Teacher - Secondary - Special Education - Life Skills Long-Term Substitute

Certified Secondary Special Education Teacher
- Life Skills Support Long-Term Substitute

Downingtown Area School District is excited to announce an opening for a certified secondary special education teacher for the  school year. This position will be located at Lionville Middle School and is a long-term substitute opportunity beginning approx. 10/9/2026 and lasting through the end of the  school year.

The Life Skills Support Teacher provides specialized instruction and support in the areas of academic, functional and adaptive skills to students with moderate to significant cognitive impairments. They create and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to meet the unique needs of each student, focusing on their academic, social, emotional, daily living, and behavioral development. The Life Skills Support Teacher collaborates with parents, caregivers, and other professionals to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive learning environment.

At Downingtown Area School District we value our employees. We seek to hire new staff who:
Communicate openly to build relationships and trust Partner with team members to see the TEAM succeed Demonstrate a growth mindset and seek ongoing opportunities for growth Embrace and support a safe and inclusive environment Eagerly and enthusiastically support student learning Strive to be kind and reflective Focus on the solution and put people first Lead by example!

If you want to be part of our "Downingtown Proud" team - please apply! Help us with our mission to educate all students to meet the rigorous challenges of a global society.

Primary functions include the classroom instruction of students following district curriculum and procedures.

Qualifications:

Candidate must be a graduate of an accredited college or university and hold a proper Pennsylvania certification for the position. The employee in this position could be required as part of his or her duties to engage in activities that can be charged to a Medical Assistance or other state or federal healthcare program. Clearance as provider under such programs by both the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the federal government is therefore an essential qualification for this position.

Possesses a positive attitude toward the teaching profession, service to the district, and importance and purpose of the education program. Proficiency in use of technology for individual or group demonstration or communication. Must be able to flex and vary hours to accommodate needs of students, parents, and other teachers. Possesses effective interpersonal skills with the ability to interface diplomatically with teachers, administrators, parents, students, and outside organizations.

Exhibits excellent classroom management skills. Demonstrates effective communication skills to provide accurate information to others and to obtain, give, and follow directions. Demonstrates ability to provide good judgment, planning, and human relations skills, as well as be required to work under periods of stress due to the level of the position responsibility. Must successfully complete and maintain compliance with all federal and state background and criminal record check requirements.

Provides instruction and support to special education students in accordance with their individualized education program (IEP). Develops lesson plans and instructional materials to address students' individual needs. Works cooperatively with district staff, including regular education teachers, pupil services staff, and related service staff, and when appropriate, outside agencies to coordinate student's program and provide appropriate level of support. Coordinates services for students on caseload by being the case manager and preparing all essential documents and other documents, adhering to timelines.

Collects and effectively communicates data and provides ongoing progress monitoring for students on their caseload. Collects and documents ESY-Extended School Year data to determine eligibility. Provides this information to the Supervisor of Special Education. Participates actively as part of the Multidisciplinary team and facilitates IEP meetings.…