Special Education Teacher - Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 is one of 29 intermediate units providing services for member school districts, including student services, training, technical assistance, online learning, and customized programs. IU8 serves approximately 47,000 students across Blair, Somerset, Bedford, and Cambria counties within a 3,500-square-mile area.

About the role

This position provides educational services in various settings to eligible students who require specially designed instruction pursuant to an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The role involves meeting teaching duties as outlined in CSPG 60, 61, or 62, relevant laws, Board Policy, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate knowledge of student characteristics, pedagogy, content, and PA academic standards.
• Attend evaluation and re-evaluation report meetings; secure and utilize meeting information.
• Develop and implement IEPs for students, adhering to federal and state timelines.
• Monitor and assess student progress toward IEP goals and general curriculum objectives.
• Maintain current student records, including evaluation reports, re-evaluation reports, and IEPs, in compliance with regulations.
• Use diagnostic and evaluative methods to assess IEP effectiveness; modify general education curriculum as needed.
• Develop lesson plans, instructional materials, and deliver differentiated instruction.
• Implement classroom management systems and positive behavior support strategies.
• Utilize technology, research-based methods, and effective strategies to enhance student progress.
• Identify student needs and collaborate with staff to address social, emotional, behavioral, and academic issues.
• Establish and maintain professional relationships with peers, support staff, parents, administration, and school district personnel.
• Administer required informal and formal assessments based on student needs and state regulations.
• Abide by federal, state, and local school laws, regulations, and policies, including the Pennsylvania Code of Professional Practice and Conduct for Educators.
• Ensure all student education documentation is up-to-date and properly filed.
• Communicate effectively in verbal and written form professionally and timely.
• Maintain professional competence and expand knowledge in relevant areas.
• Demonstrate regular and timely attendance; use a personal vehicle for reliable transportation to all work locations.
• Perform other duties as assigned in accordance with IU8 Board policy, administrative regulations, state, and federal laws.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education.
• Pennsylvania Department of Education Teaching Certification in accordance with Certification Staffing Policy Guidelines (CSPG).
• Current and acceptable clearances: Act 34 (PA State Police), Act 15 (PA Child Abuse History), Act 114 (PDE Fingerprinting), PDE 6004 (Arrest & Conviction), and Act 168 (PA Sexual Misconduct background).
• Upon hire, obtain a certificate of medical examination and tuberculosis test as required under Chapter 14 of the Public School Code.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication (verbal and written) skills.
• Knowledge of special education regulations and procedures.
• Knowledge of positive, proactive classroom management systems.
• Knowledge of positive behavior support techniques and strategies.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain confidentiality.
• Proficient technology skills.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Work in school, classroom, office, agency, or community settings; may require work with learners outside the school building.
• Regular, daily travel to multiple locations within the IU required for itinerant positions.
• Strength and ability to lift and/or assist students aged 3 to 21, including those using assistive appliances (e.g., wheelchairs).
• Ability to push, pull, lift, and move up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to physically restrain students presenting a danger to themselves or others using trained techniques.
• Ability to remain stationary for extended periods and move about various work environments.
• Ability to position self to manage and retrieve job materials and supplies.
• Ability to operate a computer and office equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to communicate information effectively and exchange information with others.
• Ability to interpret, analyze, and problem-solve complex documents relating to federal, state, and local mandates.
• Willingness to travel as necessary to fulfill job duties.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage with no monthly premiums.
• Dental Insurance.
• Vision Care Plan.
• Health Savings Account (HSAs).
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• 403(b) Plan.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Pennsylvania Public Schools Employee’s Retirement System (PSERS).