Autistic Support Teacher

Ephrata Area School District; United States; On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Ephrata Area School District is looking for an Elementary Autistic Support Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. This role focuses on providing specialized support and creating tailored learning plans for students with autism spectrum disorder.

The ideal candidate will hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree in special education and possess PA Certification in Special Education for grades K-4. Qualified candidates will work closely with students, families, and staff to ensure educational success and inclusivity.

Qualifications

• Create and implement individualized education plans (IEP).
• Experience in diverse learning strategies.
• Patience and empathy for working with students with special needs.

Responsibilities

• Assess individual needs and create personalized learning plans.
• Develop and implement strategies for diverse learning styles.
• Collaborate with teachers and parents to create inclusive environments.

Skills

Instructional strategies

Collaboration

Assessment tools

Communication

Knowledge of learning disabilities

Education

Bachelor's degree in special education

PA Certification in Special Education

Job description

Ephrata Area School District, 803 Oak Boulevard, Ephrata, PA, is recruiting for the position of an Elementary Autistic Support Teacher starting the 2026-2027 school year.

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Autistic Support Teacher to join our team and make a positive impact on the lives of students with autism spectrum disorder. The Autistic Support Teacher will work collaboratively with students, families, and school staff to provide specialized instruction and support tailored to the unique needs of each student. The primary goal is to help students overcome educational challenges and achieve their full potential.

Responsibilities

• Assessing students' individual needs and creating personalized learning plans.
• Developing and implementing strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities.
• Collaborating with classroom teachers and parents/guardians to create inclusive learning environments.
• Providing direct instruction and support to students, both in one‑on‑one and group settings.
• Modifying and adapting curriculum materials and instructional methods as necessary.
• Monitoring students' progress and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.
• Documenting and maintaining records of students' academic and behavioral development.
• Participating in individualized education program (IEP) meetings and multidisciplinary team discussions.
• Collaborating with other professionals, such as psychologists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists, to address students' specific needs.
• Keeping up‑to‑date with best practices and developments in the field of special education.

Qualifications and Requirements

Education: A bachelor's degree in special education minimum.

Certification: PA Certification in Special Education covering grades Kindergarten – Grade 4.

Experience: Relevant teaching certification or licensure, such as a special education teaching license. Student teaching experience in a supervised education program at an accredited institution.

Ability to create and implement instructional strategies and accommodations for diverse learners.

Ability to create and implement individualized education plans (IEP).

Knowledge of different learning disabilities, behavioral disorders, and developmental delays.

Familiarity with assessment tools and strategies for identifying students' individual needs.

Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with students, parents/guardians, and other educators.

Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for working with students with special needs.

Experience in implementing instructional strategies and accommodations for diverse learners.

Understanding of relevant laws, policies, and regulations governing special education.

Ongoing professional development to stay informed about current research and best practices in the field.

Workplace Expectations

• Must demonstrate regular and punctual attendance. Must interact positively with administration, students, staff, parents, and community members.
• Must demonstrate professionalism and appropriate judgment in behavior & speech and dress in a neat, clean, and professional manner.
• Must follow all District policies, work procedures, and reasonable requests by proper authority.
• Must maintain the integrity of confidential information within the Business Office.
• Follow established protocols as outlined in Student/Faculty/Support Staff handbook.

Additional Requirements

Applicants must also possess the following: criminal clearances obtained within the last 12 months: Act 34 – PA Criminal Record; Act 114 – FBI Background Check; Act 151 – PA Child Abuse Clearance. The district also requires a pre‑employment drug test, physical, and TB test upon offer of employment as directed by PDE and the PA Department of Health.

Contracted Position. Salary: Current EAEA Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The Ephrata Area School District will not discriminate in employment, education programs, or activities based on race, sex, handicap, or national origin. This policy of non‑discrimination extends to all other legally protected classifications in accordance with state and federal laws including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Section 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.