Florida Connections Academy - Special Education Teacher, 2023-2024 School Year

School Summary

Florida Connections Academy (FCA) is a tuition-free, online public charter school serving students in grades K-12. FCA is authorized by Hillsborough County Public Schools and is governed by an independent Board of Directors. The school is accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement, the Northwest Accreditation Commission, and the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI), which are accrediting divisions of Cognia.

Position Summary and Responsibilities

Working from your home office in Florida, the Special Education Teacher will “virtually” manage instructional programs for students with special needs. Through use of the telephone, Internet and various curriculum tools they will consult regularly with learning coaches and students to ensure that each child successfully completes his/her instructional program. The Special Education Teacher will participate in all steps of the IEP process. They will work closely with other teachers and district professionals to ensure that the school’s special education program is successful and operating in compliance with federal and state regulations. The Special Education Teacher will utilize technology to deliver virtual instruction.
The Special Education Teacher will be responsible for the successful completion of the following tasks:

• Manage and provide instructional guidance, virtual teaching and general strategies for a caseload of students;
• Develop, write and help implement IEPs and 504 plans;
• Assist with administering state testing and coordinate the special adaptations that are required based on the IEP; and
• Assist with negotiating and executing contracts with service providers for students requiring such services;
• Participate in the school’s Student Support Team; help teachers and learning coaches develop and implement program modifications and strategies for all students;
• Assist with locating service providers for students needing related services as mandated by their IEPs;
• Consult with teachers and coordinate the implementation of specially designed instruction as defined in the IEP regarding students with specific needs and potential learning issues;
• Schedule, organize and conduct IEP related meetings in a virtual environment, as needed;
• Assist, as needed, with the organization and proper implementation of all paperwork, documentation and procedures for the IEP process;
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date data in the school’s Learning Management System and special education software;
• Other duties as assigned.
• Communicate regularly with parents/learning coaches of students with special needs to ensure that their IEP goals are being met, and that their needs are addressed in a timely and appropriate fashion;
• Provide direct services to students including services delivered through web-conferencing software, as needed;
• Evaluate tests and assessments, complete report cards and conduct parent conferences;

Requirements

• ESE K-12 certification required
• A valid Florida Teaching Certificate in Exceptional Student Education K-12 is required.
  • This position also requires one of the following additional certifications: Mathematics 6-12 or Elementary Education K-6.
• Strong technology skills (especially with Microsoft Office products)
• Degree in Special Education or related Education Field
• This position also requires one of the following additional certifications: Mathematics 6-12 or Elementary Education K-6.
• Customer focused approach
• High degree of flexibility
• ESOL Certification or Endorsement required
• Demonstrated ability to work well in fast paced environment
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
• Experience in policy (IDEA) and/or administration with Special Education
• Team player track record
• Travel across the state is required for state testing administration (may require overnight travel)

Florida Connections Academy strives to create an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the diversity of the people we serve. We foster fairness, equity, and inclusion to create a workplace environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.