Abilities First, Inc., an affiliate of the Abilities Partnership of the Hudson Valley, has been making a difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities for almost sixty years. We offer a wide variety of services including school and preschool programs, day habilitation, residential habilitation, community habilitation, and employment services.Abilities First recognizes the value of diverse experiences, identities, and backgrounds to and does not discriminate in hiring. We are inclusive, welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Full time Teacher position available in our preschool program located in Wappingers Falls, NY. The Classroom Teacher is responsible for the assessment of individual student's needs, lesson plans, supervision of classroom staff, curriculum planning and development.Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 3:00pm; 32.5 hours per week, 48 weeks per year. This position follows the school calendar (September - June), with a 6-week summer program. Salary Range: $27.19 - $32.00Position Standards
- Where appropriate, assesses the developmental level of students using a standardized assessment tool, as well as conduct on-going assessment.
- Plans and implements an instructional program which meets the individual age-appropriate educational needs of each child and is based on the designated curriculum of the program. Writes IEP (for special needs children), progress notes and weekly lesson plans. Maintains portfolio of student work.
- Organizes and maintains an environment which facilitates children's learning, including use of space, selection of materials, scheduling and behavior management.
- Directs classroom support staff in the assessment, planning and carrying out of the educational program; including usage of classroom computers.
- Confers with related service staff where appropriate to ensure the implementation of therapy goals (OT, PT and speech) in the classroom.
- Develops and maintains positive interpersonal communications with staff and other professionals, maintains positive social-emotional climate which enhances the performance of staff and self-concept of children.
- Works with parents/guardians through informal communications, a daily log, conferences, newsletters, Open House, volunteer opportunities and annual review (for classified students) to share knowledge of children and achieve common goals.
- Attends professional/general staff meetings and in-service training within the agency, district and community. Shares knowledge with other teaching staff . (Minimum of 30 hours every 2 years.)
- Participates as an active member of the Advisory Board.
- Shares knowledge of children with other professionals in order to meet child's educational needs at team meetings and School District CPSE/CSE meetings.
- Provides an adequate and safe level of supervision to students and where a question rises as to the level of adequacy seeks guidance from Preschool Director.
- Attends all curriculum training sessions and implements the program fully within the classroom, including utilization of assessment tools.
- Adhere to agency Code of Legal and Ethical Behavior, which require all employees, consultants, board members, volunteers and affiliates to perform their responsibilities according to ethical and legal standards with honesty, integrity, fairness, good faith and respect for others and the law.
- Ensures that employees follow the Code of Ethical and Legal Behavior and conform to the strictest standards of Corporate Compliance and HIPAA, as well as all federal, state, local and municipal laws and regulations.
- Will incorporate core concepts of CQL philosophy into day-to-day operation and support methods.
- Supports agency vision and mission.
- Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard to personal safety and safety to others.
- Performs other appropriate job-related activities as required by immediate supervisor, program director, or as circumstances warrant.
- Will hold employees under their supervision accountable for position standards in their job descriptions
- Will complete performance evaluations for all staff under supervision at least annually.
- Will regularly evaluate internal systems and make recommendations for improvements in efficiency, productivity and accountability.
Excellent benefits including On-demand payment: access your earnings as you earn them, as early as the next day without waiting for your next paycheck. Paid holidays, snow days, sick and personal time, continuing education, 401-k & Medical/Dental/Vision offered.Earn more with the College of Direct Support - online classes paid for by the agency, available 3 semesters per year with a salary increase upon each completed semester.Become involved in the incredible mission of Abilities First, Inc., by providing people with disabilities and their families with support to attain independence, self-determination, integration and acceptance by others through education, exploration and experience.Requirements
- NYS Teacher Certification in Special Education B-2 or permanent Special Education certification required.
- Experience working with students with developmental disabilities and behavioral support plans preferred.