2026-2027 School Year - Special Education Teacher - Autism - West Seaford Elementary

About the Role

Special Education Teacher focused on students with autism at West Seaford Elementary School for the 2026-2027 school year.

Responsibilities

• Apply strategies and techniques to foster independence, self-reliance, and social skills.
• Deliver lesson plans, present learning materials, and conduct instructional exercises.
• Monitor student progress regarding individual educational plans and goals.
• Supervise individual students or small groups of students with autism in instructional activities.
• Use positive reinforcement strategies and other techniques to develop appropriate behavior.
• Utilize a variety of instructional materials and learning aids tailored to children with autism.
• Monitor students during classroom activities, recesses, and field trips.
• Operate and assist students in using instructional aids, media, and computer-assisted equipment.
• Maintain an orderly, safe, and positive learning environment.
• Assist students with basic personal care activities such as dressing, toileting (including catheterization), feeding, and grooming as needed.
• Use good judgment to assist injured or physically ill students and respond to medical emergencies.
• Assist students on and off the bus as needed.
• Administer a variety of tests and record results.
• Attend specialized training as required.
• Develop and adhere to Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs), outlining supports, accommodations, and goals.
• Meet with parents and staff regarding IEPs and make necessary adjustments throughout the year.
• Work with children who have mild to severe disabilities using specialized techniques.
• Perform other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and district administrators.

Autism-Specific Abilities

• Apply behavior management strategies and techniques specific to students with autism.
• Demonstrate an understanding, patient, and receptive attitude toward students of varied age groups.
• Quickly recognize and respond to emergencies related to student medical conditions.
• Assist students with basic personal care activities such as dressing or toileting as needed.
• Utilize a variety of instructional materials and procedures to enhance a positive educational environment.

Equipment and Travel

• Use standard office equipment such as personal computers, printers, copiers, fax machines, and telephones.
• Travel to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of current teaching methods, educational pedagogy, and differentiated instruction based on student learning styles.
• Knowledge of school curriculum and concepts.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, and formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network systems and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work effectively.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation regarding performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others.

Physical and Mental Demands

Works in standard office and school building environments.

Qualifications

• Delaware State Certification as a Teacher of Students with Autism or Students with Severe Intellectual Disabilities (Certificate #1573). Subject or area certification is also required.
• Successful candidates must provide evidence of successful PRAXIS II scores or a valid out-of-state teaching license.
• Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Exceptional Children/Special Education or a related discipline.
• Additional education requirements:
  • Graduation with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, with a major in special education and a concentration in autism and severe intellectual disabilities from an NCATE or state-approved educator preparation program, or
  • Graduation with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in special education, plus completion of a minimum of fifteen (15) credits in the following content areas:
    • Introduction to Autism and Severe Intellectual Disabilities (3 credits)
    • Methods of Instruction in Academic Standards and Functional Skills (3 credits)
    • Functional Communication Training (3 credits)
    • Applied Behavior Analysis for Educators (3 credits)
    • Competency-Based Practicum in Behaviorally Based Teaching Techniques (3 credits)

Schedule

10-month position, 188 days (pro-rated if start date is after the first day). Full-time role.

Benefits

• Eligible for the "State Share" of benefits.
• Pension-eligible position.