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About Upper Adams School District – A Community That Thrives on Empowerment
Upper Adams School District is a forward‑thinking public school system located in the heart of Pennsylvania, dedicated to providing an inclusive, supportive, and high‑quality educational experience for every student. Our mission is to empower learners of all abilities to reach their fullest potential, both academically and personally. We pride ourselves on a collaborative culture that values innovation, compassion, and continuous growth. As part of our commitment to excellence, we are expanding our special education team with an Immediately Needed Life Skills Support Teacher who can work from home while maintaining a strong presence in the classroom.
Why This Role Is Different – The Impact You’ll Make
In this role you will become a catalyst for change, shaping the day‑to‑day lives of students who require individualized life‑skills instruction. You will design and deliver engaging curricula, champion the development of individualized education plans (IEPs), and partner closely with families, administrators, and community resources. By joining Upper Adams, you will be part of a vibrant network of educators who celebrate diversity, nurture personal growth, and inspire lifelong learning.
Core Responsibilities – What Your Day Will Look Like
As a Life Skills Support Teacher, you will be entrusted with a broad spectrum of duties that blend instructional excellence with compassionate mentorship. Your responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- IEP Development & Implementation: Lead the creation, review, and execution of individualized education plans for each assigned student, ensuring alignment with state standards and student goals.
- Curriculum Design: Develop differentiated lesson plans that target functional life‑skills—such as communication, self‑advocacy, daily living activities, and community integration—while embedding academic content where appropriate.
- Instruction Delivery: Conduct remote and in‑person instruction, employing evidence‑based strategies, assistive technologies, and multimodal teaching methods to meet diverse learning needs.
- Assessment & Progress Monitoring: Collect, analyze, and report data on student performance, adjusting instructional approaches to maximize growth and meet IEP milestones.
- Collaboration & Communication: Participate actively in IEP meetings, multidisciplinary team discussions, and parent conferences to foster transparent, solution‑focused dialogue.
- Classroom Management: Establish and uphold a safe, structured environment that promotes social‑emotional development, positive behavior, and mutual respect.
- Professional Documentation: Maintain accurate records, including lesson plans, attendance logs, behavioral reports, and confidential student information, in compliance with district policies.
- Mentorship of Support Staff: Direct instructional assistants, providing guidance, feedback, and professional development opportunities.
- Community Engagement: Build partnerships with local agencies, service providers, and community organizations to enhance resources available to students and families.
- Continuous Learning: Pursue professional development opportunities, attend district trainings, and stay current on best practices in special education and life‑skills instruction.
Essential Qualifications – What We Require
To thrive in this position, candidates must demonstrate a solid foundation of education, certification, and personal attributes that align with our district’s high standards.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Special Education, or a closely related field.
- Certification: Pennsylvania State Certification in Special Education plus certification in at least one additional content area (e.g., Health, Physical Education, or Adaptive Physical Education).
- Experience: Minimum of 2 years of direct experience delivering life‑skills instruction or related special‑education services.
- Technology Proficiency: Strong command of standard office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and virtual learning platforms (e.g., Google Classroom, Zoom, Microsoft Teams).
- Background Checks: Ability to successfully complete all mandatory background screenings required by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
- Confidentiality: Proven ability to handle sensitive student information with discretion and professionalism.
Preferred Qualifications – What Will Set You Apart
- Master’s degree in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis, or a related field.
- Certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (BCBA) or a similar credential.
- Demonstrated expertise in assistive technology and adaptive equipment.
- Experience with transition planning for students moving from school to post‑secondary settings.
- Fluency in a second language, enhancing communication with diverse families.
- Active membership in professional organizations such as the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) or the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators (PASA).
Key Skills & Competencies – The Heart of Success
Our ideal candidate possesses a blend of technical, interpersonal, and organizational capabilities:
- Instructional Design: Ability to create engaging, student‑centered lesson plans that align with IEP goals.
- Behavior Management: Proficiency in positive behavior support strategies and de‑escalation techniques.
- Collaboration: Strong teamwork skills to work effectively with teachers, counselors, administrators, and families.
- Communication: Clear, compassionate oral and written communication, including the ability to produce concise reports and persuasive presentations.
- Problem‑Solving: Analytical mindset for troubleshooting instructional challenges and adapting interventions swiftly.
- Time Management: Capacity to juggle multiple student caseloads, documentation, and meeting schedules without compromising quality.
- Technological Adaptability: Comfort with emerging educational technologies, virtual meeting tools, and learning management systems.
- Ethical Integrity: Commitment to the highest professional and ethical standards in education.
Career Growth & Professional Development – Your Future at Upper Adams
Upper Adams School District invests heavily in the professional trajectory of its educators. As a Life Skills Support Teacher, you will enjoy:
- Mentorship Programs: Pairing with seasoned special‑education leaders for guidance and skill refinement.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Financial support for graduate coursework, certifications, or advanced training relevant to your role.
- Leadership Pathways: Opportunities to transition into roles such as Special‑Education Coordinator, Director of Student Services, or Curriculum Specialist.
- Professional Learning Communities (PLCs): Active participation in collaborative groups focused on instructional strategies, data analysis, and inclusive practices.
- Conference Attendance: Funding and time off to attend state, national, or international educational conferences.
Work Environment & Culture – What It’s Like to Be Part of Upper Adams
Our district fosters a warm, inclusive, and forward‑looking workplace where educators feel valued and supported.
- Hybrid Flexibility: While the core of the role is remote, you will spend scheduled days in the school environment to build strong rapport with students and staff.
- Collaborative Atmosphere: Regular team meetings, interdisciplinary projects, and open‑door leadership promote a sense of community.
- Student‑Centered Focus: We celebrate each student’s unique strengths and tailor instruction to nurture independence and self‑advocacy.
- Supportive Administration: Directors and principals are committed to providing resources, feedback, and encouragement.
- Well‑Being Initiatives: Access to wellness programs, employee assistance services, and a balanced workload philosophy.
Compensation, Perks & Benefits – Investing in You
Upper Adams offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options.
- Retirement savings plan with employer match.
- Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and professional development days).
- Life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance.
- Employee wellness programs, including fitness subsidies and mental‑health resources.
- Access to district‑wide technology resources (laptops, tablets, assistive devices).
- Transportation reimbursement for travel to on‑site activities.
How to Apply – Take the Next Step Toward a Rewarding Career
If you are passionate about empowering students with life‑skills expertise, thrive in a collaborative setting, and are eager to make a meaningful difference, we want to hear from you! Please submit your résumé, cover letter, and copies of relevant certifications through our online portal. Even if you feel you’re not a perfect match, we encourage you to apply—great talent often comes in many forms.
Ready to Join Us?
Apply today and become a vital part of a district that celebrates diversity, champion’s inclusive education, and invests in the professional growth of its teachers. Your dedication will shape brighter futures for the students of Upper Adams School District.
Apply Now
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Apply Now