High School Learning Support Teacher

Special Education
- Learning Support
- High School Classroom Teacher

The Learning Support Teacher plans and administers the instructional program and classroom operation in compliance with guidelines and regulations determined by the administration, Board of Directors, state and federal agencies. He/she will create an environment that encourages learning, motivates students to develop skills, maximizes independence, emphasizes communication and affords opportunities to generalize skills in natural settings as well as participation in general education activities with typical peers.

The Learning Support Teacher serves as a resource for students with significant cognitive and/or pervasive developmental disabilities. The Learning Support Teacher will utilize all resources available to establish a cooperative relationship with parents, staff members and administrators to support each student's opportunity to learn and grow in educational and life experiences. The position of Learning Support Teacher shall include active participation in the school's operation to support a positive learning environment in the school building.

This position reports to and is evaluated annually by the Director or Special Services and the Building Principal and/or his/her designee.

The requirements for this position are a minimum of a bachelor's degree and appropriate Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) certification and qualifications prescribed by law, to include No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

The Learning Support Teacher will demonstrate proficiency with the Derry Area School District curriculum, Benchmarks, PA Standards, and appropriate assessments. He/She will strengthen his/her abilities by reviewing innovative programs supported by best practice and research. The Learning Support Teacher must be able to articulate the school and district goals regarding the philosophical, historical, and legal foundations special education program to staff, students, parents and community members.

He/She must possess the knowledge, pedagogical abilities and attitudes necessary to be a successful scholar, decision maker and agent for curriculum enhancement and change. The Learning Support Teacher must be aware of and comfortable using computer and technological applications as educational tools, to include utilizing E-mail, Google products, Microsoft Office, spreadsheet and curriculum based software. Additionally, the Learning Support Teacher must understand how students differ in their approaches to learning;

while creating instructional opportunities that are adapted to diverse learners.

1. Teaches curriculum and incorporates language skills, writing skills and critical learning procedures, utilizing the curriculum planning guide adopted by the Board of Directors.

2. Instructs students in basic subject matter as specified in state laws, regulations and District policies.

3. Develops clear and appropriate lesson plans and identifies instructional materials on a weekly basis (minimum).

4. Selects, designs and organizes objectives, strategies and materials for teaching and incorporates research findings in the instructional program.

5. Provides individualized and small group instruction (as necessary) to adapt the curriculum to the needs of each pupil. He/she will have the ability to teach at various levels of instruction, including advanced placement courses. Determines the appropriate pace for instruction related to students' abilities/disabilities and explains material and subject content to students and parents. Differentiates instruction for students based upon need and works with students and other teachers in inclusive settings.

6. Establishes and maintains standards of behavior in the classroom and throughout the school to achieve a positive and functional learning atmosphere for students.

7. Evaluates students' academic and social growth, keeps appropriate records, prepares student progress reports, and provides accurate and constructive feedback to students and parents (as necessary).

8. Uses data to improve the learning and instruction process.

9. Cooperates with other professional staff members to identify student needs and develop assessments to solve health, attitude and learning problems.

10. Creates an effective learning environment.

11. Participates in the selection of books, textbooks, and other instructional materials.

12. Supervises students in out-of-classroom activities during the assigned work day.

13. Administers group standardized tests in accordance with District regulations.

14. Participates in curriculum development programs.

15. Participates in faculty committees, meetings and other faculty sponsored programs supporting the educational program.

16. Maintains professional competence through District sponsored in-service programs and approved professional development activities.

17. Demonstrates regular and timely attendance.

18. Is able to talk or hear, as well as speak and write in a clear,…