What is the role of the special education teacher in implementing an IEP?

The role of the special education teacher in implementing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) primarily revolves around delivering specialized instruction and adapting the curriculum to meet the unique needs of each student with a disability. This adaptation is critical for enabling students to access the general education curriculum effectively while addressing their individual learning challenges.

The special education teacher designs and modifies lesson plans, instructional strategies, and materials to align with the goals set out in the IEP. By tailoring these educational approaches, the teacher ensures that students receive the necessary support to achieve their learning objectives in a way that is appropriate for their specific needs.

While conducting annual evaluations, managing administrative tasks, and providing extracurricular support are all important aspects of a special education program, they do not encapsulate the primary responsibility of the special education teacher concerning the IEP. The core focus of the teacher's role lies in delivering that specialized instruction, which directly influences the student's educational experience and outcomes.