Special Education Teacher – Self Contained (Anticipated Opening)
- Position Type: Elementary School Teaching
- Date Posted: 3/25/2026
- Location: District Wide
- Date Available: 09/01/2026
Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the School Principal and Director of Special Services, to facilitate student success and growth in academic and interpersonal skills through implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities/outcomes; addressing specific educational needs of individual students and by creating a flexible, safe and optimal learning environment; and providing feedback to students, parents and administration regarding student progress, expectations, goals, etc.
Essential Functions
- Develop and administer curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives.
- Promote a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
- Develop lesson plans and instructional materials and translate lesson plans into learning experiences so as to best utilize the available time for instruction.
- Conduct ongoing assessment of student learning, and modify instructional methods to fit individual students’ needs, including students with special needs; conduct individual and small group instruction as needed.
- Promote appropriate plans to support and develop social, emotional and academic growth.
- Participate in PPTs and assist in developing Individual Educational Plans ("IEP") for students.
- Assist students and teaching staff in implementing students’ IEPs and behavior management plans.
- Continuously acquire professional knowledge and stay current with developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
- Organize and maintain a system for accurate and complete record‑keeping, grading and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
- Encourage parental involvement in students’ education and ensure effective communication with students and parents.
- Ensure that student conduct conforms with the school’s standards and district policies, and establish and maintain standards of pupil behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.
- Coordinate with other preschool professional staff members, especially within grade level, to evaluate and assess curriculum, and participate in faculty meetings and committees.
- Select and requisition appropriate books, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment and maintain inventory records.
- Supervise students in activities that take place out of the classroom during the school day, including activities involving school transportation.
Additional Duties
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent. The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities and is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
Equipment
Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, and the ability to differentiate instruction based upon student learning styles.
- Knowledge of early childhood and developmentally appropriate curriculum and concepts.
- Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and formulation of action plans.
- Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
- Ability to use computer network systems and software applications as needed.
- Ability to organize and coordinate work.
- Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
- Ability to engage in self‑evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
- Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
Qualifications Profile
- Certification/License: P‑3 Teacher Certification (Standard, CEAS or CE) or K‑5 or K‑6.
Education
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Education or related discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
- Master's Degree in Early Childhood and/or Special Education.
Experience
Successful prior teaching experience for the appropriate grade levels is a plus.
Application Procedure
All interested candidates must apply online. All certifications, resumes, letters of reference, praxis scores and transcripts must be uploaded prior to the closing date of the posting to be considered for any position in the Garfield School District. Once you submit an application you will receive an email confirmation. This is your confirmation; please do not call to inquire if it was received. All candidates of interest will be contacted by the hiring administrator.
Selection Procedure
Candidates being considered for the position will be contacted by the hiring administrator to schedule an interview. Effective September 1, 2011, all employees of school districts must reside in the State of New Jersey, unless exempted under law. If you already work for the school district as of September 1, 2011 and you do not live in New Jersey, you are not required to move to New Jersey. However, if you begin your office, position or employment on September 1, 2011 or later, you must reside in New Jersey. If you do not reside in New Jersey, you have one year after the date you take your office, position or employment to relocate your residence to New Jersey. If you do not do so, you are subject to removal from your office, position or employment.
Salary
Salary is based upon experience, GFT guide and approval of Superintendent.
Garfield Board of Education is an equal opportunity employer.