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Special Education Preschool Teacher

Position Overview

The Preschool Teacher /Intervention Specialist (IS) provides specially designed instruction to preschool-aged children who may be blind or have low vision in an integrated classroom setting that aligns with each student’s Individual Education Plan goals and objectives. Works collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including occupational therapists, speech therapist, physical therapist, COMS, and teacher assistants, to deliver high-quality, individualized education services. Develops plans and maintains ongoing documentation of implementing the plan, monitoring students’ progress and their assessments. 

Responsibilities:

Instructional Duties:

  • Maintains a positive learning environment. Facilitates student learning activities that encourage collaboration and positive peer relationships.
  • Prepares the classroom or designated area for instruction, including accommodations in the classroom and outdoor learning spaces.
  • Develops and Implements lesson plans using the Creative Curriculum to execute current program goals.
  • Designs and implements individualized lesson accommodations that address the unique needs of preschool children with vision impairments and other conditions.
  • Utilizes evidence and research-based teaching methods and resources to support the teaching/learning process of all children, including those with visual impairment and other disabilities.
  • Follows prescribed medical plans and/or assists students with personal hygiene care as trained by licensed health care professional (toileting, feeding etc.). 
  • Completes daily case notes describing students’ activities, services and progress.
  • Along with the Manager of Preschool Services, develops a yearly calendar for preschool activities.

Collaboration:

  • Works closely with the Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) to integrate visual impairment strategies into the classroom.
  • Coordinates with Occupational Therapists (OT and OTA), Physical Therapists (PT), Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP), and Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS) to support the holistic development of students.
  • Participates in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss and plan for the needs of students.
  • Maintains communication and manages Teacher Assistants (TAs), educating them regarding:
    • Strategies and technology used in the classroom
    • Nature of students' vision diagnoses and other disabilities
    • Rationale for daily instruction
  • Organizes and communicates ongoing tasks for TAs, ensuring they are trained in the use of necessary technology. 
  • Conducts annual performance evaluation for TAs.
  • Develops and maintains effective relationships with all stakeholders, including parents, other team members, and special education personnel, focusing on exceeding customer expectations of the services provided.
  • Coordinates the scheduling of routine or as-needed meetings with parents, team members, and others, participating as appropriate to ensure that communications are provided to the parents and other involved personnel about programming goals, classroom activities, progress, strategies used, and specific concerns are accurate and consistent with the team’s subjective and objective findings.

Assessment and Progress Monitoring:

  • Conducts regular assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instructional strategies as needed.
  • Completes all required documentation regarding ongoing and formal assessments, data collection, progress notes, and prepares reports and presentations when needed.
  • Performs developmental screening (ASQ and ASQ/SE) to assess each child's developmental level. Assists in preparing written reports. Informs the Manager of Preschool and appropriate staff of concerns related to students in the classroom.
  • Writes comprehensive quarterly progress that is reported to parents and school districts.
  • Maintains accurate and detailed records of student performance and progress.

IEP Development and Implementation:

  • In collaboration with the multidisciplinary team develops, reviews, and updates Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students.
  • Ensures that IEP goals are aligned with the needs of students with vision impairments and are achievable within the given timeframe.
  • Implements IEP accommodations and modifications in the classroom.
  • Completes Intervention IEP required minutes with students in a classroom or 1:1 setting.