INVO is seeking an Emotional Support SPED Teacher for a local charter school. The Emotional Support Teacher for grades 6-8 at Philadelphia Charter School is responsible for providing specialized instruction and support to students with emotional and behavioral needs. The teacher will create and maintain a structured and supportive classroom environment that fosters students' academic, social, and emotional development. This role involves developing individualized educational plans (IEPs), implementing behavior intervention plans (BIPs), and collaborating with other staff members to ensure students receive the necessary support to succeed in school.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Individualized Instruction:

• Develop and implement individualized educational plans (IEPs) tailored to meet the unique emotional, social, and academic needs of each student.
• Provide direct instruction in core academic subjects and social-emotional learning (SEL) skills, utilizing strategies that accommodate varying learning styles and behavioral needs.
• Differentiate instruction to ensure that all students can access the curriculum and achieve their IEP goals.
• Use data-driven approaches to monitor and assess student progress, making adjustments to instruction as needed.

1. Behavioral Support and Management:

• Develop and implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) for students requiring additional behavioral support.
• Utilize positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS) to promote a safe and conducive learning environment.
• Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation strategies when necessary to maintain a calm and supportive classroom atmosphere.
• Work closely with students to develop coping strategies, self-regulation skills, and positive social interactions.

1. Classroom Environment:

• Establish a structured and predictable classroom environment that promotes emotional safety and positive relationships.
• Create a classroom culture that values diversity, inclusion, and respect for all students.
• Foster a sense of community among students, encouraging peer support and collaboration.

1. Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with general education teachers, special education staff, counselors, and administrators to coordinate support for students.
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress, behavior, and any concerns.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, including IEP meetings, to discuss student progress and plan for future support.
• Work with outside agencies, when necessary, to provide additional resources and support for students.

1. Professional Development:

• Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in emotional and behavioral support, as well as special education law.
• Share knowledge and strategies with colleagues to promote a school-wide understanding of emotional support and SEL.
• Reflect on and refine instructional practices to continually improve student outcomes.

1. Compliance and Documentation:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student progress, IEP goals, BIPs, and other related documentation.
• Ensure that all teaching practices and interventions comply with state and federal special education laws and regulations.
• Prepare and submit required reports and documentation in a timely manner.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Certification: Pennsylvania teaching certification in Special Education required; certification in Emotional Support or a related area preferred.
• Experience: Previous experience working with students with emotional and behavioral needs, particularly in a middle school setting, is preferred.
• Skills:
  • Strong understanding of social-emotional learning (SEL) and behavior management strategies.
  • Ability to create and implement effective IEPs and BIPs.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
  • Patience, empathy, and a commitment to supporting the emotional and academic growth of students.
  • Proficiency in using educational technology and data management systems.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand, walk, and engage with students for extended periods.
• Ability to respond quickly to behavioral incidents or emergencies.
• Ability to lift and move classroom materials and equipment as needed.

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in a classroom setting within a middle school environment.
• The role may involve managing challenging behaviors and providing support to students in emotional distress.
• Flexibility is required to respond to the varying needs of students and the school community.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation with flexible pay options
• Medical/Dental/Vision Coverage 
• Flexible Spending Plan for medical and dependent coverage
• Professional Liability Coverage 
• Licensure reimbursement 
• Annual Professional Development stipend
• Professional membership stipend
• 401(k) Retirement Saving Plan with a discretionary company match 
• Many More!