The teacher designs and provides specialized instruction to students with moderate to severe/profound cognitive or developmental needs, aligning instruction to the Tennessee Alternate Assessment Standards as detailed in the Individual Educational Program (IEP). Responsibilities include collaborating with general educators, monitoring student progress, managing paraprofessional support, and coordinating related service providers.
Requirements summary
A Master's Degree from an accredited institution in a related field is required, though professional training and experience with individuals with disabilities are preferred. Candidates must possess thorough knowledge of special education principles, effective teaching methodologies for students with disabilities, and compliance with federal laws like IDEA.
We Are Team MNPS Metro Schools is one of the largest and most diverse school districts in the United States.
Our teachers and staff educate more than 80,000 students in Metro Nashville-Davidson County, preparing them to excel in higher education, work, and life.
Our district implements some of the most innovative reform strategies in the nation.
We seek to partner with highly effective, engaging teachers, teacher leaders and support staff with a passion for urban education and a go-getter spirit as we strive to become the highest-performing urban district in the nation.
Whether you are a teacher, an administrator, or a potential support staff employee, if you want to make a difference, we want to hear from you.
Job Summary
Designs and provides specialized instruction to students with moderate to severe/profound cognitive or developmental needs in accordance with federal, state, and district guidelines
What you will do
Provides direct instruction, intervention, and consultation for students on a modified curriculum that aligns to the Tennessee Alternate Assessment Standards as indicated on the Individual Educational Program (IEP).
Collaborates with general educators to plan assessments and analyze progress monitoring data to develop instructionally appropriate IEPs.
Progress monitors all students that receive intensive intervention in the area of academics, social-emotional and behavior to continually communicate progress toward goals with students, parents, and school team.
Plan and use data driven instructional strategies, resources, and equipment that reflect an understanding of the instructional needs of students.
Ensures students on a modified curriculum participate in required statewide test with appropriate accommodations and modifications.
Keep IEPs in compliance with State and Federal laws governing students with disabilities and manage paraprofessional support in the general education setting to ensure that students on a modified curriculum are in their least restrictive environment.
Schedules and facilitates IEP team meetings, re-evaluation meetings, and manifestation determination meetings in accordance with State and Federal laws governing services for students with disabilities.
Coordinates the delivery of services for students with disabilities with all related service providers (i.e. speech and language therapist, occupational therapist, physical therapist, nurse).
Develops, implement, and monitor Functional Behavior Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans based on student need.
Design classroom management systems and implement behavioral strategies that facilitate student learning and engagement. Prepares physical condition of classroom to reflect subject matter and to facilitate student learning.
Collaborates with general educators and related service providers to inform instruction, determine modifications/accommodations, identify supplemental supports, assign grades, and identify inclusive opportunities for students.
Participates in ongoing Professional Development activities to ensure the use of most effective, evidenced-based practices that promote success for students.
Education Qualifications
Master's Degree from an accredited institution in a related field Preferred
Experience Qualifications
Professional training and paid or volunteer experience with individuals with disabilities Preferred
Skills and Abilities
Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and procedures of special education and/or specialty area.
Thorough knowledge of the principles and methodology of effective teaching of students with disabilities.
Communication, and collaboration with Parents, educators, students,
Instructional strategies that connect the curriculum to the learner,
Student management,
Presenting to large groups,
Organization, data-based decision making, and problem solving,
Providing interventions.
Knowledge of the U.S. Department of Education’s Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or similar federal regulation.
Technology skills: Teams, Microsoft Office, Excel, SharePoint, iOS, and/or other district applications or equipment as needed.
At Metro Nashville Public Schools, we use detailed academic, behavior and social-emotional data to ensure every student in the district is known and our staff makes a concerted effort to tune into students' interests, passions, learning styles and needs. We focus on creating and supporting rigorous, engaging and personalized learning experiences for all students to identify and eliminate inequities - so every student has a clear and achievable path to success marked by measurable goals.
Offering a range of program and opportunities, MNPS has options to fit every family's needs. Whether you are looking for advanced academics, visual and performing arts, special education services, English language support or STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) educational programs, we offer the best choices to meet individual student needs - starting at Pre-K all the way through graduation.
Our Vision Metro Nashville Public Schools will be established as the premier large school district in Tennessee and beyond by ensuring that every student is known.
Our Mission We deliver a great public education to every student, every day.
Our Core Values Core values drive and focus our collective commitments included in our mission and vision. These values reflect the principles that guide our internal conduct, as well as our relationships with the external community. Our core values are woven throughout our goals, high-level strategies, and performance measures.
Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all individuals.
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools is dedicated to creating an inclusive work environment that reflects the diversity of our global community.
We strive to treat all employees and applicants with respect and fairness, and we make employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs.
The American Disabilities Act (ADA) requires MNPS to provide adequate accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities.
Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.
Market context
Special education teaching remains in demand
In Tennessee, special education teacher roles are typically in steady demand because schools need educators who can support students with diverse learning needs and comply with individualized education plans. This role is competitive when candidates bring a master’s degree, strong special education knowledge, and experience working with students with disabilities. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform, then compare them with the original posting and prepare examples of your classroom strategies and collaboration experience.
