Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
POSITION SUMMARY: The Early Childhood Special Education Teacher is responsible for assessments, program development, case management, and implementation of special education services for preschool children with developmental disabilities. Responsibilities may also involve providing consultation to parents, staff, and external agencies as necessary. Travel may be required to effectively support the assigned caseload.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: To perform this position effectively, an individual must be capable of fulfilling each essential responsibility to an acceptable standard. The qualifications outlined below reflect the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required for this role. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to support individuals with disabilities in performing the essential functions.
- Deliver targeted group and individual specialized instruction to children in various environments, including classrooms, private childcare centers, preschools, and family homes.
- Ensure adherence to procedural safeguards and provide advocacy information to families whose children are screened, evaluated, or receiving services.
- Collaborate with families and service providers to develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Participate in IEP meetings and complete all required documentation.
- Provide developmentally appropriate instruction tailored to each child’s unique needs.
- Maintain accurate, comprehensive records and prepare reports on students and activities to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Support data collection efforts to inform appropriate classroom interventions.
- Work collaboratively with other special service providers to integrate support services.
- Facilitate inclusive classroom experiences in partnership with general early childhood educators.
- Communicate regularly with team members to keep families informed about student progress and upcoming events; address inquiries and conduct family conferences as needed.
- Participate in transition planning for children moving on to kindergarten or alternative programs.
- Attend staff and multidisciplinary team meetings as required.
- Perform additional related duties as assigned.
REQUIRED EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION and EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree with certification in Early Childhood Special Education issued by the Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board (PTSB). Applicants that are eligible for an Exception Authorization through PTSB or are enrolled or willing to enroll in an ECSE endorsement program will also be considered.
- One year of experience working with children with developmental disabilities is preferred.
- Infant/Child CPR and First Aid certification required or must be obtained within 3 months of hire.
- Must successfully complete abuse/neglect Central Registry check, sex offender and criminal background screening, and fingerprinting.
- TB risk assessment to be completed within 30 days of hire.
- Valid driver’s license, safe driving record, and liability insurance required if position involves travel.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Oral and written communication skills for effective interaction with children and adults.
- Capability to stay calm and professional in environments with frequent interruptions.
- Capacity to remain alert, adaptable, and professional at all times.
- Ability to function as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Ability to provide behavior supports including de-escalation and physical assistance, and follow health care procedures that could include feeding, personal care, etc.
- Skill in multitasking and managing tasks effectively to meet deadlines.
- Competence in communicating, interacting, and working cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Capacity to perform duties with minimal direct supervision.
- Knowledge of IDEA, Part B and Part C services, and early intervention practices.
- Awareness of workplace safety, adherence to safety protocols, practice of safe work habits, appropriate use of safety equipment, and reporting of unsafe conditions to supervisors.
- Commitment to maintaining the confidentiality of program and client information.
- Adherence to organization policies, standards, and training.
- Knowledge of special education technology software and tools.
PHYSICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS: The following physical, environmental, and mental requirements are necessary to perform this job's essential duties. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.
- Work is primarily performed indoors, with some outdoor duties.
- Duties may require various physical positions including stooping, kneeling, crouching, grasping, holding, reaching, sitting, and moving between locations.
- Must be able to lift children or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds independently and over 50 pounds with assistance.
- The environment may involve moderate to high noise levels from office equipment, adults, and children.
- Position requires managing moderate to high levels of mental and emotional demands.
- Able to travel to sites, meetings, and trainings.
- Willing to drive in adverse weather conditions..
REPORTING RELATIONSHIP & DIRECTION/GUIDANCE:
- Reports to: Assistant Director of Special Education and general direction from the Executive Director.
- Supervises children in class, common areas, and playground.