Special Education Biology Teacher (Grades 7-12), Probationary

Dual certification in Special Education and Biology is required.

About the role

Under the general supervision of the School Principal and Director of PPS, the incumbent maximizes 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, addressing students’ specific needs, and providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Responsibilities

• Conducts assessments, testing, and diagnostic examinations of students to identify learning issues and recommend corrective procedures.
• Participates in PPTs and assists in developing Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) for students.
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEPs and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations, and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
• Collaborates with administrators and other teaching staff to assess individual student abilities and needs, including those with special needs, and familiarizes stakeholders with social work services.
• Serves as a resource to students and parents, providing counseling to support personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; acts as a liaison between home and school.
• Stays current with developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops, or professional meetings, conducting research, and maintaining professional relationships.
• Maintains accurate and complete record-keeping systems for student information, ensuring compliance with district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal, Director of PPS, or central office administrators.

Requirements

• NYS Certification in Special Education/SWD and Biology (preferred but not required).
• Successful prior special education teaching experience for the appropriate grade level (preferred).

Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, and methods to maximize the educational experience of students with special needs.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based on student learning styles.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, and action plan formulation.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network systems and software applications.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work effectively.
• Strong communication skills with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation regarding performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, climb, squat, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Regularly required to reach above the head, forward, and use hands and fingers to handle objects, tools, or controls.
• Required to talk and hear.
• Occasionally required to work at heights of 20 feet or more.
• Occasionally required to lift and/or push up to 75 pounds.
• Must have specific vision abilities, including close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and color differentiation.

Work Environment

• Noise level typical for a school environment.
• Continuous interaction with the public and staff, often meeting multiple demands from several people.
• Work is generally performed indoors.

Pay

$62,306 – $135,587 (2025/2026 school year).