Autism Spectrum Disorder Teacher

POSITION

Autism Spectrum Disorder Teacher. Livonia Public Schools seeks to screen, assess and intervene to assist school teams in determining appropriate options for students with or suspected of having Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Livonia Public Schools employs approximately 1,800 staff members, serving approximately 13,100 students pre-K to post secondary. The district includes 15 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, 3 high schools, 1 career technical center, 1 early childhood center and 1 vocational and transition center.

Newly hired public school employees are eligible for a traditional pension and tax-deferred retirement savings accounts with an employer matching contribution. Employees are automatically enrolled in a Personal Healthcare Fund (PHF). Livonia Public Schools contributes a dollar-for-dollar match on the first 2% the employee contributes. Other benefits include a positive work climate, mutual respect, and opportunities typically available to employees.

Perks of employment include:

• Medical insurance, including prescription drug coverage: district contribution is the maximum allowed by Michigan law; family coverage for employees working 30+ hours per week; single coverage for 20–29 hours; optional cash in lieu for those who qualify.
• Dental, vision, and life insurance: district pays 100% of the premium for all employees.
• Long-term disability coverage: district pays 100% of the premium for employees working 20+ hours per week.
• Employee Assistance Program for employees and eligible family members (confidential, short-term counseling, 7 days a week).
• Longevity pay.
• Paid “act of God” days, such as snow days.

Children of employees living outside the district boundaries may attend Livonia Public Schools via schools of choice for those who qualify.

The following are minimum qualifications for this position; any may be waived by the Administration:

• Bachelor’s degree in special education
• Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate with endorsement in autism spectrum disorder
• Temporary approval may be considered if enrolled in a university program for teachers of students with autism spectrum disorder; commitment to securing full certification as soon as possible
• Passionate commitment to improving learning for all students
• Ability to individualize instruction
• Ability to establish positive working relationships with all stakeholders
• Superior verbal and written communication skills
• Knowledge of positive behavioral supports and interventions
• Experience implementing a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework preferred
• Evidence of ability to collaborate with other professional staff

The special education teacher is assigned to the Department of Student Services and, after assignment to a building, reports to the principal and the student services coordinator who provide leadership for program implementation.

• Champion the District’s mission and commitments to prioritize students’ needs
• Create a welcoming, engaging, and positive classroom climate
• Develop lesson plans and instructional materials; provide individualized and small group instruction; adapt curriculum to student needs
• Assess students using formal and informal evaluation procedures
• Use motivation and behavior management strategies appropriate for students with autism spectrum disorder
• Provide instruction in self-care, daily living skills, social/emotional development, leisure, personal adjustment, and work skills
• Implement daily activities aligned with developmental needs
• Establish and maintain effective parent and community relationships
• Apply current evidence-based practices in special education
• Develop…