Special Education Lead
Montessori Del Mundo
Organization purpose
Montessori del Mundo (MdM) is a public dual-language Montessori charter school in Aurora CO. MdM follows the Montessori philosophy and curriculum. It uses a research-based dual language model with the goal of bilingualism and biliteracy for all students. Academic instruction in Spanish and English prepares students for the future bilingual world.
Accountabilities and Expectations
Providing individualized instruction to children with mild/moderate disabilities and some social-emotional disorders
Developing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for qualifying students, set personalized and challenging goals
Reviewing the IEP with the student's parents, school administrators, and Montessori Guides
Hosting IEP review meetings in Spanish or English, depending on the parents’ preference
Informing parents of their child’s progress
Supporting and collaboratively planning with Montessori Guides to adapt curriculum and teaching techniques to meet the needs of students with disabilities
Observing and analyzing student work
Ensuring students receive appropriate accommodations
Collaborating with the Coordinator on the Torre (MTSS) process to identify appropriate supports for all students
Coordinating and conducting initial evaluations and identifying students with special needs
Assessing students with formal and informal assessment tools for progress monitoring, initial and triennial IEPs
Maintaining the administration-approved record-keeping system to track student progress
Providing effective literacy instruction targeted at bilingual literacy development
Providing effective math instruction targeted at bilingual students
Providing effective study skills and social/emotional instruction during the Access Skills class
Investing in families by building and maintaining positive relationships with parents
Supervising and ensuring student safety
Submitting student progress reports, IEPs, and other required paperwork on time
Reviewing other Special Education Leads’ paperwork (such as IEPs) for compliance and quality, and providing appropriate feedback
Completing the submissions process with the Charter School Institute (district) successfully and on time
Supporting operations with regularly scheduled morning, midday, and/or dismissal duties
Providing a spirit of hospitality at school gatherings, public events, and family engagement activities
Qualifications/Individual Education and Experience
Required:
Bachelor’s Degree and passing score on required PRAXIS exams
Colorado Teaching License with Special Education Generalist Endorsement
Native or native-like fluency in Spanish AND English, ability to provide instruction, communicate with parents, and participate in staff meetings in both languages
Proof of passing the 45-hour evidence-based training in teaching reading as required by the READ Act or a willingness to complete required training during the first year of employment
Preferred:
Montessori Upper and Lower Elementary Teaching Certificates
3+ years working in a Montessori Upper Elementary classroom
Experience and passion for working with Second Language Learners
3+ years working in a 90/10 Dual Language model or with at-risk students
Skills and Abilities/Individual Capacities
Commitment to Dual Language education and Montessori philosophy
Solution-oriented; takes the initiative to resolve conflicts
Demonstrated ability to facilitate and foster collaboration with staff and families
Demonstrated ability to analyze and make decisions based on summative and formative data
Ability to lead from a foundation of Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Ability to effectively manage time and competing priorities
Desire to learn and grow as a professional
Collaborative and open to feedback
Working conditions
This position will require the employee to move about the classroom and building regularly including climbing stairs, getting up and down from the floor, walking on uneven surfaces (playground) and may involve sitting or standing for extended periods of time. There are occasions when you may be required to be outside for a short period of time in inclement weather. This position requires some flexibility to attend occasional events on evenings and/or weekends throughout the year in support of the community.
Physical requirements
This position will require sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and occasionally climbing on stools. Candidates must be able to navigate stairs and lift up to 20 lbs.
Supports and Guides (Direct Reports)
Special Education Assistant Teacher
Salary
The full-time starting salary range for this position is $52,000 - $65,000 annually depending on education and experience.
Application:
To apply, send an email with the subject line: Special Education Lead - T2 to [email protected] . Include your resume (in English), a cover letter describing why you are interested in the position and what qualities you bring to your work (in Spanish), and your teaching philosophy (1 - 2 pages in the language of your choice).