Primary One Teacher - Special Education (K-2)

Position Overview Primary One Special Education Teacher (K‑2) at Forest Avenue School. The teacher serves students with a wide range of learning, behavioral, social‑emotional, communication, and developmental needs in a highly individualized special education program. Primary Responsibilities 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 a 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 emphasizing student dignity, independence, self‑regulation, and growth. Collaborate effectively with Child Study Team members, related service providers, administrators, and families. Essential Functions Conduct assessments, testing, and diagnostic examinations of students to identify learning issues and recommend courses of action or corrective procedures. Participate in developing Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) for students. Assist students and teaching staff in implementing IEPs and behavior management plans. Coordinate with outside agencies, organizations, and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed. Coordinate with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual students’ abilities and needs. Serve as a resource and counseling liaison between home and school to promote students’ personal growth, self‑understanding, and behavioral management. Continue to acquire professional knowledge by attending seminars, workshops, or professional meetings, conducting research, and maintaining professional relationships. Organize and maintain accurate record‑keeping systems and provide student information to prospective colleges and employers per district procedures and applicable laws. Encourage parental involvement and ensure effective communication with students and parents. Select and requisition appropriate books, aids, and supplies, and maintain inventory records. Additional Duties Perform other related tasks as assigned by the Principal, Director of Student Services, and other central office administrators. Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities and is not meant to be all‑inclusive of every task or responsibility. Equipment Uses standard office equipment. Travel Requirements Travel 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 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, and proven methods of maximizing educational experience for 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 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 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 Spectrum 360 A NJ Non Profit Corp.