Experienced Part-Time Special Education Teacher (SERT) - MPS Online K-5 Program for Diverse Student Populations

About Us

Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) is a vibrant and inclusive district that serves over 36,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Our mission is to provide a world-class education that prepares students for success in college, careers, and life. We are committed to fostering a culture of equity, excellence, and innovation, where every student has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Part-Time Special Education Teacher (SERT) to join our MPS Online K-5 program. As a SERT, you will play a critical role in supporting students with disabilities in the general education program, providing individualized instruction and accommodations to help them meet their Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals. If you are a dedicated educator with a passion for making a difference in the lives of students with diverse needs, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide support to students with disabilities in the general education program, including individualized instruction and accommodations to help them meet their IEP goals.
• Consult and collaborate with general education teachers to develop and implement effective instructional strategies and accommodations for students with disabilities.
• Implement Special Education due process guidelines, including evaluation of students suspected of or identified as having disabilities, determination of special education eligibility, development of IEPs, and case management.
• Participate in team planning of IEPs for students with disabilities, including the development of appropriate, measurable, behavioral and instructional objectives.
• Report student progress toward IEP goals to parents and educational personnel a minimum of three times per year.
• Monitor progress of students with disabilities using specified program procedures, and make instructional changes when indicated.
• Develop, implement, and monitor behavior management programs for students with disabilities who exhibit behavior problems.
• Develop, implement, and monitor specialized, research-based instructional programs in basic skill areas to meet students' unique needs.
• Develop and implement, in collaboration with the transition IEP team, transition evaluations and IEPs prior to transition age (grade 9 or age 14, whichever is first).
• Develop proficiency in use of Easy IEP, web-based software, to produce due process paperwork, including IEPs and Evaluation Reports.
• Continue professional development in evidenced-based instructional practices through membership in professional organizations, reading of professional journals, and/or attendance at in-service trainings and professional conferences.
• Prepare and submit program information and reports as requested by Assistant Director of Special Education.
• Adhere to building policy and procedures.
• Acquire knowledge of the goals of the Minneapolis Public School District Improvement Agenda and site/school goals.
• Work to support and achieve those goals.
• Establish developmentally appropriate instructional and behavioral expectations for students and for self and communicate those to students and their families.
• Create lessons and learning environments that are safe, respectful, and interesting as well as multicultural/gender and ability fair/developmentally appropriate.
• Select, adapt, and individualize materials appropriate for diverse student populations and skill levels.
• Teach students the required curricula using strategies that foster thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving.
• Collaborate and communicate regularly with families in making educational decisions and use family and community resources to support learning.
• Assess students' developmental, cognitive, and social needs and provide developmentally appropriate instruction to meet those needs.
• Regularly assess student learning by using multiple forms of assessment.
• Facilitate positive interactions between students and teacher, student and peers, and student and other adults.
• Model learning and behavior consistent with the expectations for students.
• Assess own instructional effectiveness through the Professional Development Process (PDP).
• Participate in ongoing and regular staff, team, and individual professional development.
• Collaborate with peers to develop, plan, and implement best practices based on the needs/abilities of the students.
• Participate in site-based management and shared decision-making.
• Always keep the students' needs and rights first and foremost in any educational decision-making.
• Demonstrate competence in the Minneapolis Standards of Effective Instruction.
• Have a working knowledge of and implement the Minnesota State Standards and the District Graduation Requirements.

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university.
• Knowledge of state and federal laws and guidelines for special education services.
• Working knowledge of the subject matter, classroom management techniques, current researched best practices and strategies, as well as students' learning styles and needs, both academic and affective.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Prior successful experience student teaching or teaching in urban, multicultural education setting.
• Demonstrates continued professional development through course work, research, peer collaboration, and/or job-embedded staff development.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's or PhD.
• Valid Minnesota teaching license - Emotional or Behavioral Disorder (EBD), Academic and Behavior Strategy (ABS), or Learning Disability (LD), or proof of pending approved licensure.

Skills and Competencies

To be successful in this role, you will need to possess the following skills and competencies:

• Strong instructional skills and ability to adapt to diverse learning needs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a strong commitment to collaboration and shared decision-making.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Ability to analyze data and make informed instructional decisions.
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with the ability to work effectively with students and families from diverse backgrounds.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

As a member of the MPS team, you will have access to a range of career growth opportunities and learning benefits, including:

• Professional development opportunities, including training and coaching in evidence-based instructional practices.
• Access to a range of resources and support services, including mentorship and coaching programs.
• Opportunities for advancement and career growth, including leadership and administrative roles.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement savings and paid time off.

Work Environment and Company Culture

As a member of the MPS team, you will work in a dynamic and inclusive environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our school culture is built on a foundation of respect, empathy, and collaboration, and we are committed to creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. We offer a range of benefits and perks, including:

• A flexible and hybrid remote work arrangement, with the option to work from home or in our office.
• A comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement savings and paid time off.
• Access to a range of resources and support services, including mentorship and coaching programs.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth, including training and coaching in evidence-based instructional practices.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• A salary range of $60,000 - $80,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.
• A comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement savings and paid time off.
• Access to a range of resources and support services, including mentorship and coaching programs.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth, including training and coaching in evidence-based instructional practices.

How to Apply

If you are a dedicated and passionate educator who is committed to making a difference in the lives of students with diverse needs, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your application, including your resume and cover letter, through our online portal. We look forward to hearing from you!

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