Job Description:

Location:
  Simmons Elementary School

Position Start Date:
  01/03/2025

FTE: 1.00

REQUIREMENTS
 
Education Level:
Bachelor’s degree or beyond in an approved teacher education program and a current, valid South Dakota Teacher certificate with Special Education endorsement.  Must be highly qualified for the position according to South Dakota Department of Education guidelines and regulations.
 
Experience Desired:
Minimally, student teaching.  Previous experience in classroom teaching is preferred.
 
Other Requirements:
Demonstrated interest and commitment toward the welfare of young people.  Positive human relations skills toward both adults and children.  Patience and a positive attitude is essential.  Initiative and willingness to assist children with personal care needs.  Demonstrated ability to maintain privacy and confidentiality in dealing with individuals and/or their records. Skills in word processing, operating office machines and audio-visual equipment.
 
Physical Requirements:
This position requires eye-hand, mind-eye coordination, physical dexterity, the ability to frequently walk, stand, bend, stoop, talk, and possibly lift up to 50 pounds.

Clearances:
Employment is contingent upon a Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance, paid for by the applicant.
 
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES:                              
Support the philosophy and mission of the Aberdeen School District.
Teach the approved district curriculum to assigned students with behavioral and emotional goals.
Ensure that all activities conform to district guidelines.
Employ instructional strategies that address a variety of learning styles and strengths.
Use a variety of assessment procedures, samples, and instruments to evaluate student learning and provide specific and immediate feedback.
Maximize the available amount of time for instruction.
Establish and maintain a positive learning environment and respond to the individual needs of students.
Maintain an organized and attractive physical classroom environment.
Set high expectations and standards for student achievement and behavior as appropriate to age and level of development.
Recognize and address the disabilities of students on a regular basis, seeking assistance of district specialists as required.
Recognize signs of emotional/physical distress in students and take appropriate action when necessary.
Maintain appropriate classroom management and supervision for all assigned students.
Take all reasonable and necessary precautions to protect students, equipment, materials and facilities.
Meet and instruct assigned classes in the location(s) and time(s) designated.
Coordinate and supervise field trips as appropriate for assigned teaching area.
Assist with the activities of student organizations as assigned.
Obtain advance approval of the Principal for all activities and expenditures.
Attend staff meetings and serve on committees.
Strive to maintain and improve professional competence by participating in district-initiated staff development.
Communicate effectively and clearly with others.
Use appropriate and effective written and spoken language.
Maintain accurate, complete and correct records as required by law, school district policy and school administrative requirements.
Prepare appropriate lesson plans for substitute teachers.
Use appropriate technology for both instructional and management functions.
Respond to communications within the school district, (e-mail, voice mail, interoffice memos, postal mail) in a timely manner.
Adhere to all district policies, handbooks, and regulations.
Teach students who have been identified as in need of special education; may include students who are developmentally delayed, mentally handicapped and behaviorally disordered.
Provide consultation to classroom teachers regarding the inclusion needs of the above-described students.
Participate in identification, assessment and IEP development and delivery for eligible students.
Maintain student records regarding the referral evaluation and placement process in compliance with district, state, and federal requirements.
Participate in parent conferences and communicate with parents on a routine basis, keeping them well-informed about their child’s school progress.
Utilize teaching techniques consistent with the research on characteristics of effective teaching.
Establish student success as a primary teaching goal and provide an opportunity for all students to experience success.
Promote developmental growth and achievement for all students.
Monitor student classroom effort and parent-child activities, thus providing continuous feedback to parents and students of academic progress.
Establish a classroom management system that promotes the most efficient use of learning time.
Provide for the well-being, health and safety of all students.
Participate in school and District study committees and department meetings.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Building Principal or Director of Special Education.

Salary Range:
According to the negotiated agreement