November 2015 - Special Educator e-Journal

Table of Contents

  • Acknowledgements

  • Download a PDF or XPS Version of This Issue


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Latest Employment Opportunities Posted on NASET

K-2 Self Contained Span/Eng Spec Ed Teacher

Chicago, IL

Job Category: Bilingual Special Education Teacher

 

K-2 Bilingual Special Education Teacher

The Academy for Global Citizenship seeks an exemplary special education teacher for the 2015-2016 school year. Teachers are responsible for helping all of our children learn, classroom management, participating in professional development, providing feedback to others, taking ownership in the development and improvements of Individual Educational Plan (IEP), consulting general education teachers on special needs, and communicating to staff and parents regarding student performance. This position involves teaching students in a self-contained K-2 classroom. Special education teachers report to the Principal.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Teaching: provides students with special needs with various modes of learning to accommodate their different learning styles, by using inquiry, real-life experiences, current events, information technology, the dramatic arts and other lively sources of knowledge.
  • Instructional Strategies: responsible for using many different types of instructional strategies including teaching through inquiry, differentiating instruction (different learning styles and language backgrounds) and data-driven instruction.
  • Technology Integration: incorporates technology across all disciplines as much as possible, where appropriate.
  • Professional Development: participates in coaching cycle, stays abreast of latest techniques and demonstrates an eagerness to learn new skills and share experiences with others.
  • Curriculum Development: works closely with coach, other teachers to ensure taught curriculum is aligned with Common Core Learning Standards, the IB PYP/MYP, and is achieving the goals of the school.
  • IEPs: designs and writes the IEP or 504 plans of students in his/her caseload based on evidence-based data and in regards to Spec. Ed law.
  • Performance Assessment: sets high and measurable goals for student achievement and evaluates student progress in the instructional program.
  • Community: encourages the use of community resources, cooperates with families in welcoming them to our community, and maintains solid communication with all community members.

Education Requirements:

  • Bachelor Degree in Special Education
  • Master's Degree in Special Education (ideal)
  • State of Illinois Teaching Certificate (LBS1 and/or Type 03 and/or 10)
  • Endorsement or extensive experience in ELL instruction (ideal)

Application:

To submit an online application, please visit:
http://www.applitrack.com/agcchicago/onlineapp/

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender, age national origin, or disability.

Requirements:

  • 5+ years experience as an educator (ideal)
  • Bilingual and biliterate (English/Spanish)
  • Familiarity with IB program (ideal)
  • Familiarity with various educational models: Inquiry-based teaching and Responsive Classroom
  • Believer in culturally relevant teaching
  • Strong leadership skills and personal drive
  • Ability to maintain a safe, orderly environment
  • Strong communication skills
  • Proven ability to play a lead role in their grade level
  • Experience accommodating students with IEPs within the classroom

Benefits:

Competitive salary based on experience and level of education. Full benefits, free breakfast and lunch, wellness fund, and professional development funds offered.

Contact:

Jennifer Moore
773-582-1100
jmoore@agcchicago.org
agcchicago.org

Application:

To submit an online application, please visit:
http://www.applitrack.com/agcchicago/onlineapp/

 

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Special Education Teacher

Concord, CA

Job Category: Special Education Teacher

Are you a Special Education Teacher or a Resource Specialist? Or even a Speech-Language Pathologist? Progressus Therapy has a position for you in the Concord area of CA. Join a team of professionals working towards positive outcomes for students. Special Education Teachers and Resource Specialists play in integral part in the lives of children. We need your help immediately. Call Progressus today at 800-239-7979 to speak to a Career Services Manager.

Requirements:

  • Valid California Credential for Resource Specialist, CLAD/ELA (or equivalent)
  • Teaching experience, including both regular and special education
  • Keen understanding of general special education testing concepts and methods
  • Able to provide behavioral analysis and positive intervention skills
  • Able to diagnose and provide remediation of various types of learning disabilities
  • Able to provide consultation, resource information and materials regarding students with exceptional needs to parents
  • Collaborative minded professional with strong oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to work and build strong relationships with parents, teachers and school administrators
  • Mild/moderate endorsement

Benefits

  • Competitive compensation with flexible pay options
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Coverage
  • Flexible Spending Plan for medical and dependent coverage
  • Professional Liability Coverage
  • Licensure reimbursement
  • 401(k) Retirement Saving Plan with a discretionary company match
  • Relocation assistance
  • Many More!

