Summary 

 

Responsible for instruction in assigned content area/grade level.  Plans learning experiences that motivate students and meet their individual needs. Prepares and utilizes instructional materials that support overall curricular goals, adhering to state standards and curriculum resources available at NMSD. Uses formative assessment to inform instructional planning. Integrates critical thinking skills and literacy/signacy into lesson plans. Supports NMSD’s progressive vision and mission.  

 

It is anticipated and expected that all functions of this position will be performed in a positive and respectful manner, with a strong focus on advancing the mission and vision of New Mexico School for the Deaf. The duties and competencies listed are comprehensive yet not all inclusive of this position. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Other duties may be assigned) 

 

• Prepares and implements state mandated standards for assigned age group/area, Course Objectives, Instructional Units and Lesson Plans. 

• Follows established schedules and utilizes NMSD curriculum guidelines and requirements. 

• Plans learning experiences that motivate students and meet their individual needs.  Assigns lessons and corrects homework if appropriate. 

• Prepares and utilizes instructional materials that support overall curricular goals.  

• Develops and utilizes formative assessment to inform instructional planning.  Administers summative assessment to evaluate student progress.   

• Prepares records and reports on students’ progress as required.  Keeps attendance records. 

• Ensures student safety at all times. 

• Maintains discipline in the classroom. 

• Meets with principal to discuss student progress and develop plans to address issues that may come up. 

• Completes duties related to Individual Education Plans or Individual Family Service plans (for preschool teachers), including assessment, writing present levels of performance and goals and/or benchmarks for individual students. 

• Differentiates instruction using targeted focus on each student’s individual needs and progress based on IEPs/IFSPs and assessment data. 

• Attends required meetings and trainings. 

• Participates in in-service activities provided by the school, and in self-selected professional growth activities.  

• Works productively with colleagues, parents, and community members. 

• Serves as a Primary Contact Teacher for students as assigned, contacting parents with updates about their child, and supporting students as needed. 

• Serves on faculty committees and curricular work groups as required. 

• Regular attendance during school hours is required. 

 

Position-Specific Qualifications: 

 

 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

 

Education and/or Experience: 

 

• Possession of Bachelor's and/or Master’s Degree in Deaf Education, Special Education, or related areas.  Highly qualified in assigned content area, or commitment towards attaining Highly Qualified status. Strong academic background in assigned content area and age/grade group, including methods of teaching.  

Certificates and Licenses:  

• Must possess a New Mexico Teachers License with the New Mexico Public Education Department or be eligible to obtain one. Maintains current licensure as required by New Mexico regulations.  

Special Skills:  

 

• To perform this job successfully, an individual should have working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications among other programs.  Ability to utilize Smart Boards, iPads, laptops, and document readers in classroom situations.   Able to utilize web-based resources to supplement instructional materials. 

 

General Qualifications and Expectations: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.??  

• Commitment to Vision- Must be committed to NMSD’s Vision, Mission, and Beliefs 

 

• Language Skills- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports and correspondence. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, and the general public.  

• American Sign Language: Proficiency in or willingness to learn American Sign Language required. 

• Written Communication: Writes clearly and informatively; varies writing style to meet needs.? 

• Organization- Must be organized and detail-oriented.? 

• Analytical- collects and aggregates data for program maintenance and improvement.? 

• Continuous Learning- Seeks feedback to improve performance; pursues training and development opportunities; strives to continuously build knowledge and skills.? 

• Job Knowledge- Competent in required job skills and knowledge; exhibits ability to learn and apply new skills; keeps abreast of current developments; requires minimal supervision; displays understanding of how job relates to others; uses resources effectively.? 

• Use of Technology- Adapts to new technologies; troubleshoots technological problems; uses technology to increase productivity.?Has a working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Outlook. 

• Mathematical Skills- Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide into all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.? Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percentage and to draw and interpret bar graphs.? 

 

• Reasoning Ability- Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.? Ability to think independently, solve problems and work with the whole team.  

• Problem Solving- Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works in group problem solving situations.? 

• Cooperation- Establishes and maintains effective relations; exhibits tact and consideration; offers assistance and support to co-workers; works cooperatively in group situations; works actively to resolve conflicts.? 

• Teamwork- Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views; gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit; supports everyone’s efforts to succeed.? 

• Diversity- Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; educates others on the value of diversity; builds a diverse workforce.? 

• Ethics- Treats people with respect; keeps commitments; inspires the trust of others; works with integrity and principles. 

• Organizational Support- Follows policies and procedures; completes tasks correctly and on time; supports organization’s goals and values.? 

• Adaptability- Manages competing demands.? 

• Personal Appearance-?Dresses appropriately for position; keeps self well groomed.? 

• Attendance/Punctuality- Is consistently at work and on time; ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent.? 

• Dependability- Follows instructions, responds to management direction; takes responsibility for own actions.? 

• Initiative- Seeks increased responsibilities; asks for and offers help when needed.? 

• Quality- Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; looks for ways to improve and promote quality.? 

• Safety and Security- Observes safety and security procedures; determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; reports potentially unsafe conditions.?? 

• Physical Demands- The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to drive for long periods of time; stand; walk and sit. Unless otherwise stated in this job description, the employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds.? 

 

NMSD is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. We adhere to all applicable laws, statutes, and regulations regarding equal employment opportunities and affirmative action.? As an equal opportunity employer, we ensure that all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability status, genetic information, family and medical leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.