Pre-K Teacher (Special Needs, 3-Year-Olds)

Sylvania; Georgia (VT); On-site; USD 38,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

Sylvania is seeking a dedicated Pre-K Teacher specializing in special needs for 3-year-olds. This role involves developing individualized educational programs and fostering a nurturing learning environment. Ideal candidates will hold a valid Georgia teaching certificate and possess strong communication skills, collaborating with families and education teams for the best student outcomes.

Qualifications

• Valid Georgia teaching certificate in Early Childhood Education and Special Education (P-5).
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to foster a supportive classroom culture.

Responsibilities

• Plans and implements developmentally appropriate programs for 3-year-old Pre-K students with special needs.
• Designs lesson plans to accommodate diverse learning abilities.
• Collaborates with special education staff and families to develop IEPs.

Skills

Communication

Collaboration

Knowledge of early childhood development

Adaptability

Education

Valid Georgia teaching certificate in Early Childhood Education and Special Education (P-5)

Job description

Pre-K Teacher (Special Needs, 3-Year-Olds)

Contract Work Year: 49% of 164/190 day equivalent

Minimum Qualifications

• Valid Georgia teaching certificate with certification in Early Childhood Education and Special Education (P-5), or eligibility for such certification as outlined by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
• Effective written and oral communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly with young children, parents, and colleagues.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a positive, inclusive work environment and foster a supportive classroom culture.
• Knowledge of early childhood development and special education practices, particularly for 3-year-old students with diverse learning needs.
• Develops, implements, monitors, and regularly reviews the IEPs of each student.
• Compiles, maintains, and submits accurate paperwork within designated timelines.
• Ability to adapt teaching methods and materials to meet the individual needs of students with disabilities.
• Preferred: Experience working with 3-year-old children and/or students with special needs.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Plans and implements a developmentally appropriate program of instruction for 3-year-old pre-K students with special needs, adhering to the Georgia Early Learning and Development Standards (GELDS) and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Designs and adapts lesson plans to accommodate diverse learning abilities, incorporating sensory, motor, and communication strategies to maximize engagement and learning.
• Creates a safe, inclusive, and nurturing classroom environment conducive to the developmental and emotional needs of young children with special needs.
• Employs a variety of evidence-based teaching strategies, including play-based learning, to promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
• Encourages student engagement and fosters foundational skills such as communication, self-regulation, and early academic concepts tailored to individual abilities.
• Collaborates with special education staff, therapists, and parents to develop and implement IEPs, ensuring alignment with student goals and needs.
• Provides regular progress reports and communicates effectively with parents/guardians regarding student development and IEP objectives.
• Prepares a substitute folder with appropriate lesson plans, accommodations, and student information as required by the principal.
• Maintains up-to-date knowledge of early childhood special education practices, assistive technologies, and learning theories.
• Participates in the ongoing curriculum revision process to ensure accessibility and appropriateness for students with special needs.
• Develops and consistently applies reasonable classroom rules and behavior management techniques that promote a positive and structured learning environment.
• Takes necessary precautions to ensure the safety of students, equipment, materials, and facilities, with particular attention to the unique needs of young children with disabilities.
• Responsibly supervises students during the school day, including transitions, meals, and activities, as well as assigned extracurricular or support activities.
• Upholds and enforces Board policies, administrative procedures, and school rules, with a focus on creating an inclusive environment.
• Maintains appropriate work habits, including regular and punctual attendance and effective use of planning and conference time.
• Collaborates with the administration to plan and participate in professional development focused on early childhood special education.
• Attends staff, department, IEP, and committee meetings as required.
• Evaluates student progress using multiple assessment methods appropriate for 3-year-olds, including observational assessments and progress monitoring tools.
• Adjusts instructional strategies as required by the principal or IEP team to meet student needs.
• Respects the confidentiality of student, parent, and teacher records and information in accordance with professional ethics, state, and federal laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Principal or Superintendent.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to to lift and carry 35 to 50 pounds (e.g., assisting children with mobility needs, classroom materials).
• Ability to bend, kneel, and sit on the floor to engage with students.
• Ability to stand and actively move around the classroom for extended periods
• Ability to assist students with self-care tasks, such as feeding, dressing, toileting (as needed).
• Ability to respond quickly in case of an emergency.

Essential Duties

This job description is intended to summarize the essential duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and requirements for the role of a Pre-K Teacher for special needs students. It does not list all tasks an employee may be expected to perform, and it does not limit the right of the employer/supervisor to assign additional tasks or modify duties as needed.