Teacher - Special Education Day Program - Autism

General Description

The Autism Day Program is designed for students who need more intensive autism supports and services than provided by their home school or catchment autism program. Students may have communication and behavioral deficits requiring intensive strategies to improve overall progress. Teachers will be trained in the STAR method, an Applied Behavioral Analysis program utilizing discrete trial, pivotal response and picture exchange communication methods.

Each classroom uses Teachtown, a computer program addressing academic needs. Teachers must be adept in organizing and implementing the STAR strategies and other best practices for students with autism in a center-based approach.

• Plan, deliver and evaluate instruction based upon specific standards and objectives established by Chesterfield County Public Schools and as indicated in the student's Individualized Educational Program (IEP).
• Complete required training and perform best practices in providing consistency through autism classrooms in the school division.
• Apply knowledge of curriculum and specialized instructional strategies to improve student performance with regard to standard-based assessments.
• Perform instruction in compliance with instructional program guidelines and legal requirements of IDEA and Federal regulations.
• Assess student learning on an ongoing basis and alter instruction to meet group and individual needs.
• Consult with teachers, administrators, related services providers and instructional/health specialists to determine individual student eligibility and classroom placement and to evaluate student progress.
• Document and evaluate student progress. Communicate progress frequently, thoroughly and effectively with parents through multiple channels as needed.
• Provide supervision and work direction to instructional assistants.
• Maintain order within the classroom in accordance with division guidelines regarding student behavior management.
• Supervise students during non‑classroom time (lunch, fire drills, etc.).
• Write effective, instructionally sound standards‑based Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) attuned to the individual needs of students with autism in compliance with division procedures and VDOE regulations.
• Demonstrate commitment to improving professional competence.
• Perform other duties as required.

Utilizes a personal computer, general office equipment and various assistive technology devices.

Teachers, instructional assistants, building administrators and parents. Coordinates with other school and community resources in delivery of services.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to handle or feel objects, manipulate or handle controls, objects and other materials; reach with hands and arms, talk and hear. The employee is required to stand, walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop and kneel. May be required to use verbal, non‑verbal and physical crisis prevention/intervention. May be required to lift up to 25 pounds and assist students with toileting and personal hygiene issues.

Work is performed in a public school. The noise level in the work environment is moderate.

Working knowledge of the concepts, principles and methodologies of instruction, learning theory and teaching methodologies for special education students and specific to students with autism and behavioral, social and communication strategies for individuals with autism. Demonstrated ability to identify students appropriate for special education programs; develop instructional goals for students within special education programs; design and deliver instruction and assess student learning;

develop IEPs through online systems and generate and access data through online sources and the student record. Demonstrated ability in decision making, problem analysis, conflict resolution, interpersonal relationships and planning. Requires handling of sensitive information and/or dealing tactfully with others. Requires knowledge of the characteristics of Asperger Syndrome and high functioning autism and…