Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Teacher

General Job Description

The Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Teacher provides instructional services and individualized support to preschool-aged students with disabilities. The teacher develops and implements Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborates with families and related service providers, and fosters an inclusive, developmentally appropriate learning environment that promotes academic, social, emotional, and functional growth.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Provide direct instruction and differentiated learning experiences aligned with early childhood developmental standards and Virginia’s Foundation Blocks for Early Learning.
• Adapt instructional methods, learning materials, and activities to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities.
• Use data-driven practices to assess student progress and adjust instructional strategies.
• Collaborate with families, caregivers, paraprofessionals, and related service providers to support student learning and generalization of skills.
• Maintain compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and state regulations related to special education.
• Create a structured, safe, and nurturing classroom environment that supports positive behavior and fosters independence.
• Participate in child find, eligibility, and transition meetings as needed.
• Utilize assistive technology and augmentative communication strategies when appropriate.
• Complete required reports, documentation, and progress monitoring in a timely and accurate manner.
• Engage in professional development and training to remain current in research-based practices in early childhood and special education.

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities

• Knowledge of early childhood development, best practices in early intervention, and special education instructional strategies.

• Ability to collaborate effectively with families and interdisciplinary teams.

• Strong classroom management and behavior support skills.

• Ability to develop engaging, play-based, and language-rich learning experiences.

• Proficiency in data collection, progress monitoring, and instructional planning.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or Early Childhood Education is required, with a Master’s degree preferred. Candidates must hold or be eligible for a Virginia teaching license with an endorsement in Early Childhood Special Education (Birth–Age 5). Prior experience working with preschool-aged children with disabilities is preferred.