Elementary Autism Spectrum Disorder Teacher

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students' specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Essential Functions

• Counsels students and parents to provide guidance leading to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management.
• Participates in PPT’s and assists in developing Individual Educational Plans ("IEP") for students.
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing student information to prospective colleges and employers, as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Serves as a resource to students and parents to provide counseling.
• Selects and requisitions appropriate books, aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.
• Utilizes appropriate Crisis Prevention Techniques (CPI) to manage verbally & physically aggressive situations.

Additional Duties

• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Qualifications

• Valid Michigan Teaching Certification.
• Special Education endorsement in ASD preferred.
• Knowledge of research based interventions for reading and math.
• Knowledge of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support.
• Knowledge of behavior support strategies.
• Previous experience teaching these programs.
• An understanding of a “learning styles” approach to instruction and a respect for students’ multiple intelligences.
• Knowledge of evidenced based practices in Autism.