Primary One Teacher - Special Education

Primary One Teacher - Special Education (K-2) JobID: 924 Position Type: Elementary School Teaching Date Posted: 6/5/2026 Primary One Special Education Teacher (K-2) Forest Avenue School seeks a dynamic, student-centered special educator to join our Primary One program serving students in Grades K-2. Primary One is a highly individualized special education program designed to support students with a wide range of learning, behavioral, social-emotional, communication, and developmental needs. The successful candidate will: Develop and implement individualized instruction aligned to student IEP goals Collaborate closely with general education teachers to support inclusive practices and maximize student participation in the Least Restrictive Environment Create engaging and differentiated learning experiences for students with diverse learning profiles Utilize evidence-based literacy, mathematics, behavioral, and social-emotional instructional practices Maintain strong communication with families regarding student growth and progress Coordinate and supervise paraprofessionals supporting student programming Foster a positive, supportive classroom culture that emphasizes student dignity, independence, self-regulation, and growth Collaborate effectively with Child Study Team members, related service providers, administrators, and families Forest Avenue School seeks educators who are energetic, reflective, creative, collaborative, and committed to continuous learning. Candidates should possess a genuine love for working with children and a willingness to adapt to the evolving needs of students and programs. The successful candidate may also provide other special education and tiered intervention services as needed to support district programming. Position Purpose Under the general supervision of the School Principal and Director of Student Services, 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 students' abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with social work services. Serves as a 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 a liaison between home and school. Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn about 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. Selects and requisitions appropriate books, aids, and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records. Additional Duties Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal, Director of Student Services, 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 Travel Requirements Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required. Skills, Knowledge, Abilities Strong knowledge of evidence-based special education practices Knowledge of NJ Student Learning Standards for Grades PreK-2 Strong literacy instructional practices and intervention strategies Ability to provide modifications, accommodations, and differentiated instruction Strong communication and relationship-building skills with students, families, and staff Knowledge of inclusive practices and Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) programming Ability to collect, analyze, and utilize student performance data to guide instruction Ability to maintain a calm, positive, and flexible approach while supporting students with diverse academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs Willingness to obtain and maintain certification in Personal Control Techniques (PCT) and other district-approved de-escalation strategies 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 Applied Behavior Analysis 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 engage in self-evaluation concerning performance and professional growth Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those 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. Qualifications Profile Certification/License Required NJ Teacher of Students with Disabilities (TOSD) Certification Preferred Dual certification (TOSD and Elementary School Teacher K-6 OR Preschool through Grade 3) Orton‑Gillingham, Wilson, IMSE, LETRS, or other structured literacy training Experience implementing behavior intervention plans Education Bachelor's Degree required Master's Degree in Special Education or related field preferred Experience Successful experience teaching students with disabilities in elementary settings Experience developing and implementing IEP goals and objectives Experience supporting students with emotional regulation needs, ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental delays, and behavioral challenges Experience collaborating with Child Study Teams, related service providers, and general education teachers Experience supervising and directing paraprofessionals Experience implementing positive behavior supports and behavioral intervention plans Other Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation. #J-18808-Ljbffr Glen-Ridge-School-District