Special Education Teacher -- Learning Support

Phoenixville Area School District (official); Phoenixville (Chester County); On-site; USD 48,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Phoenixville Area School District is seeking a Special Education Teacher to support students with special needs across academics, interpersonal skills, and daily living activities. The role requires implementing district-approved curriculum, documenting progress, and maintaining a safe, inclusive environment.

Responsibilities include conducting assessments, developing IEPs, coordinating with agencies, and communicating with families.

Qualifications

• PA Certification as a Special Education Teacher; emergency certification encouraged to apply.
• Experience with developing and implementing IEPs and behavior plans.
• Ability to collaborate with district staff and families.

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments to identify learning needs and plan interventions.
• Develop and monitor IEPs for students with special needs.
• Support IEP implementation and behavior management plans in classrooms.
• Coordinate with outside agencies and district staff as needed.
• Communicate with parents and document student progress and outcomes.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with laws.

Skills

IEP development

Behavior management

Collaboration with teachers

Communication with parents

Education

Bachelor's degree in Education

Master's Degree in Special Education preferred

Job description

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the supervisor of special education, to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students' specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Special Education Teacher

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the supervisor of special education, to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students' specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Essential Functions

• Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.
• Participates in developing Individual Educational Plans ("IEP") for students.
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
• Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with social work services.
• Serves as ready resource to students and parents to provide counseling that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as liaison between home and school.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing student information to prospective colleges and employers, as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.

Additional Duties

Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It 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.

Travel Requirements

Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities

Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.

Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.

Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.

Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.

Ability to use computer network system 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.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards

Works in standard office and school building environments.

Note: Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position.

Certification/License

Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.

Qualifications Profile

PA Certification as a Special Education Teacher (anticipated certification and candidates eligible for emergency certification encouraged to apply).

Education

Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.

Masters Degree in Special Education preferred

Experience

Successful prior special education teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.

FLSA Status: Exempt