Certified 5th Grade Exceptional Education Teacher (Adaptive/Life Skills)

As a Certified 5th Grade Exceptional Education Teacher at STEM Preparatory Academy, your responsibilities include planning, delivering, and assessing effective instruction aligned with state standards. You'll be engaging with students through innovative, inquiry-based learning activities, adapting your methods for diverse learning needs, and fostering strong relationships with parents and the local community to support students' academic success.

To qualify for the Certified 5th Grade Exceptional Education Teacher position at STEM Preparatory Academy, candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in education or a related field, along with a Tennessee Teaching License endorsed for exceptional education. Strong knowledge in IEP plan writing and a commitment to diversity and inclusion in education are also essential.

STEM Preparatory Academy is committed to the continuous growth of its educators. As a Certified 5th Grade Exceptional Education Teacher, you will have access to high-quality professional development opportunities designed to enhance instructional practices. These professional development sessions are tailored to foster collaboration and help educators implement innovative strategies effectively.

Community engagement is a crucial aspect of the Certified 5th Grade Exceptional Education Teacher role at STEM Preparatory Academy. You will create opportunities for families to get involved in their children's learning experiences, thereby strengthening the school's connection to the community and promoting holistic development for all students.

At STEM Preparatory Academy, Certified 5th Grade Exceptional Education Teachers have multiple avenues for professional advancement. With a focus on teamwork and leadership, you may have opportunities to take on additional responsibilities, participate in curriculum development, or even pursue roles in administration or specialized educational leadership as you grow within the organization.

To create an inclusive classroom environment, I will implement differentiated instruction strategies that cater to the diverse needs of my students. I will actively seek to understand each student's strengths and challenges, and create personalized learning plans that allow every child to thrive, while fostering a culture of respect and belonging.

In my previous role, I adapted my teaching methods by using visual aids, hands-on activities, and technology to engage students with varying needs. For instance, when teaching a math concept, I incorporated manipulatives that allowed students to visualize the problem, along with interactive software that catered to different learning styles.

I utilize a combination of formative assessments, observations, and IEP goals to assess student progress. This holistic approach enables me to gain insights into each student's learning journey, ensuring I can tailor my instruction to effectively support their growth and development.

I believe in the power of partnership with parents. I actively encourage parental involvement by conducting regular communication through newsletters, phone calls, and parent-teacher meetings. Additionally, I create opportunities for parents to participate in classroom activities, fostering a strong home-school connection.

I view technology as a valuable tool to enhance learning experiences. I integrate assistive technologies that support students’ unique learning needs and utilize educational software that adapts to individual skill levels, ensuring every student can engage meaningfully with educational content.

When addressing behavioral challenges, I prioritize establishing a positive classroom environment based on mutual respect and clear expectations. I utilize positive reinforcement strategies, involve students in setting behavior goals, and work collaboratively with support staff to develop individualized behavior intervention plans when necessary.

Incorporating cultural diversity is essential for enriching student learning. I weave multicultural perspectives into my lessons, share stories from diverse cultures, and celebrate events from around the world, helping students to appreciate their own backgrounds while embracing others'.

Collaboration is fundamental to my teaching philosophy. I believe that working with fellow educators, support staff, and parents fosters a more cohesive learning experience for our students. I regularly engage in collaborative planning sessions to share insights and strategies that benefit all students, especially those with exceptional needs.

I stay current by engaging in ongoing professional development, attending workshops, and participating in online forums and communities focused on special education. Reading research articles and networking with other educators also helps to inform my practices and ensure I implement the most effective strategies.

My motivation to work in exceptional education stems from my deep-seated belief in every child's potential to succeed. Witnessing students overcome challenges and achieve their goals inspires me daily, and I am committed to providing the support and resources necessary to help them flourish.