Contact:

Whitney Lohr
Careers Service Manager
813 549 5813
Whitney.Lohr@ProgressusTherapy.com

www.ProgressusTherapy.com

 

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Special Education Teacher

Philly, PA

Job Category: Special Education Teacher

Description:

Are you a Special Education Teacher or a Resource Specialist? Progressus Therapy has a position for you in the Philly area of PA. Join a team of professionals working towards positive outcomes for students. Special Education Teachers and Resource Specialists play in integral part in the lives of children. We need your help immediately. Call Progressus today at 800-239-7979 to speak to a Career Services Manager.

Ask for Whitney Lohr, direct line - 813 549 5813

Requirements:

  • Valid California Credential for Resource Specialist, CLAD/ELA (or equivalent)
  • Teaching experience, including both regular and special education
  • Keen understanding of general special education testing concepts and methods
  • Able to provide behavioral analysis and positive intervention skills
  • Able to diagnose and provide remediation of various types of learning disabilities
  • Able to provide consultation, resource information and materials regarding students with exceptional needs to parents
  • Collaborative minded professional with strong oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to work and build strong relationships with parents, teachers and school administrators
  • Mild/moderate endorsement

Benefits

  • Competitive compensation with flexible pay options
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Coverage
  • Flexible Spending Plan for medical and dependent coverage
  • Professional Liability Coverage
  • Licensure reimbursement
  • 401(k) Retirement Saving Plan with a discretionary company match
  • Relocation assistance
  • Many More!

Contact:

Whitney Lohr
Careers Service Manager
813 549 5813
Whitney.Lohr@ProgressusTherapy.com

www.ProgressusTherapy.com

 

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CHIEF OF PUPIL SERVICES

Norwalk, CT

Job Category: Administration

 

Norwalk Public Schools

On behalf of Norwalk Public Schools, the State Education Resource Center (SERC) is conducting a national level search for a full-time (12-month) position as the Chief of Pupil Services at Norwalk Public Schools.  The ideal candidate will possess a plethora of experience working in a public school district, an administrative position and in special education or a related position.  The highly qualified candidate can demonstrate:

  • Excellent leadership skills;
  • Successful engagement with boards of education, administrators, staff, families, and the community;
  • Effective strategic planning for improving and maintaining high academic performance and creating academic equity for students with disabilities; and
  • Development and implementation of systemic policies, practices, and structures to provide high quality supports and services for special education and related services.

All qualified applicants, including candidates of color, culturally, and linguistically diverse backgrounds and candidates with disabilities, are encouraged to apply.  Application review will begin on or about November 6, 2015; however, this position will remain open until filled.

General Summary

The Chief of Pupil Services will provide leadership and oversight for special education and pupil personnel services throughout the district.  Additionally, he or she will support policy development designed to provide consistency and compliance with all programs, services, resource distribution, processing and the assignment of special education and related services staff.

Reports To

Superintendent of Norwalk Public Schools

Directly Supervises and Evaluates:

  • District level special education staff: Special Education Supervisors and Coordinators
  • School Health Services, through Director of Nursing
  • Inclusive Pre School Center, through Head Teacher
  • Gifted Education

Collaboratively Supervises and Evaluates

  • Other administrators in the supervision of personnel related to special education and related services

Essential Job Functions:

Applicants must have the ability to:

  • Effectively lead the public school district, families, and the community in improving educational outcomes for students with disabilities;
  • Oversee the systemic implementation of policies and procedures for special education and pupil personnel supports and services, including the implementation of regulatory compliance measures;
  • Manage the overall resources and budget analysis/oversight responsibilities for implementation of supports and services for students with disabilities; and
  • Effectively communicate and collaborate with racially and culturally diverse community members, agencies, organizations, institutions, families, and educators to provide a cohesive and comprehensive system of support for students with disabilities.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Chief of Pupil Services is able to:

  • Develop, manage, evaluate, and improve the systemic implementation of policies and procedures regarding special education and related services;
  • Ensure regulatory compliance related to disability and special education laws and regulations;
  • Support administrators and staff in the implementation of supports and services for students, including special education, related services, and the gifted and talented;
  • Review, analyze and evaluate existing programs, including student performance data, to lead strategic planning and implementation designed to achieve greater student success;
  • Oversee the maintenance of student records in accordance with federal, state, and local requirements to include the continuum of settings and an array of tiered instructional services;
  • Provide direction for child find, intervention supports, the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the 504 process;
  • Develop and lead the strategic planning for improved academic and life outcomes for students with disabilities;
  • Develop, support, and manage, in collaboration with the Superintendent, other administrators, and the Norwalk Board of Education the annual budgeting and planning process for special education and related services;
  • Manage the development and implementation of standard operating procedures and guidelines for practice;
  • Manage data collection, analysis, and utilization of special education and student services;
  • Cultivate effective partnerships with racially, culturally, and linguistically diverse families and educators; and
  • Develop and provide professional development for special education teachers, Central Office staff and, in some case, parents.

