Developmental Adaptive Physical Education (DAPE) Teacher - .4 FTE

Developmental Adaptive Physical Education Teacher

The Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) Teacher is responsible for designing and implementing specialized physical education instruction for students with disabilities. This role ensures that all students have access to a high-quality physical education program tailored to their individual needs, abilities, and goals. The DAPE teacher collaborates with special education staff, general education teachers, and other service providers to support students in achieving their physical and motor development objectives.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing individualized physical education programs for students with disabilities in compliance with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and federal/state regulations.
• Assessing students' motor skills, physical abilities, and adaptive needs to determine appropriate instruction and modifications and for special education evaluations.
• Delivering engaging, developmentally appropriate instruction in various physical activities, including motor skills development, fitness, sports, and recreational activities.
• Modifying curriculum, equipment, and instructional strategies to ensure accessibility and success for students with diverse needs.
• Collaborating with special education teachers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and other related service providers to align instruction with students' overall educational goals.
• Providing direct and consultative services to support students in both adapted and inclusive physical education settings.
• Monitoring and documenting student progress, adjusting instruction as needed to meet individual goals.
• Communicating regularly with parents, caregivers, and school staff regarding student progress, goals, and strategies for success.
• Ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations regarding special education and adapted physical education services.
• Advocating for inclusive practices and the participation of students with disabilities in school and community physical activities.
• Supporting with building unified programming in the district.
• Providing professional development and training to general physical education teachers and paraprofessionals on adaptive strategies and best practices.
• Maintaining accurate records, reports, and documentation as required by school and district policies.
• Adhering to staff and program guidelines and district procedures and policies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education/experience requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education or related field.
• Minnesota licensure or certification in Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE); or Authorization for the district to complete an Out of Field Permission (OFP) request; or Ability to meet the Tier 1 or Tier 2 PELSB license guidelines.
• Valid Minnesota Teaching License.

Essential knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the work include:

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and presentation skills.
• Strong skills in differentiated instruction.
• Skills in behavior management and classroom management.
• Skills in data-driven decision making.
• Skills in technology integration.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and cooperatively with administrators, teachers, staff, and students.
• Ability to meet the instructional needs of a diverse group of students.
• Ability to promote strong student learning outcomes.
• Ability to develop and maintain positive professional relationships.
• Ability to analyze, prioritize, and implement plans in a timely and professional manner.
• Commitment to professional development and continuous growth.
• Demonstrated prompt, regular, and reliable attendance.

Benefits at South St. Paul Public Schools include:

• Health Partners coverage for medical and dental.
• 403(b) retirement with district match.
• TRA (Teacher Retirement Association) benefits.
• Flexible spending account.
• Paid time off and leave benefits.
• Salary placement is based on education and experience as indicated in Teachers' Collectively Bargained Agreement.
• Complete benefits details available through Human Resources. Benefits vary by position and contract.