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Special Education Teacher - SMES (2026-2027 School Year)

Young World Physical Education, Harrisonburg, VA, United States


Special Education Teacher - SMES (2026-2027 School Year)
Smithland Elementary, Harrisonburg, Virginia.

Job ID: 5668265. Application Deadline: Posted until filled. Starting Date: Aug 10, 2026.

Job Description
Position:

Special Education Teacher

Reports to:

Principal

Contract:

200 Days

Salary Scale:

Teacher Salary Scale

FLSA Status:

Exempt

Revised:

9/2010, 3/2021, 5/2021, 4/2023

Position Summary:

Develops and implements an instructional program that will effectively provide identified special education students with a program that will enable them to achieve their fullest potential.

Qualifications

Possesses or qualifies for a Virginia Collegiate Professional license with specific endorsement - holds or eligible for a Virginia Postgraduate Professional license with a Special Education – General Curriculum K-12 endorsement.

Possesses outstanding knowledge and skill in the assigned instructional area and demonstrated enthusiasm for teaching and learning.

Demonstrated knowledge of instructional strategies and skills related to scientifically-based research and its implementation.

Experience working with diverse learning needs and with children that may benefit from alternative learning models is preferred.

Familiarity with racial equity and inclusion frameworks.

Capability to nurture and build strong relationships with students.

Ability to build relationships with families to ensure student success.

Belief that children can make a significant contribution to the school, community, and the world.

Ability to improvise and work through uncertainties while assuming positive intent.

Proficiency in business English: spelling, grammar, and spoken language.

Effectively demonstrates the ability to perform essential functions.

Experience working directly with individuals and families from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Familiarity with equity and inclusion frameworks; models non-discriminatory practices in all activities; respects worth, dignity, and individuality of others.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to present to diverse audiences to foster professional relationships and express ideas.

Excellent interpersonal skills.

Proficiency in using a variety of office/instructional equipment and technology, including Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and email.

Demonstrated leadership qualities and personal characteristics necessary for working effectively with students, teachers, administrators, and the community.

Essential Functions

Establishes and implements daily written lesson plans.

Evaluates student learning and revises instruction accordingly.

Structures teaching to encourage independent thinking by students.

Effectively prepares/uses instructional materials and technology resources.

Maintains appropriate expectations for all students.

Differentiates instruction.

Maintains appropriate student classroom behavior.

Demonstrates knowledge of the subject/grade.

Demonstrates resourcefulness and flexibility.

Displays enthusiasm for teaching.

Utilizes strategies to meet class objectives, student needs, and abilities.

Effectively motivates students.

Manages instructional time wisely.

Provides an appropriate learning environment.

Models acceptable written and oral expressions.

Effectively communicates with students, parents, and the community.

Provides appropriate feedback to students.

Uses student learning measures to improve instruction.

Models professional, moral, and ethical standards and personal integrity.

Participates in meaningful and continuous professional development.

Works collegially with peers, staff, parents, and community resources to support diverse student success.

Provides services to the professional, the school division, and/or the community.

Demonstrates good attendance and punctuality.

Submits required reports on time and meets deadlines.

Maintains accurate records.

Follows proper communication channels.

Maintains confidentiality.

Abides by School Board policies, regulations, and procedures.

Serves as a member of an interdisciplinary team to provide appropriate educational programs for special education students.

Assists in screening, evaluating, and recommending placements for the division's special education program.

Assists in developing short- and long-range goals for the student's IEP.

Provides a basic core program for identified special education students.

Cooperates with classroom teachers to support special education students in regular classes.

Tutors students requiring additional help beyond the regular classroom.

Maintains ongoing records of student performance to evaluate progress.

Conducts annual reviews and updates short-term objectives.

Holds periodic parent conferences and/or home visits.

Stays abreast of recent developments in education for assigned students and demonstrates continuing professional growth.

Follows safety procedures and maintains equipment.

Protects students, staff, and facilities from hazards.

Participates in required meetings.

Performs duties in accordance with School Board policies and HCPS Strategic Plan.

Effectively performs other duties as assigned.

Physical Demands / Work Environment
Light work, lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally, up to 15 pounds frequently. Regular travel throughout the school and interaction with students, staff, and community members. Vocal communication, hearing, visual acuity required. Regular contact with staff. Not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.

Evaluation
Performance will be evaluated in accordance with school board policy and administrative regulations on the evaluation of licensed personnel.

Salary
Full-Time position. Salary: $54,789 to $76,716 per year.

Additional Information
The above is intended to describe the essential functions and requirements of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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