Reports to: Principal: Elementary and Middle School Principal

Employment Information: 10-month, Full-Time position, Bargaining Unit

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college/university in Deaf Education or a related field required. Master’s Degree preferred.
• Possession of or eligibility for appropriate certification from the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
• American Sign Language proficiency required
• Experience working with Deaf children of the age range to be served is preferred (Early Childhood, Elementary or Secondary).
• Understanding and acceptance of communication principles which emphasize full accessibility to all communication in the school environment, the importance of self-expression and respect for each individual’s communication needs.  (See statement of PSD’s Communication Philosophy and Principles.)
• Understanding of and support for an exploratory, experiential approach to teaching and learning.  Experience with an interdisciplinary curriculum.
• Understanding and knowledge of normal child growth and development.
• Understanding of and experience with a culturally diverse population.
• Experience working as a member of an instructional team is preferred.

Professional Profile:

It is expected that teachers at PSD are up to date with current research and literature not only in Deaf education but in education in general.  They should exhibit a desire to learn, grow and experiment.  Teachers should be willing to put in the time necessary to appropriately plan/prepare for instruction as well as attend professional workshops and seminars.

Duties:

Classroom teachers serve a student population ranging Early Childhood through Secondary.  Classes are arranged according to age, ability, and achievement levels.  Teamwork is essential, as each teacher is involved with other teachers and aides in curriculum planning and the implementation of instructional units.  In addition, teachers work with other support personnel (e.g., therapists, curriculum and behavior support staff, communication specialists, etc.) to provide an integrated and well-rounded instructional program for each student.

Classroom teachers are responsible for the development and implementation of IEPs with the involvement of parents and school districts, and for implementing instructional activities consistent with the educational mission and philosophy of the school.  This approach requires unit planning and experience-based instruction, emphasizes a multicultural orientation involving the Deaf community and Deaf role models and the natural acquisition of language according to the principles of normal child growth and development.  For more information, see the PSD Mission Statement.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

• Occasionally lift up to 15 lbs.
• Generally works in standard classroom setting and climate.
• Works in a highly stressful environment dealing with a wide variety of challenges
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch and reach with hands and arms
• May be required to physically assist students with disabilities

PSD is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, PSD will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact the human resources department.