Education and Experience

  • Advanced graduate degree in special education or related services and educational leadership is required, a doctorate is preferred;
  • Certification as an Administrator or Supervisor, Provisional or Professional Certification is preferred;
  • Certification in special education or related services;
  • At least five (5) years of building level and/or central office administrative experience, to include direct staff supervision and program evaluation experience; and
  • At least ten (10) years of classroom experience in special education or related services.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of:

  • State and federal laws, statutes, and regulations pertaining to education overall education broad, special education, and pupil personnel services;
  • Staff evaluation and union contracts;
  • Strategic planning, policy development, and systems change;
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), IEPs, 504 processes, and compliance measures;
  • Effective collaboration with a Board of Education;
  • Effective school, family, community partnerships; and
  • Equitable mindset and practices, including race, English learners, and differences in abilities.

Skill in:

  • Administrating, organizing and managing systems for delivery of supports and services for students with disabilities;
  • Effective oral and written communication;
  • Developing and implementing strategic planning, policies, and practices for improved student outcomes; and
  • Partnering with diverse families, community members, and educators.

Ability to:

  • Work with and engage educators, community members, and families from culturally and racially diverse backgrounds;
  • Collaboratively lead and engage educators and families toward building consensus while being decisive and inclusive;
  • Foster a positive professional climate of mutual trust and respect among families, educators, and the community;
  • Place the interests of students and their families first and foremost;
  • Build passion about improvement for student learning performance; and
  • Recognize the value in providing professional learning opportunities to advance educators’ instructional preparedness for working with all students.

Term of Employment

Twelve-month year.

Evaluation

Performance to be evaluated by the Superintendent based on established actionable goals and outlined criteria.

Salary Range

$162,066 to $175,000
*Salary set annually pending Board approval

A thorough, updated resume and at least three current professional references must be submitted with the application package in order to be considered. Apply online at:www.ctserc.org (click on the "Employment” tab).

Norwalk is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and strongly encourages the application of individuals from racially, culturally, and linguistically diverse backgrounds and from persons with disabilities.

 

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1-to-1 Assistant Educator for Autistic Student

Rome, Italy

Job Category: Special Education Aide

Description:

Special needs teacher to work as one-to-one assistant with a student in an international school setting in Rome, Italy.

ROLES AND EXPECTATIONS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

  • Support individual student in the classroom setting and in a one-to-one setting, in collaboration with the classroom teacher
  • Create lessons and activities to promote academic, social skills and life skills development
  • Supervise student's independent work, facilitating and monitoring small groups in the classroom if needed or providing one to one support when needed.
  • Work collaboratively as a team member within the Learning Support Department
  • Record the progress of the individual student and refer this information to the case manager and the Learning Support Team
  • Respect the confidentiality of information regarding students and their families
  • Create and follow a sensory diet as needed
  • Assist student in transitioning from activity to activity throughout the school day

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree is required. Master degree is preferred.
  • State certification is preferred but not required.
  • At least two years of teaching or one-on-one aide experience required.
  • ABA-certified and Autism specialist preferred.

Benefits:

  • Unique and rewarding employment opportunity overseas.
  • Competitive compensation package for the location.
  • Opportunity to help a special girl reach her potential while living overseas.

Contact:

For more information or to state your interest, email jcshackworth@gmail.com.

Visit www.marymountrome.org for more information about the school setting.

 

 

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Special Education Coordinator

Portsmouth, VA

Job Category: Special Education Coordinator

Description:

  • Coordinates and implements pupil personnel services and programs; planning, organizing and implementing programs, activities, and curriculum for special education students;
  • Plans, organizes and supervises implementing programs, activities, curriculum for special students; coordinating and implementing pupil personnel services and programs.
  • Organizes and supervises the development and implementation of programs, services, activities and curriculum for special students;
  • Plans, organizes and supervises pupil personnel services and programs;
  • Confers with parents regarding inquiries and concerns;
  • Supervises staff to ensure compliance with all special education regulations;
  • Ensures the best utilization of available resources to maximize student achievement at all schools and centers in the Division;
  • Ensures through the supervisors, that every school is accredited or that there is, on file, an approved plan to achieve accreditation;
  • Collaborates and consults with the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction to coordinate the total instructional program;
  • Consults with and responds to Principals regarding special education and pupil personnel concerns on legal and regulatory issues, staffing, instructional issues, discipline, zone and compliance issues and parents' concerns;
  • Monitors compliance with State and Federal regulations;
  • Provides oversight of any and all division due process hearings;
  • Develops, monitors and administers the special education and pupil personnel budgets;
  • Prepares required State and Federal reports;
  • Develops and recommends policies and procedures relating to special education and pupil personnel issues;
  • Chairs local eligibility committee and serves on local advisory committee for handicapped children;
  • Attends staff, School Board, community group and related meetings;
  • Performs related tasks as required.

