Special Education Teacher

About Bright Lite Preschool

We are a nonprofit owned up-and-coming early childhood education preschool in East Harlem, dedicated to providing high-quality, inclusive education for underserved young learners ages 3–5 with developmental delays and disabilities. We are committed to nurturing the potential of every child, through tailored educational programs, therapy services, and a supportive environment.

Position Overview

Bright Lite Preschool is seeking a passionate and dedicated Special Education Teacher to lead a classroom of preschool-aged children (ages 3–5) with developmental delays and disabilities. In this role, you will be the captain of your classroom—creating a warm, structured, and language-rich environment where every child feels safe to explore and learn. You will work within a multidisciplinary team (OT, PT, Speech, Counseling) to turn IEP goals into daily successes.

Responsibilities

1. Instructional Leadership

• Differentiated Instruction: Plan and deliver specialized educational services using diverse techniques and multi-sensory approaches to address the diverse learning styles and abilities within the classroom.
• Curriculum Adaptation: Lead the classroom in creating an inclusive environment, adapting school-wide curriculum to be accessible for students with various developmental delays.
• Goal Tracking: Regularly assess students’ strengths and challenges; work with the IEP Coordinator to track progress and update IEP goals quarterly to ensure each child is meeting their developmental milestones.

2. Classroom Management & Team Supervision

• Team Coordination: Communicate lesson plans clearly with Teaching Assistants and Paraprofessionals to ensure instructional alignment and classroom cohesion.
• Staff Supervision: Supervise, support, and mentor teaching assistants, providing the guidance necessary for them to execute their roles effectively.
• Behavioral Support: Implement and monitor individual Behavior Management Plans (BIPs) as needed, using positive reinforcement and trauma-informed strategies.
• Classroom Culture: Serve as a positive role model, treating all students and staff with dignity and respect at all times.

3. Compliance & Documentation

• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and detailed records of student progress, attendance, lesson plans, and all other required documentation.
• Regulatory Alignment: Ensure strict compliance with all New York State (NYS) and local regulations related to Special Education, Early Childhood Education, and Article 47 health codes.
• Safety & Confidentiality: Follow all school policies regarding student health, physical safety, and the confidentiality of sensitive student information (FERPA/HIPAA).
• Reporting: Adjust teaching strategies based on data-driven results and report these findings during Annual Reviews and team meetings.

4. Collaboration & Family Engagement

• Multidisciplinary Teamwork: Collaborate with parents, guardians, therapists (OT, PT, Speech), and administrative team members to ensure a "whole-child" support system.
• Parent Empowerment: Provide parents and guardians with specific resources, at-home strategies, and regular updates to bridge the gap between school and home.
• Professional Growth: Attend mandatory staff meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and professional development workshops to stay current on trends in Early Intervention and Special Education.
• Reliability: Maintain professional standards of attendance and notification of absences to ensure the classroom remains within legal staffing ratios.

Qualifications

• Teacher Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth - 2)
• Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field and State Department of Education certification
• EPI Pen Certification! MUST! Or willing to get!
• Experience in leading a classroom, preferably with a focus on special education.
• Strong understanding of child development and special education strategies.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with students, families, and colleagues.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a dynamic environment.
• Compassionate, patient, and dedicated to supporting the unique needs of each child.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education or a related field.
• Experience working in a diverse, urban educational setting.

Join us in making a difference in the lives of our students by providing them with the support they need to thrive academically and socially. Your expertise can help shape their future!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person