A Special Education Teacher teaches students who have disabilities, and adapts teaching methods to meet the needs of students. Assesses students and helps to develop individualized education plans that specify the services and accommodations needed for each student. Works in a classroom that includes only students with IEPs, or works with students and teachers in regular classes. For students with severe disabilities, may focus on developing skills for independent living. Works as part of a team that includes therapists, school counselors or social workers.
Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA) is a nationally recognized non-profit leader in childcare and early education. RCMA operates more than 53 centers and 3 charter schools, with a staff of 1,400 employees, in 18 Florida counties. We have grown over the years through our policy of hiring from the communities served, forging a strong bond between parents and RCMA caregivers, teachers, and staff.
WHY WORK FOR US?
Would you rather have a fulfilling career than just a "job"? At RCMA, we feel lucky to work in fulfilling roles every day. Like one big family, we work hand in hand with families who need allies on their journey toward big dreams. Through empathy and compassion, we help cultivate a sense of dignity and pride in these valuable members of society and provide them with resources for growth. If this sounds like a family you'd like to become a member of, we'd love to hear from you!
PURPOSE OF POSITION
: The Mentor Teacher has knowledge and experience in early childhood child development and curriculum. The Mentor Teacher is a leader of the teachers, who provide early childhood services for children and their families to fulfill the mission of RCMA. This is the highest level of the teacher job classification and is an entry level for educational leadership.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
include the following; however, other duties may be assigned: Work as part of a center team or classroom teaching team to: Plan, implement and track professional development goals, using myHeadStart for all education staff and volunteers who work in the classroom. Work directly with all teaching staff to develop their annual professional development plan (PDP) and provide support to them in meeting their professional goals. Plan professional development activities to implement a high quality early childhood education program, using the High Scope curriculum to support quality teaching and learning. Mentor Teacher will use peer mentoring and self-guided study. Provide professional development activities for teachers to conduct developmental screenings for children. Assist center team in making referrals for disability services, when needed. With support from Inclusion Specialist, provide individualization for children with disabilities. Provide professional development activities for teachers to complete on-going Child Assessments, using the Child Observation Record (COR). Use HighScope training to help teachers implement a high quality HighScope Curriculum in each classroom using the HighScope Wheel of Learning for infants/toddlers, and preschool. Provide professional development activities for teachers to provide an environment that protects children's health, mental health, and safety at all times. Provide professional development activities for teachers and parents when children are making transitions from classroom to classroom, home to center, and center to kindergarten. Commit to professionalism and RCMA. Adherence to all RCMA funding and DCF requirements
MANDATORY QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS/EDUCATION
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty element satisfactorily while exercising independent judgment and discretion. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. The individual must meet age, medical, moral character and any other requirements as defined by Florida Statutes. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. After initial hire, the employee must complete mandatory child care training (DCF 45 hours) as specified in the DCF Training Addendum and in accordance with Florida Statutes and funding source requirements to retain eligibility to be employed in this position.
EDUCATION
AS Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development Transcripts must be submitted to ECS for review and the HR Department for final approval. RCMA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and a drug‑free workplace. All candidates selected for employment are required to successfully complete a Level 2 fingerprint-based background screening. Additional information is available on the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse Education and Awareness website at the link provided.
