Classroom Teacher / Special Education

This position supports the Gengras Center by developing and implementing the instructional strategies and activities that reflect knowledge and understanding of students intellectual, physical and social development. The teacher must have knowledge of teaching skills and competencies, be proficient in reading, writing and mathematics, and be capable of using computers, assistive technology and adaptive equipment that will enable the students to learn and participate. It is important for the teacher to create a classroom environment that encourages positive behaviors and have knowledge of behavior management strategies. Good communication skills that allow the teacher to interact effectively with students, staff, families, community members, administration, the USJ community and sending district personnel are vital. The teacher must maintain the professional standards required to fulfill the position responsibilities. Please visit the USJ career center for the full description.

Discipline Based Goals

• Demonstrate knowledge in the following areas:

• • Various disabilities and the impact of disabilities on classroom performance.
  • Implementation of strategies to facilitate student learning and behavior management.
  • Appropriate use of formal and informal assessment strategies and instruments; legal provisions, regulations and guidelines regarding student assessment.
  • Individualized Education Plans.
  • Planning and Placement Team process.
  • Negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
  • Data collection and interpretation to program effectively for students.
  • Behavior Intervention Plans.
  • Demonstrate understanding of state curriculum standards.
  • How students learn to read and respond to text; understanding of reading and writing as interactive process.
  • How students learn mathematical concepts, procedures and tasks.
  • Occupational/life skills curriculum and relevance to independent living and employment.
  • Plan and implement instructional strategies and activities that reflect knowledge of students intellectual, physical, and social/emotional development.
  • Create, select and adapt a variety of instructional activities, utilizing adaptive equipment, technology, and other resources to support student learning.
  • Create a classroom environment that encourages positive behaviors.
  • Coordinate with Gengras transdisciplinary team to facilitate integration of functional/academic skills throughout the curriculum.

Program Organization/Management

• Establish and maintain policies and procedures for program operation.
• Assist in the identification and implementation of program goals and objectives.
• Coordinate the planning and design of Special Education program including classroom instruction utilizing quarterly instructional goals and daily lesson plans.
• Provide instruction of students in Special Education program that promotes skill acquisition based on IEP goals/objectives and fosters independence.
• Design and facilitate meaningful integration activities for students with non-disabled peers.
• Assess performance of individual students and maintain data about student progress.
• Maintain a safe and healthy environment.

Foundational Skills and Competencies:

• Demonstrate knowledge of how students learn and develop and how they differ in their approach to learning.
• Design and deliver instruction and vary instructional methods based on learner needs.
• Plan relevant instruction that promotes learning, gives the subject meaning and fosters independence.
• Create instructional opportunities that support students academic, social, and personal development.
• Assess student learning, collect and analyze data, and modify instruction as appropriate, to meet IEP goals and objectives.
• Establish and maintain appropriate standards of behavior and create a positive learning environment that shows a commitment to students and their success.
• Share responsibility for student achievement and well-being.
• Other Responsibilities

Education & Experience

• Certified in Special Education; Masters Degree in Special Education preferred.
• At least 2 years experience working with special needs students.
• Knowledge and experience in Special Education instruction.
• Knowledge of teaching skills and competencies.
• Proficient in reading, writing and mathematics.

Other Qualifications

• Commitment to the mission of the University of Saint Joseph.
• Physical ability to perform essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.