Requirements:

  • Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in education supplemented by a Masters degree and extensive increasingly responsible experience in special education and school-based administration.
  • Experience as a central office administrator is preferred, but not required.
  • Possession of or ability to acquire certification in School Administration and Special Education.
  • Possession of an appropriate driver's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Contact:

Please submit an online application including all credentials via Portsmouth Public Schools website:

https://ats3.searchsoft.net/ats/app_login?COMPANY_ID=00016975

 

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Special Education Teacher (ES, MS, HS)

Multiple Locations (Brooklyn, Rochester, Troy, NY; Newark, NJ)

Job Category: Teacher

Description:

The Special Education Coordinator or Teacher is passionate about supporting the students who are at-risk for academic underperformance due to emotional and/or physical challenges so that they can succeed in the school's rigorous academic program. The Special Education Coordinator or Teacher holds primary responsibility for providing academic, emotional, and physical services for students who require additional support to thrive within the school's core academic program.

Responsibilities:

  • Demonstrate a relentless drive to improve the minds, characters & lives of students both in and out of school.
  • Show unwavering commitment to urban youth achieving greatness.
  • Create a positive, structured learning environment to ensure that students observe the school's core values, high expectations, and strict code of conduct.
  • Implement curricula and activities to meet academic standards.
  • Design and implement assessments that measure progress towards academic standards.
  • Use assessment data to refine curriculum and inform instructional practices.
  • Participate in the collaborative curriculum development process.
  • Provide consistent rewards and/or consequences for student behavior to ensure that students observe the school's core values, high expectations, and strict code of conduct.
  • Be accountable for students' mastery of academic standards.
  • Share responsibility for grade-level and school-wide activities.
  • Exhibit resilience to persevere and turn challenges into opportunities.
  • Focus constantly on student learning, thinking critically and strategically to respond to student learning needs.
  • Communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues.
  • Engage families in their children's education.
  • Commit to continual professional growth, participating actively in department meetings, faculty meetings, and other meetings.
  • Participate in an annual three-week staff orientation and training.
  • Mentor and engage another Teacher in instructional practice and professional development.
  • Include a Teacher in daily classroom activities to help students meet academic standards.

Requirements:

  • Drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of the classroom.
  • Proven track-record of high achievement in the classroom.
  • Mastery of and enthusiasm for academic subjects.
  • Evidence of self-motivation and willingness to be a team player.
  • Bachelor's degree is required; Master's degree is preferred.
  • Minimum of two years teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting.
  • Valid State Certification is helpful but not required.
  • Belief in and alignment with Uncommon's core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable.

Benefits:

We offer a competitive compensation package, including a salary significantly above the district scale and comprehensive health benefits. Aside from extensive professional development, all our teachers are equipped with a laptop computer, email, high-speed internet access, library budget, and all necessary instructional supplies

Contact:

To apply, please visit our website: http://www.uncommonschools.org/careers

If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@uncommonschools.org with the title SPED Teacher Position.

 

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Assistant Professor - Moderate Disabilities (SPED)

Lowell, Massachusetts

Job Category: Full Time

University of Massachusetts Lowell

The Graduate School of Education seeks a collaborative and energetic colleague to assume a tenure track position in the field of special education. Currently, the GSE offers a limited number of courses at the master's level for those seeking initial license as a teacher of students with moderate disabilities; however, we are developing a Bachelor of Arts in Education degree with an option in special education.

The newly appointed faculty member will play a lead role in delivering the undergraduate degree and advising students, as well as teaching master's level courses.

