Special Education Teacher (24-25 School Year!)

Special Education Teacher

2024 - 2025 School Year

At New Branches Charter Academy (NBCA), our mission is to provide a positive academic and social learning environment for all students. . NCBA is a destination school, located on a 12 acre campus that is known for providing environmentally focused learning experiences and self-sustaining practices through dedication to academic excellence. NBCA knows that teachers are the heart of the school and are surrounded by a support system that is committed to the success of every child.

Qualities of a Successful Candidate:

• A comfortability in an outdoor setting and a knack for creativity and innovation, incorporating hands-on activities, experiential learning, and interactive teaching methods to make environmental/outdoor learning engaging and impactful.

• An unwavering belief that all children regardless of their background can learn and exceed at high levels.

• A strong desire to achieve outstanding results in the pursuit of excellence for students.

• Strong interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with children, parents and other staff members. They should be able to work collaboratively, promoting a harmonious learning environment.

As the Special Education Teacher, your core responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:

Curriculum & Instruction:

• Accepts responsibility for the achievement of students.

• Implements the program outlined in the student's IEP in the least restrictive environment.

• Prepares for annual IEPs in a timely manner (completing forms, sending invitations to attendees and scheduling meetings).

• Prepares for three-year re-evaluations in a timely manner (testing, completing forms, sending invitations to attendees and scheduling of meeting times).

• Demonstrates ability to write effective Behavior Plans.

• Guides the learning process toward achievement of curriculum goals and implementation of personal learning plans of students.

• Demonstrates effective planning and organization for instruction.

• Selects appropriate materials for implementation of the curriculum and adapts materials and methods to learning styles and abilities of students.

• Uses creative instructional methods and procedures and adapts effectively to unusual situations.

• Motivates students to achieve at their highest level of ability and potential through classroom activities, assignments, relationships, participation and feedback; holds high expectations and demonstrates sensitivity to different learning styles.

• Works cooperatively with teachers to incorporate the academy's Inclusion model.

• Uses resources effectively to support learning activities in the classroom, the academy and the community.

• Demonstrates exceptional classroom techniques, which include the art of questioning, clarity of assignments, communicating, an atmosphere of mutual respect, independent thought and expression and student and teacher experiences in large and small groups.

Maintaining Student Records:

• Evaluates all student records for current IEP needs as records arrive.

• Maintains accurate special education student records as required by law and local policy.

Classroom Management:

• Works cooperatively with parents and generates parents' confidence.

• Maintains a comfortable learning environment for students whether in a pullout situation or mainstream setting.

• Demonstrates genuine concern for students in a climate characterized by high personal and student expectations.

• Promotes good citizenship through actions as a role model.

• Provides a classroom atmosphere based on the principles of firm, fair and consistent practices, respect for individual children and development of responsible citizenship.

Student Enrollment & Retention:

• Shares responsibility for marketing the academy in the community.

Professional Development & Leadership:

• Participates in the development of policies and regulations that affect instruction and conditions of success.

• Works with classroom teachers to provide resources and training to best meet student IEP needs.

• Uses technology effectively for instruction, record keeping, administrative tasks and communications.

• Shares responsibility for professional, cooperative staff relations and for out-of- class activities important to the operation of the academy.

• Conducts himself or herself according to professional, ethical principles.

• Continually strives to improve classroom methods, teaching techniques and interpersonal relationships.

• Displays personal qualities, which reflect favorably upon the individual, the group and the academy.

• Displays pride in being a teacher and a member of the academy.

Facilities:

• Assumes responsibility for the orderliness of the learning environment and the appropriate and safe use of instructional facilities and equipment.

Other:

• Assumes other responsibilities assigned by the School Leader.

Job Goal: To facilitate the development and implementation of comprehensive and effective special education programs within the Academy. The special education coordinator aims to work closely with teachers, administrators, and support staff to ensure that students with special needs receive the appropriate accommodations and resources necessary for their academic and personal growth. By overseeing the creation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), conducting regular progress assessments, and providing professional development opportunities for educators, they strive to promote a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Their ultimate objective is to advocate for students with disabilities, foster collaborative relationships with parents and guardians, and continually enhance the school's special education initiatives to meet the evolving needs of all learners.

Essential Skills and Competencies: While we will consider a broad range of backgrounds, the ideal candidate would have the following qualifications/experience:

Minimum Requirements:

• Valid Michigan teaching certificate with endorsements in appropriate grade and subject

levels, meeting the requirements of the Michigan Department of Education and Federal

guidelines. Except as otherwise provided by law, the Academy shall use certificated

teacher according to state board rule.

• Minimum of a bachelor's degree.

• Demonstrated competence as a teacher in all areas of focus.

• Able to use technology as an instructional tool in the classroom, as a means of analyzing

academic achievement data and as a tool to aid an effective communications.

• Excellent verbal and written expression using proper grammar and vocabulary.

• Exemplary work habits verified by previous employers.

• Strong interpersonal skills.

Desired Requirements:

• Knowledge and experience teaching the academic curriculum.

Work Location: 3662 Poinsettia Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. Choice Schools offers a full comprehensive benefits plan, including health care, a competitive 401(K) plan, professional development, and much more. View our benefits options here - https://choiceschools.com/careers/careers-choice-experience/

Please contact Sara Hogle via email sarahogle@choiceschools.com with any questions.

Working for Choice Schools Associates

New Branches Charter Academy is part of the Choice Schools Community. As a comprehensive education service provider, Choice Schools offers a student-centered approach to tailored school operations support. Much like a superintendent's office, Choice Schools provides invaluable assistance in various crucial areas, including instruction, professional development, curriculum, human resources, finance, compliance, communications, and enrollment. By being a part of the Choice Schools Environmental Model, New Branches Charter Academy is a vibrant community of learning, comprised of multiple other outstanding environmental schools within the state. The Environmental Model will provide you with the support and collaboration of a large district while serving at a tight-knit community school in your area.

Choice Schools Associates is an equal opportunity employer. Choice Schools Associates does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national or ethnic background. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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