SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER I

DEFINITION

This is entry-level professional work in the instruction of pupils of normal or impaired learning ability in a state correctional, youth or mental health facility.

An employee in this class is responsible for the instruction of juvenile offenders, patients/residents or adult offenders in state facilities in elementary or secondary school subjects, and related special education work. The employee follows the state-approved course of study, but is required to exercise considerable ingenuity and flexibility in adapting a program to fit the needs, abilities and conditions distinctive to pupils in a variety of state facilities. Work may include responsibility for supervising Education Assistants. Duties are performed under the general supervision of an Education Supervisor or designated administrator, with review primarily for determining adherence to curriculum standards and maintenance of proper discipline.

Any one position may not involve all of the specified duties or knowledges, skills and abilities, nor are the listed examples exhaustive.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

Teaches subject matter appropriate to educational background and certification by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Administers and scores pre/post tests.

Plans and outlines class work within prescribed limits; assembles and prepares learning materials for special study.

Develops, implements and evaluates individual education plans.

Supervises the work of Education Assistants; assigns and reviews work to ascertain that tasks have been performed as directed.

Participates in teacher conferences and meetings.

Keeps scholastic and attendance records.

Gives individual instruction and encouragement as needed.

Confers with parents and/or students regarding students' needs, progress, and/or abilities.

Orders necessary supplies and materials.

Participates in educational research projects.

Functions as part of a teaching team.

Performs other related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Some knowledge of modern practices, techniques and methods of teaching, particularly as applied to special education.

Some knowledge of the principles of educational testing and of the principles and methods of remedial education.

Some knowledge of effective means of supervision and instruction as applied to the work of Education Assistants.

Some knowledge of the needs and requirements of working with students with disabilities.

Ability to apply modern methods and principles of education to pupils functioning at the elementary or secondary school level.

Ability to maintain an interest in the positive improvement and development of children, adolescents or adults of impaired or normal learning ability.

Ability to maintain proper discipline.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, students, etc.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS

(The following entrance requirements are used to admit or reject applicants for merit system examinations, or may be used to evaluate applicants for employment in positions not requiring selection from merit system registers. When applicable, equivalent substitution will be allowed for deficiencies in experience or education.)

Possession of a Bachelor's degree with specialization in the field of special education. (Possession of a valid teaching certificate in special education issued from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will substitute for the specialized college coursework in special education.)

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

Possession of, or proof of ability to secure, an appropriate provisional, life or professional teaching certificate in special education from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education at time of appointment.

(Rev. 11/1/01)