Special Education Teacher - Intensive Program

The Maryland School for the Blind; Nottingham (NH); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized educational institution is seeking an educator for their Intensive Program. The role involves instructing visually impaired students, developing individualized educational programs (IEPs), and implementing evidence-based strategies to improve student outcomes. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Education, be able to secure special education certification, and have experience with complex disabilities. This full-time position offers a structured schedule following the school year.

Qualifications

• Comprehensive knowledge of special education programs.
• Ability to secure MD certification in special education.
• Experience managing students with varying disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Teaches visually impaired students with multiple disabilities.
• Implements Applied Behavior Analysis strategies.
• Collaborates with service providers and family members.

Skills

Knowledge of special education principles

Ability to develop and write IEPs

Experience with autism and complex disabilities

Knowledge of visual impairment and adaptations

Classroom resource management

Ability to lift and provide physical support

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Education

MSDE certification in Vision (preferred)

Special education certification (required)

Tools

Low vision devices

Assistive technology

Data collection software

Job description

SUMMARY

With supervision and support from the Senior BCBA/Program Coordinator, provides instruction and educational case management for students in MSB’s Intensive Program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Providing Service:
   • Teaches visually impaired students with multiple disabilities and significant intersecting and interfering instructional and behavioral needs on an individual and group basis.
   • Implements evidence‑based Applied Behavior Analysis strategies specific to skill acquisition (instruction) and behavioral excesses (reduction).
   • Collects data specific to IEP goals, general instruction, and behavior reduction.
   • Instructs in core curriculum, expanded core, life skills, and self‑care (includes toileting, feeding, and hygiene) areas.
   • Facilitates and participates in the development, review and evaluation of individualized educational program (IEP), which may require the ability to observe and respond to a variety of environmental stimuli.
   • Conducts evaluations and assessments to determine child's developmental status, academics status, and mastery of Maryland grade level curriculum standards.
   • Collaborates with Related Service Providers, school administrators, Local Educational Agencies and school systems, families, residential staff, and other stakeholders to ensure design and implementation of high‑quality instructional programming.
2. Coordinating Service:
   • Participates in interdisciplinary team meetings, IEP meetings, staff meetings, and other school and student meetings as needed.
   • Plans and/or chaperones on and off‑campus activities, appointments, programs and field trips which may require the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
   • Manages classroom resources.
   • Oversees and monitors a number of paraprofessional staff in the classroom.
   • Coordinates data collection and recording.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

• Plans and participates in on and off‑campus student activities.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

CONDITIONS

• Equipment Used: Low vision devices (high & low tech), assistive technology used by students who are blind or visually impaired, copy machine, computer and software including a variety of cloud conferencing and data collection platforms, various adaptive and orthopedic equipment and telephone.
• Performance Standard: Must assure 100% commitment to the integration, coordination, and implementation of student programs, and compliance with health and safety standards.
• Work Environment: Multiple indoor and outdoor environments with varying sound, lighting and temperature conditions. May be exposed to various conditions when providing direct care to students.
• Work Schedule: 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with a 30‑minute unpaid lunch period. This position follows the standard eleven‑month school schedule. Additional hours or flex schedule may be required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Comprehensive knowledge of special education principles, practices, and procedures, including developing and writing IEP's and performing appropriate teaching techniques. Experience working with autism and complex disabilities involving behavioral needs preferred.
• Minimum of Bachelor’s degree and ability to secure MSDE certification with an endorsement in Vision (PREFERRED) and special education (REQUIRED).
• General knowledge of visual impairment, including causes, manifestations and adaptations PREFERRED.
• General knowledge of medical disorders such as seizures or restrictions; alternate modes of communication; feeding techniques and orthopedic impairment/handling and positioning.
• General knowledge of core and expanded core curriculum, program development, classroom resource management, and student/personnel scheduling.
• Ability to push, pull, and/or lift in excess of 150 pounds, with assistance.