JOB TITLE:  Dyslexia Therapist                                               WAGE/STATUS:  Exempt

REPORTS TO:  Principal/Special Programs Director             PAY GRADE:  164 days 

DEPT/SCHOOL:  Assigned Campus/Campuses             DATE REVISED:  March 2024

PRIMARY PURPOSE: 

Provide students with appropriate learning activities and experiences designed to help them reach their potential by developing competencies and skills to function successfully in society.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education / Certification:

Bachelor’s Degree from accredited university

Valid Texas teaching certificate with required special education endorsements for assignments

Special Knowledge and Skills:

Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT)

Scottish Rite Take Flight Training Preferred

Knowledge of special needs of students in assigned area

Knowledge of Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee process and Individual Education Plan (IEP) goal setting process and implementation

General knowledge of curriculum and instruction

Experience:

At least one-year student teaching or approved internship

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: 

Instructional Strategies:

• Collaborate with students, parents, and other members of staff to develop IEP through the ARD Committee process for each student assigned.
• Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of the district’s curriculum program and demonstrate written evidence of preparation, as required.
• Implement an instructional, therapeutic, or skill development program for assigned students and show written evidence of preparation as required.
• Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.
• Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula as needed and assist special education students in regular classes with assignments.
• Participate in ARD Committee meetings on a regular basis.
• Conduct assessment of student learning styles and use results to plan for instructional activities.
• Present subject matter according to guidelines established by IEP, as well as TEA guidelines, Board policies and administration regulation.
• Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media to meet the needs and capabilities of each student assigned.

• Plan and supervise assignments for teacher aide(s) and volunteer(s).
• Use technology to strengthen teaching/learning process.

Student Growth and Development:

• Conduct ongoing assessments of student achievement through formal and informal testing.
• Provide or supervise personal care, medical care, and feeding of students as stated in IEP.
• Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by campus principal.
• Be a positive role model for students and support mission of school district.

Classroom Management and Organization:

• Create classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.
• Manage student behavior in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and Student Handbook.. This includes intervening in crisis situations and physically restraining students as necessary according to IEP.
• Consult with classroom teachers regarding management of student behavior according to IEP.
• Consult district and outside resource people regarding education, social, medical, and personal needs of students.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Assist in selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials

Communication:

• Establish and maintain open lines of communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, principals, and teachers.
• Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents, and community members.
• Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.

Professional Growth and Development:

• Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, students, and parents.

Other:

• Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.
• Understand and comply with federal, state, district, and school regulations and policies for special education teachers.
• Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other required documents in a timely manner.
• Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Supervise assigned teacher aide(s).

EQUIPMENT USED:

Uses PC, printer, copier, fax machine, calculator, new technology equipment and devices as acquired by the district.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands:

Ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written)

Ability to operate and learn new technology systems

Maintain emotional control under stress

Physical Demands/Environment Factors:

Repetitive hand motions

Prolonged use of computer

Exposure to computer emissions

Move small stacks of textbooks, media equipment, desks, and other classroom or adaptive 

               equipment.

May be required to lift and position students with physical disabilities

Assist non-ambulatory students.

Other:

Work as a team member and with peers, teachers, campus personnel and principals.  Professional demeanor, and resourcefulness communicate effectively with diverse groups and accept supervision.

EVALUATION:

This position will be evaluated in accordance with Community Independent School District Policy DBN(LEGAL).