25-26 Self-Contained Special Education Teacher - $3,000 Signing Bonus

Self Contained Special Education Teacher

Summary

The Self-Contained Special Education Teacher provides a structured, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other exceptionalities. This role focuses on individualized instruction, social-emotional development, and fostering independence to ensure students achieve academic, social, and behavioral success. The teacher builds authentic relationships with students, collaborates with families, and works closely with support staff to meet the unique needs of each student. This individual plays a vital role in implementing evidence-based practices and the school's vision for equity and excellence, ensuring all students thrive. The Self-Contained Autistic Support Teacher reports to the Assistant Principal of Specialized Services and works collaboratively with the school team to support student progress and well-being.

About Deep Roots

Where students discover joy, belonging, and purpose

Authentic Relationships

At Deep Roots Charter School, we take the time to know our students and their families - their backgrounds, purpose, and passion - and provide a variety of experiences from leadership to mentoring, to social-emotional learning and multiple clubs within the school day.

Personalized Learning

Every child receives individualized attention tailored to their unique learning needs and strengths. Deep Roots maximizes various learning styles and prioritizes individual student support.

Our Core Values:

• Practice: Each and every individual in our school community, from students to leadership, will engage in deliberate practice, and value this as the path to excellence.
• Service: Our service-learning model will be discipline-based; it will require students to have a presence in the community, and reflect on their experiences regularly.
• Purpose: We want to empower our students to uncover their unique gifts and talents and apply them towards an outward purpose about which they are passionate.

Antiracist & Inclusive

We stand as an actively anti-racist organization, dedicated to supporting all students and families. We advocate for our communities and strive to dismantle barriers within and beyond our school walls.

Responsibilities & Duties

Develop and Implement Individualized Programs

• Create and deliver individualized lesson plans aligned with students' IEPs, emphasizing academic, functional, and social-emotional growth.
• Use evidence-based strategies and interventions tailored to meet the needs of students with ASD or other exceptionalities.
• Design classroom routines and transitions to provide predictability and structure for students.

Foster Social and Behavioral Development

• Implement positive behavior support plans (PBSPs) to address behavioral challenges and promote skill development.
• Support students in developing communication, self-regulation, and social interaction skills.
• Facilitate peer interactions to encourage social integration and collaborative learning opportunities.

Collaborate with Stakeholders

• Work closely with families to provide regular updates on student progress and strategies for success.
• Collaborate with related service providers (e.g., speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists) to integrate therapeutic goals into classroom instruction.
• Partner with general education teachers to promote inclusion and access to grade-level curriculum where appropriate.

Maintain a Supportive Classroom Environment

• Create a safe and welcoming classroom that respects students' sensory needs and preferences.
• Utilize assistive technologies and adaptive tools to enhance student engagement and learning.
• Model patience, empathy, and a commitment to high expectations for all students.

Ensure Compliance and Progress Monitoring

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of IEPs, progress reports, and other required records.
• Monitor and assess student progress toward IEP goals, adjusting instruction and supports as needed.
• Lead IEP meetings, fostering collaboration among families, staff, and service providers.

Contribute to School Culture and Growth

• Participate in professional development focused on autism education, inclusion practices, and special education compliance.
• Support school-wide initiatives, events, and service-learning projects aligned with the school's mission.
• Assist with school duties such as student supervision during lunch, recess, and transitions as needed.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Special Education, Education, or a related field required; Master's Degree preferred.
• Valid Pennsylvania special education teaching certification (or eligibility for certification).
• At least one year of experience working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, with a demonstrated track record of success.
• Strong knowledge of evidence-based practices for students with ASD, behavior management, and IEP development.

Title: Self-Contained Autistic Support Teacher

Location: Philadelphia, PA 19134

Job Type: Full-Time