmental delays, preferred.

Major Responsibilities and Duties:
Instructional Strategies:

● Develop and implement lesson plans tailored to meet the needs of students with varying abilities and developmental levels.
● Utilize appropriate instructional strategies, activities, materials, and technology to engage students in meaningful learning experiences.
● Modify and adapt curricula to meet individual needs as outlined in students’ IEPs.
● Employ a variety of assessment tools to monitor student progress and inform instruction.
● Collaborate with general education teachers to provide inclusive learning opportunities when appropriate.

Student Growth and Development:

● Foster a positive and supportive learning environment that encourages student growth.
● Provide personal care, medical care, and feeding as required by students’ IEPs.
● Conduct assessments to evaluate students’ strengths, needs, and progress.
● Guide students in developing self-help and social-emotional skills.
● Actively participate in ARD Committee meetings and contribute to the development and implementation of IEPs.

Classroom Management and Organization:

● Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of young children.
● Manage student behavior effectively, implementing positive reinforcement strategies and adhering to IEP behavior plans.
● Maintain an orderly and safe environment, ensuring proper use and care of materials and equipment.

Professional Growth and Collaboration:

● Maintain open communication with parents, staff, and administration regarding student progress and needs.
● Participate in professional development activities to enhance instructional skills and knowledge.
● Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including lesson plans, attendance, and IEP documentation.
● Serve as a resource for colleagues on early childhood and special education practices.

Professional Growth and Collaboration:

● Maintain open communication with parents, staff, and administration regarding student progress and needs.
● Participate in professional development activities to enhance instructional skills and knowledge.
● Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including lesson plans, attendance, and IEP documentation.
● Serve as a resource for colleagues on early childhood and special education practices.

Policy Implementation:

● Adhere to district policies, state regulations, and federal laws related to special education.
● Maintain confidentiality of student records and information.
● Participate in campus and district committees as needed.
● Other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities:

● Supervise assigned paraprofessionals and ensure they are effectively supporting student learning and needs.

Working Conditions:
Mental Demands:

● Maintain emotional control under stress.
● Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks effectively.

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

● Frequent standing, stooping, bending, and lifting.
● May involve assisting non-ambulatory students and using adaptive equipment.
● Possible exposure to biological hazards.