Certified Special Education Teacher-4,000 sign-on bonus

A Certified Special Education Teacher at Gersh Academy is responsible for leading instructional programs for small classes, developing individualized lesson plans that align with IEP goals, communicating with parents, and monitoring student progress. You'll also mentor students through daily engagements, participate in CSE/IEP meetings, and utilize online resources for effective distance learning.

To apply for the Certified Special Education Teacher role at Gersh Academy, you should have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, with a preference for Special Education. Additionally, having a Special Education certification, or willingness to obtain it, experience with students with disabilities like ADHD, and skills in applied behavioral analysis are preferred qualifications.

The working environment for a Certified Special Education Teacher at Gersh Academy is a supportive school setting in Issaquah, WA, where teachers engage with small classes both in-person and online. The position typically involves working Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and at times, teachers may need to accommodate additional hours as required by administrative staff.

Full-time Certified Special Education Teachers at Gersh Academy enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes health care plans, retirement options, life insurance, paid time off for vacations, sick days, and public holidays, family leave, and short- and long-term disability support. Professional development and training opportunities are also provided to enhance your skills.

To prepare for a successful application for the Certified Special Education Teacher position at Gersh Academy, ensure your resume highlights relevant experience with special education and your educational background. Familiarize yourself with IEP processes and effective instructional strategies, especially in distance learning. Tailor your application to showcase your passion for teaching and commitment to helping students with special needs.

When developing individualized lesson plans for students with special needs, I assess each child's specific learning objectives outlined in their IEP. I collaborate with parents and specialists to incorporate engaging and effective teaching strategies that cater to diverse learning styles, ensuring the lessons meet the unique needs of each student.

Absolutely! I often use positive reinforcement, such as praise and small rewards, to motivate students. For instance, I implemented a points system where students collected points for participation and completing tasks, which they could exchange for fun privileges. This not only kept them engaged but also fostered a sense of achievement and excitement about learning.

I believe in open and consistent communication with parents regarding their child's progress. I schedule regular meetings to discuss achievements, challenges, and strategies for support. I also use digital platforms to share student progress reports and provide resources that parents can use at home to reinforce learning.

In distance learning, I utilize various educational software and platforms such as Google Classroom and virtual whiteboards for interactive lessons. I also integrate online educational resources, apps, and tools tailored to students’ learning styles, making lessons engaging and accessible from home.

I actively participate in IEP meetings by bringing insights about the student's progress and effectiveness of strategies being implemented. I collaborate with parents and specialists to set realistic goals, offer suggestions for instructional methods, and track progress towards those goals, ensuring everyone is aligned in supporting the student.

To manage challenging behaviors, I use proactive strategies such as establishing clear expectations and routines. When issues arise, I stay calm and implement de-escalation techniques, like redirecting attention or providing a quiet space. It's essential to understand the triggers for these behaviors and adjust my approach accordingly.

Collaboration with other professionals is vital in my teaching approach. I work closely with special education staff, therapists, and counselors to share insights and strategies that best support our students. This collaborative effort ensures a cohesive plan for the student and maximizes their success in the learning environment.

I incorporate technology into my teaching by using interactive educational software and online resources that align with the curriculum. For example, I use various applications to support individualized learning goals, and I encourage students to engage with technology that enhances their educational experience.

I am drawn to work at Gersh Academy because of its commitment to customizing education for students and the organization's dedication to supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. I admire the emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and the personal growth of students, and I am enthusiastic about contributing to this mission.

Ensuring a safe learning environment is a top priority for me. I establish clear rules and procedures to foster a respectful classroom culture. I also monitor interactions and intervene as necessary to prevent any potential harm, employing strategies like positive behavior support to maintain a safe and conducive learning atmosphere.