Long Term Substitute Special Education Teacher

About the Role

Provide academic, community, and social instruction to support the educational programming and physical needs of special education students assigned to Intermediate Unit programs. Plan curriculum, prepare lessons, and other instructional materials to meet the needs of the students, including in-home and virtual instruction. All instruction must align with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania standards. This position is not eligible for remote work, telecommuting, or off-site work arrangements.

Responsibilities

• Regular attendance and reliable on-site presence
• Maintain technology for students and classroom
• Collect data daily/weekly on all Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals and report in accordance with school district schedules
• Develop, write, and implement IEPs
• Convene all required meetings related to evaluations and IEPs
• Review procedural safeguards and summarize for families a minimum of one time per year
• Adapt, modify, and utilize evidence-based instructional materials and assessments
• Plan and prepare lessons based on baseline data and IEP goals
• Utilize appropriate databases to keep required data fields and paperwork updated (e.g., ERs, RRs, Invitations, IEPs, NOREPs, entrance and exit data)
• Follow positive behavior support plans and individualized behavior plans
• Drive to serve children in homes, preschools, daycares, and other natural environments throughout Bucks County
• Maintain current records, including caseload, student demographics, attendance, due dates, and therapy/instruction notes
• Communicate regularly with families to provide support
• Attend staff meetings and trainings and implement best practices
• Serve as team leader for all IEP team members, ensuring legal mandates are met and IEPs are implemented
• Ensure all service providers, team members, and parents are updated on student progress and needs

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree (required)
• Master’s Degree (beneficial)
• PA Special Education Certification (required)
• PA K-12 Regular Education Certification (required)
• Ability to communicate effectively with students, families, colleagues, and community partners
• Proficiency in in-home and online delivery of education and instructional materials
• Citizenship or work authorization to work in the United States

Skills

• Communication: Clearly communicates through oral, written, and virtual mediums
• Instruction & Student Support: Delivers high-quality instruction and provides academic, behavioral, emotional, and individualized support
• Safety & Judgment: Maintains a safe learning environment and uses sound professional judgment
• Planning & Organization: Plans instruction, manages schedules, and maintains organized learning environments
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Collaborates with colleagues, families, and multidisciplinary teams
• Adaptability & Problem Solving: Adjusts to changing needs and responds effectively to challenges
• Attendance & Punctuality: Maintains regular attendance and arrives prepared and on time
• Professionalism & Ethics: Demonstrates integrity, confidentiality, cultural responsiveness, and ethical decision-making
• Technical & Data Skills: Uses instructional technology, student data systems, and assessment tools accurately
• Instructional Leadership: Promotes student engagement and positive learning outcomes
• Assessment & Accountability: Monitors student progress and maintains accurate records
• Equity & Inclusion: Fosters inclusive environments supporting diverse student needs

Work Environment

The work environment is typically moderate in noise level. Instruction may be provided virtually or in the student’s home. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Physical Demands

• Regular onsite presence with a combination of sedentary and active duties
• Frequent sitting, communicating, and fine motor tasks
• Regular movement throughout the work environment, including walking, standing, reaching, bending, kneeling, crouching, and positioning at student level
• Ability to lift up to 10 pounds frequently and up to 25 pounds occasionally; may require assisting students with mobility needs exceeding 25 pounds with proper training
• Active supervision of students across various settings, including crisis intervention when needed
• Specific vision abilities: close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
• Ability to hear and interpret sounds, including student communication and safety alarms

Schedule

This is a full-time, 193-day calendar position. Days and hours are generally Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though hours may vary based on district assignments, program needs, meetings, or training.

Travel

Travel is required and may include Bucks IU locations, client sites, constituent school districts, community agencies, professional conferences, trainings, and state/regional meetings.

Benefits

Excellent employee benefit plan options and a PSERS pension plan.