The University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) is in the city of Lowell which has a population of approximately 110,000. Lowell was the first planned industrial city in the USA and is the home of the Lowell National Historical Park. Lowell is 30 minutes north of Boston. The university serves a diverse population of 17,000 students in over 120 degree programs. UML is a nationally ranked public university which, in the past 5 years, has seen tremendous growth in its undergraduate and graduate populations, the number of faculty, and the facilities available for teaching and research. The Graduate School of Education is one of six colleges at the university and serves approximately 450 graduate students and a growing body of undergraduates enrolled in two education minors.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • An earned doctorate in education (candidates anticipating graduation during fall 2015 or spring 2016 are also encouraged to apply)
  • The ability to work effectively with diverse groups
  • At least 5 years of K-12 teaching experience or administration in special education
  • A developing record of research through presentations and publications commensurate with expectations for an assistant professor position

Other Considerations:

  • Teaching experience at the undergraduate or graduate level
  • Online teaching experience
  • The ability to work effectively with colleagues and diverse groups
  • A commitment to students, research and program development

To apply, please submit the following documents:

  • Cover Letter: Should include your teaching philosophy and future direction of your research.
    • Curriculum Vitae
    • Other Document 1: Please include/attach proof of a current or past K-12 SPED teacher or administrator license.
    • Other Document 2: Please include a list of all undergraduate and graduate courses in special education that you have taken during your academic career.
    • Sample of Scholarly Work/Publication: The sample of scholarly work should be a journal article or a paper presented at regional or national conference.

Review of applications will begin on 10/08 and will continue until the position is filled. However, the position may close when an adequate number of qualified applications is received.

The University of Massachusetts Lowell is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action, Title IX employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age over 40, protected veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, marital status, or other protected class.

 

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Head of School

San Rafael, CA

Job Category: Head of School

Description:

Star Academy is a non-profit, non-public school, located in San Rafael, CA, serving students with learning differences in grades 1-12. Star Academy is a calm, nurturing and stigma-free school whose therapeutic model seamlessly integrates classroom and specialist instruction. The high quality teachers create a community that acknowledges and accommodates varying needs of student and individualized instruction. Community involvement is encouraged. The result – confident kids.

At Star, students face mild to moderate challenges such as: dyslexia, executive functioning deficits, dyscalculia, auditory processing, dysgraphia, ADHD and Asperger's. Elementary, middle and high school students all benefit from Star's calm, nurturing, and supportive environment, which are conducive to learning. High school students earn their high school diploma or certificate of completion and prepare to transition to college and/or other pursuits.

The Head of School, in collaboration with the Director of Education (DOE) has responsibilities related to the hiring, retention, supervision, mentorship, and evaluation of faculty. They work collaboratively to ensure that the Star's mission and vision is followed.

Quick Facts About Star:

  • Star was founded in 1990
  • Currently 72 Students
  • Currently 20 Teachers and Assistant Teachers
  • Currently 22 Specialists (Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, Language and Math Specialists, and Wellness Specialists)
  • 7 Administrative Staff
  • Small Student/Faculty ratio
  • The next Head of School will:
    • Embody, manifest, and advocate the mission of the school.
    • Represent the school to all of its constituents including parents, students, alumni, business community, faculty, and staff as well as state and federal agencies, and local, state, regional, and national educational organizations and accrediting agencies.
    • Manage the day-to-day operations of the school.
    • Partner with the Board of Trustees and its Committees.
    • Act as liaison with other school districts for IEPs; represent and be an advocate for parents during the IEP process.
    • It is highly desired that the next Head of School will be:
      • Experienced as an administrator; administrative and teaching credential(s) desirable.
      • An accomplished educator experienced with an understanding of the impact and challenges of children with learning differences.
      • Well-versed with multisensory classroom curriculum and approaches to learning, differentiated teaching for different learning styles and multi-grade classrooms, utilizing technology as an instructional tool, occupational therapy services, speech and language services, and Social Thinking® curriculum.
      • Have a proven track record of successfully facilitating conferences meetings addressing Individualized Program (IPs) and Individualized Educational Program (IEPs).
      • Possess leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to help the school maintain and grow in its commitment to provide the best education for children who learn differently.
      • Strong leader who recognizes strength of team and effectively manages, collaborates, delegates and builds a community.
      • Excellent, responsive communicator and listener with consistent follow.

 

Contact:

Candidates interested in the position are asked to submit the following documents as a single Word document or PDF by October 15, 2015 to Judith Glickman (jglickman@educatorscollaborative.com):

1. EC Candidate Summary Form
2. Cover letter addressed to Star Academy Search Committee
3. Résumé
4. Personal statement of educational philosophy
5. List of five (5) references including name, contact information, relationship to candidate

Judith Glickman of Educators' Collaborative is eager to interview interested candidates: (415) 655-9974 or jglickman@educatorscollaborative.com.

 

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