Elementary Teacher at a School for Special Needs

Blue Jay Academy; DeLand (FL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO and holiday pay

Discounted childcare

Voluntary insurance plans

401(k) options

Leadership development opportunities

Job summary

Blue Jay Academy in DeLand, FL is seeking an energetic educator to create a safe, engaging classroom for young children. You will implement curriculum, guide behavior with positive strategies, and partner with families to support each child’s growth.

Ideal candidates have a background in early childhood education, 1–2 years of preschool teaching, and knowledge of licensing requirements, CPR/First Aid where required, and ongoing professional development commitments.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• Minimum 1–2 years of teaching experience in a preschool or early childhood setting.
• Knowledge of state licensing requirements and classroom compliance expectations.
• Must meet all state education, certification (including CPR/First Aid where required), licensing and regulatory requirements; pass background check and ongoing professional development.

Responsibilities

• Create a safe, nurturing classroom environment while meeting safety and ratio requirements.
• Lead activities that support children’s learning and development.
• Observe, document, and share student progress with families; collaborate with team for consistent classroom experiences.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Early childhood education or related field

Job description

Who Are We?

Blue Jay Academy is a private school for children with special needs and disabilities from grades K through 12. Serving Volusia County special needs students, Blue Jay Academy is a progressive school for children who struggle with any type of disability or special need. We work with children that have various special needs, including ADHD, Autism and Processing Deficits.

At Blue Jay Academy we provide a high-quality, friendly and caring environment with therapy in order to increase the academic and behavioral abilities of our students. Our dedicated, child centered program is the most important factor in providing the best services and education to our students.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As an educator, you’ll create a safe, engaging classroom where children grow, learn, and build confidence each day. Through curriculum implementation, positive guidance, and strong partnerships with families and your team, you’ll deliver consistent, high-quality early learning experience.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Create a safe, nurturing classroom environment and ensure compliance with safety and ratio requirements
• Lead activities that support children’s learning and development
• Provide active supervision and guide behavior through positive reinforcement
• Support daily routines, including meals, naps, and transitions
• Observe, document, and share student progress with families
• Collaborate with your team to deliver consistent, high-quality classroom experience

Each day is an opportunity to positively impact a child’s growth and early learning experience.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

We’re seeking educators who are committed, collaborative, and motivated to make a difference in early childhood education.

You’ll be a great fit if you:

• Bring a genuine passion for working with young children
• Build strong, trusting relationships with children, families, and team members
• Embrace learning, feedback, and ongoing professional growth
• Show up reliable, prepared, and ready to contribute each day
• Adapt easily in a dynamic, fast-paced classroom environment
• Create inclusive, welcoming spaces where every child feels valued

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required. Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• Minimum 1–2 years of teaching experience in a preschool or early childhood setting preferred.
• Knowledge of state licensing requirements and classroom compliance expectations.
• Must meet all state-specific education, certification (including CPR/First Aid, where required), licensing, and regulatory requirements, including the ability to pass a background check and complete ongoing professional development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with children, families, and team members.
• Must be at least 18 years of age

WHAT YOU’LL GET

• Competitive pay (based on experience and location)
• Paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay
• Discounted childcare
• Option to purchase various voluntary insurance plans
• 401(k) options
• Ongoing leadership development and career growth opportunities