Special Ed Classroom Teacher (Austism)

K-2 Autism Special Education Classroom TeacherReports ToSchool Principal and Director of Special ServicesPosition PurposeUnder the general supervision of the School Principal and Director of Special Services, the K-2 Autism Special Education Classroom Teacher provides specialized instruction and support to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder in a self-contained or specialized instructional setting. The teacher facilitates student success in academic, communication, behavioral, social-emotional, and daily living skills through implementation of district approved curriculum, individualized education programs (IEPs), evidence-based instructional practices, and structured learning environments designed to meet the unique needs of students with autism.The teacher creates a safe, supportive, and engaging classroom environment while collaborating with related service providers, families, and staff to ensure students reach their maximum educational potential.Essential FunctionsDevelops and implements individualized and small group instruction aligned with New Jersey Student Learning Standards, district curriculum, and student IEP goals.Provides specialized instruction in academic, behavioral, communication, social-emotional, adaptive, and functional life skills for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder.Creates and maintains a structured, predictable, and supportive classroom environment utilizing evidence-based practices and positive behavioral supports.Implements behavior intervention plans (BIPs), reinforcement systems, sensory supports, visual schedules, and other instructional strategies appropriate for students with autism.Conducts ongoing assessment of student performance and progress toward IEP goals and modifies instructional methods to meet individual student needs.Collaborates with speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, behaviorists, school psychologists, and child study team members to support student success.Develops lesson plans and instructional materials that support differentiated instruction and individualized learning.Maintains accurate and complete student records, including IEP documentation, progress monitoring data, attendance, grading, and required reports.Participates in IEP meetings, annual reviews, eligibility meetings, and other student planning conferences as required.Promotes communication and collaboration with parents and guardians regarding student progress, classroom expectations, and behavioral and academic growth.Utilizes assistive technology, augmentative communication systems, and instructional technology as appropriate to support student learning.Maintains classroom organization, safety, and compliance with district procedures and state regulations.Supervises students during instructional activities, transitions, lunch, arrival and dismissal, transportation, community-based activities, and other school functions as assigned.Supports inclusion opportunities and mainstreaming activities when appropriate.Administers district and state assessments in accordance with district testing procedures and accommodations outlined in student IEPs.Participates in faculty meetings, professional development activities, committees, and district initiatives.Continues professional growth through workshops, seminars, coursework, and current research related to special education and autism instruction.Additional DutiesPerforms other related duties as assigned by the Principal, Director of Special Services, and Superintendent or designee.Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.EquipmentUses standard office equipment such as computers, printers, copiers, telephones, and instructional technology equipment. Utilizes assistive technology devices and adaptive instructional materials as needed.Travel RequirementsTravels between district buildings and to professional meetings, trainings, and workshops as required.Knowledge, Skills And AbilitiesKnowledge of special education instructional practices, autism spectrum disorders, applied behavior strategies, and differentiated instruction.Knowledge of child development, communication disorders, sensory needs, and behavioral interventions for students with autism.Knowledge of New Jersey special education laws, regulations, IEP procedures, and compliance requirements.Ability to create structured learning environments and implement evidence-based instructional strategies for students with autism.Ability to collect, analyze, and utilize student performance and behavioral data to inform instruction and interventions.Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with students, parents, administrators, child study team members, and related service providers.Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all aspects of the position.Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with staff, students, and families.Ability to use instructional technology, data systems, and educational software applications.Ability to engage in reflective practice and professional growth.Physical and Mental Demands, Work HazardsWorks in a standard school and classroom environment. Position may require lifting, positioning, crisis intervention, physical prompting, and assisting students with mobility, behavioral, or personal care needs.Note: Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Job Duties for this position.Qualifications ProfileCertification/LicenseNew Jersey Teacher of Students with Disabilities Certification or Teacher of the Handicapped Certification required.New Jersey Elementary School Teacher Certification required.Autism specialization, ABA training, or related certifications preferred.Valid New Jersey teaching certification required.EducationBachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Special Education, Elementary Education, or related field required.Master's Degree in Special Education or related field preferred.ExperienceExperience working with elementary-aged students with Autism Spectrum Disorder preferred.Experience implementing behavioral supports, structured teaching, and evidence-based autism interventions preferred.Experience In Self-contained Or Specialized Instructional Settings Preferred.Salary Range$52,700 - $112,200 based on education and prior experience in accordance with the negotiated agreement.Terms of EmploymentTen-month position in accordance with the terms and conditions established by the Bogota Board of Education.FLSA StatusExempt