Special Education Classroom Teacher - Elementary School

About the role

The Vanguard School, founded in 1959 and located on a beautiful 28-acre campus in Malvern, PA, is dedicated to the growth and development of children and young adults with a variety of special needs. Through a collaborative and holistic approach, we help students develop a strong sense of self-worth in an environment driven by respect, appreciation, learning, and growth.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement daily lessons, both academic and behavioral, for assigned students.
• Maintain accurate records, monitor student progress, and provide accurate reporting.
• Plan instructional lessons in writing, addressing individual student differences and pre-determined goals.
• Develop and monitor appropriate goals for assigned students throughout the year.
• Implement behavioral programs, define limits and expectations, encourage self-discipline, and document incidents.
• Supervise students at all times, including instructional time, homeroom, clubs, lunch, playground, transportation, and trips.
• Deliver goal-related instruction with clear expectations, equitable participation, proper pacing, differentiation, and assessment.
• Maintain records for each student, reflecting starting points, strengths, deficiencies, objectives, learning modes, materials, and progress evaluations.
• Correlate instruction with other subject areas and specialists, utilizing resources such as psychologists, therapists, and counselors.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences professionally.
• Assign and ensure proper care, use, and return of instructional materials.
• Maintain classroom appearance and manage end-of-year inventory and storage.
• Assist with budgeting, including program goals, ordering materials, and suggesting field trips.
• Demonstrate competency in VSS core values: Communication and Listening, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Ethics, Professionalism, and Teamwork.
• Comply with organizational policies and procedures.
• Maintain professional, confidential, and ethical relationships with all constituents.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings, in-service activities, and other required meetings.
• Maintain credentials and stay informed on PDE regulations and state/national standards through continued professional development.
• Perform related duties, special assignments, and projects as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education, Elementary Education, or a related field.
• Current, valid Pennsylvania certification appropriate for assignment.
• Exposure to and participation in special education-related programming.
• Ability to recognize the individuality and uniqueness of each student and treat them with respect and dignity.
• Ability to engage intellectually and physically in all components of the educational process.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with administrators, colleagues, students, parents, and others.
• Knowledge of correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary.
• Proficiency in using computers and performing clerical skills.

Schedule

Monday to Friday, 7:45 AM to 3:30 PM (10-month, full-time position).

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Full comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off (PTO).
• 100% short and long-term disability coverage.
• Robust Employee Assistance Program.
• Generous annual contribution to each employee's 403(b) retirement plan.
• Team-building events and staff outings.

The Vanguard School and Services is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and provides reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.