Preschool Special Education Teacher

Benefits: 401(k) Health insurance Paid time off Tuition assistance Location: G&D Schoolhouse – Livingston Manor, NY Schedule: Full-Time | Monday–Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Position Overview G&D Schoolhouse is seeking a compassionate, creative, and collaborative Preschool Special Education Teacher to join our preschool special education program serving children ages 3–5 with developmental delays and diverse learning needs. The ideal candidate will have experience working with preschool-aged children in a classroom setting and a strong understanding of play-based learning, individualized instruction, and preschool special education processes. This role involves classroom instruction, collaboration with multidisciplinary providers, implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), ongoing progress monitoring, and communication with families and school districts. Qualifications Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Special Education New York State Special Education Teaching Certification (Birth–Grade 2) Pediatric experience preferred Experience working with preschool-aged children in a classroom setting Knowledge of preschool special education processes, including CPSE/CSE meetings Understanding of lesson planning, play-based instruction, and differentiated learning Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills Ability to multitask and work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and related Office software Ability to maintain professional written documentation and reports Friendly, caring, and professional demeanor Essential Responsibilities Classroom & Student Support Prepare and maintain a structured, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment Develop daily routines that support consistency, participation, and learning opportunities Create and utilize visual supports to assist students during daily activities and transitions Individualize instruction and classroom activities based on each child’s developmental level and needs Support students exhibiting behavioral or sensory challenges using positive behavior support strategies Model and encourage appropriate peer interactions and social skills Supervise and collaborate with classroom aides and teaching assistants Incorporate communication, fine motor, sensory, gross motor, cognitive, and social-emotional learning into daily classroom activities Integrate daily living skills into classroom routines, including mealtime, toileting, and transitions Curriculum & Instruction Maintain working knowledge of NYS preschool learning standards Develop and implement lesson plans that address a variety of developmental and educational needs Present engaging, individualized, and play-based learning activities Utilize a variety of educational materials and learning mediums to support instruction Adapt curriculum and instruction to meet the cognitive and developmental levels of students Implement individualized education plans and designated curriculum supports Documentation & Compliance Monitor and document student progress toward IEP goals Complete quarterly IEP progress reports in IEP Direct or district-approved systems Utilize ESDM or other director-approved assessment tools to monitor developmental progress Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant records and documentation Prepare professional annual reports and participate in CPSE meetings as needed Complete routine documentation and adjust instructional strategies or goals when appropriate Ensure confidentiality and compliance with all applicable regulations and policies Collaboration & Communication Collaborate with speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, behavioral specialists, psychologists, social workers, and other team members Communicate professionally with parents and caregivers regarding student progress and classroom participation Participate in CPSE meetings, conferences, trainings, and in-service opportunities Consult with program leadership regarding scheduling, classroom needs, and student supports Demonstrate initiative in identifying concerns and problem-solving collaboratively Maintain effective professional relationships with students, families, and colleagues Additional Responsibilities Supervise students appropriately and ensure student safety at all times Utilize technology for communication, documentation, data management, and reporting Complete additional duties as assigned by program leadership Benefits