Instructor - Special Education jobs in Elkhart, IN

The Excel Center Northern Indiana is a high-quality, free, public high school for adult learners 18 and older. We provide coursework toward completing the required credits for students to earn an Indiana Core 40 diploma (not a TASC/GED/HSE program). Our students benefit from a structured learning environment with direct/ face-to-face instruction, an accelerated format, small classes, and individualized attention that meets the unique needs of adult learners. All students are assigned a life coach providing academic and personal counseling to support students pursuing their goals. Our staff have a significant impact on the lives of students seeking a second chance to change their lives. The Excel Center also requires students to earn industry-recognized certificates and/or dual credit college courses. We are seeking a dynamic and innovative team to assist in this endeavor.

Summary

Under the direction of the school director, the special education coordinator plans and provides for appropriate learning experiences for students with disabilities in accordance with student Individual Education Program (IEP), Section 504 Plans for students older than 22, and Individualized Learning Plans (ILP) for English Language Learners (ELLs). The person in this position is responsible for creating a flexible program and learning environment that provides specialized instruction for students with disabilities and language barriers, such that the students benefit from the general education curriculum to the greatest extent possible when supported with supplemental aides, accommodations, and other needed supports.

Education

• Bachelors degree in special education; Licensed in special education-mild and/or intense certification required

Qualifications

• Experience using IIEP; preferred
• Demonstrates an understanding of federal, state, and local mandates governing the determination and delivery of special education services
• Experience completing observations and reports pertaining to learning behaviors of students
• Experience with timelines and goal setting associated with IEPs, 504 Plans, and ILPs
• Possess the essential mindset that all students can succeed
• Drive to improve the outcomes and lives of students in and out of the classroom
• Exhibits resilience to persevere and create opportunities for students out of challenges and lessons learned
• Proven track record of student academic growth and achievement
• Experience working with high school age students in urban, non-traditional, and/or in adult education setting highly preferred.
• Evidence of superior verbal and written communication skills; strong motivational skills
• Evidence of self-motivation and willingness to be a team player; adaptable to shifting priorities
• Has working knowledge of computer programs to perform clerical tasks: Microsoft Outlook, Google Applications, Excel, Word and web browsers
• Collaborate with colleagues and other Science teachers in The Excel Network to share best practices
• Bi-lingual in English and Spanish, highly preferred
• Must be able to successfully pass a background check

Essential Tasks

• Provide coordination for special education services including development of IEPs, and coordination of referrals to outside resources
• Provide coordination for English Language Learners including development of ILPs, administer W-APT screening to all new ELLs, ensure proper accommodations for ELLs, and coordinate the implementation of WIDA ACCESS once per year.
• Accommodate the general education curriculum for students with disabilities based on upon a variety of instructional techniques and technologies
• Maintain accurate and compliant student records and prepare documentation as required by law
• Hold case conference committee meetings to assist in developing measurable goals, benchmarks, and objectives to meet student needs
• Regularly monitor the implementation of the student IEP and provide progress reports to the student and/or family
• Develop compliant and comprehensive transition plans
• Ensure compliance with all state special education laws and regulations
• Clearly communicate students IEP accommodations to general education staff
• Ensure any needed accommodations and modifications on district, statewide, and national assessments are implemented according to the student IEP
• Attend all team and professional development meetings, and special events including scheduled open houses, testing sessions, and orientations
• Demonstrate a relentless drive to improve education and career outcomes for students
• Participate in the development of overall educational strategies for the Excel Center
• Collaborate with colleagues and other Special Education teachers in The Excel Network to share best practices