Science Teacher

Essential Responsibilities: The Lead Teacher plays a critical role in delivering high-quality, individualized instruction to students with autism and related learning needs. This position requires a compassionate, dedicated, and highly organized educator who can create a structured yet nurturing learning environment. The Lead Teacher is responsible for designing and implementing lesson plans that align with the school curriculum and individual student goals, managing classroom support staff, and collaborating with families and multidisciplinary teams to promote student success across academic, social-emotional, and life skills domains. With support from AIA’s administration and instructional coaching team, Pathway 1 lead teachers will design and create high-quality, standards-aligned lessons and assessments within their subject area(s), thereby supporting students’ acquisition of a standard high school diploma, meeting the requirements outlined by the Florida Department of Education.

Instruction & Curriculum Implementation
• Utilize instructional materials created by AIA including the AIA ladder system, curriculum maps, and backwards planning structure to effectively differentiate daily lessons tied to Florida Standards.
• Prepare lesson plans aligned with approved curriculum and submit in accordance with school policy.
• Instruct with and differentiate from AIA selected curriculum resources in daily lessons to meet students’ unique needs.
• Plan for and implement small group instruction weekly that accommodates diverse learning styles and support individual goal plans (IGPs).
• Incorporate hands-on, visual, and sensory-friendly learning activities as appropriate for students with autism.
• Attend bi-weekly to monthly meetings with coaches and administration to evaluate instructional impact and adjust instruction, as needed.
• Maintain substitute lesson plans and ensure classroom readiness in case of absence.

Student Support & Data-Driven Practice
• Review and implement all accommodations, modifications, and supports to ensure student success.
• Regularly assess, track, and document student progress toward academic, behavioral, and social-emotional goals.
• Communicate effectively with parents/guardians regarding student progress, providing timely updates and engaging in problem-solving conversations.
• Collaborate closely with therapy teams (e.g., Speech, OT, ABA) to align instructional practices with therapeutic recommendations.

Classroom Leadership & Collaboration
• Lead and supervise classroom support staff, including Support Teachers and behavior therapists, ensuring clarity of roles and responsibilities.
• Facilitate regular classroom team meetings to align on student goals, interventions, and classroom management strategies.
• Create a positive, structured classroom environment that promotes safety, respect, and student engagement.
• Implement proactive behavior management strategies aligned with school policies and seek administrative guidance when needed.
 

Professionalism & Continuous Improvement
• Demonstrate a growth mindset by actively participating in professional development and applying new learning to instructional practice.
• Attend and contribute to staff meetings, training sessions, and school events.
• Maintain accurate and complete records in accordance with school and regulatory requirements.
• Schedule and conduct parent-teacher conferences at least twice annually or as needed.
• Stay current on best practices in autism education, classroom technology, and instructional strategies.