Special Education Teachers, Daycare Center

Summary

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Special Education Teacher to support and nurture students with disabilities, including autism, in a caring and structured learning environment. The ideal candidate will create and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to each student's unique strengths and needs, fostering their academic, social, and emotional development. This role requires patience, creativity, skill, and a strong commitment to inclusion, ensuring that every child feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. The teacher will collaborate with parents, therapists, and other educators to provide comprehensive support while utilizing evidence-based teaching strategies to enhance learning and communication.

Duties

Job duties include, but aren't limited to -
- Develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) to meet the unique learning needs of each student.
- Utilize evidence-based teaching strategies to enhance learning, communication, and social skills.
- Create a structured, supportive, and inclusive classroom environment that fosters student engagement and growth.
- Adapt and modify curriculum and instructional methods to accommodate various learning styles and abilities.
- Provide behavioral support using positive reinforcement and appropriate interventions.
- Collaborate with parents, therapists, and other educators to ensure a well-rounded approach to student development.
- Assist students in developing life skills and social interactions to support independence and confidence.
- Monitor and document student progress, making necessary adjustments to educational strategies as needed.
- Implement assistive technologies and other resources to support learning and communication.
- Foster an environment of patience, empathy, and encouragement, ensuring students feel valued and understood.
- Follow guidelines set forth from VDOE and The Department of Social Services.

Requirements

Qualifications & Requirements:
- Education: Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Special Education, Early Childhood Education, or a related field.
- Certification: State teaching certification in Special Education or relevant endorsements.
- Experience: Prior experience working with children with disabilities, particularly autism, in an educational setting.
- Skills:
- Strong knowledge of IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) and special education laws/regulations.
- Familiarity with behavioral management techniques and evidence-based interventions.
- Ability to modify curriculum and instruction to support diverse learning needs.
- Proficiency in using assistive technology to enhance communication and learning.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills with families, therapists, and school staff.
- Personal Attributes:
- Patience, empathy, creativity, and communication in teaching approaches.
- Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in classroom settings.
- Dedication to inclusive education and student-centered learning.

Nice To Haves

Preferred Qualifications & Skills:
- *Advanced Certifications: Additional training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Autism Spectrum Disorders, or assistive technology integration.
- Experience with Sensory Needs: Understanding of sensory processing challenges and strategies for managing sensory sensitivities in the classroom.
- Training in Alternative Communication Methods: Familiarity with AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices, sign language, or visual supports.
- Crisis Intervention Skills: Experience with de-escalation techniques and handling challenging behaviors with a calm approach.
- Specialized Instruction Techniques: Knowledge of structured teaching methods like TEACCH or PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System).
- Bilingual Abilities: Ability to communicate in multiple languages to support diverse students and families.
- Collaborative Mindset: Strong ability to work with multidisciplinary teams, including occupational therapists, speech therapists, and behavioral specialists.
- Creativity & Adaptability: Willingness to innovate and personalize teaching strategies to maximize student engagement.

Benefits

Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive Salary: Based on experience, certifications, and level of education.
- Retirement Plans: Participation in pension programs or 401(k) with employer contributions.
- Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, holidays, sick leave, and personal days.
- Professional Development: Opportunities for workshops, certifications, and continuing education courses.
- Flexible Scheduling: Potential for work-life balance accommodations based on school policies.
- Supportive Work Environment: Access to classroom assistants, and collaborative staff to ensure an effective teaching approach.