DSAP Teacher

JOB SUMMARY:

The DSAP Teacher is responsible for supporting the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional development of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in an approved private school setting. Under the supervision of a certified Special Education Teacher or administrator, the Non-Certified/DSAP Teacher delivers instruction aligned with students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and provides consistent behavioral and classroom support. This role is intended for individuals actively pursuing special education certification through a state-approved program or who are eligible under a Durational Shortage Area Permit (DSAP).

WORK SCHEDULE:

This is a 219-day (including ESY), full-time exempt position. Schedules follow the approved school calendar and may include occasional after-school meetings, trainings, or IEP conferences.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provide classroom instruction under the guidance of a certified special education teacher or educational supervisor.

• Assist in the planning, delivery, and modification of lessons to meet students’ IEP goals.
• Support the collection of academic and behavioral data and maintain accurate documentation.
• Implement behavior support strategies and classroom management practices consistently.
• Collaborate with instructional assistants, related service providers, and other team members to support individualized student needs.
• Participate in team meetings, staff training, and IEP discussions, contributing relevant observations and insights.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and supportive learning environment.
• Assist students with activities of daily living, as needed, including transitions, hygiene, meals, and recreational participation.
• Follow crisis intervention protocols and participate in de-escalation or behavioral support procedures when required.
• Maintain compliance with agency, state, and programmatic policies and expectations.
• Engage in ongoing professional development as part of the DSAP pathway or certification track.
• Maintain active certification in agency-approved crisis intervention training, including all required levels of Physical and Psychological Management Training (PMT). Apply training techniques appropriately to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals served, staff, and others in the environment. Demonstrate competency in de-escalation strategies, safe physical interventions, and adherence to agency protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Education or supervising teacher.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

SKILLS:

• Ability to deliver instruction and provide support in alignment with lesson objectives and student goals.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proficiency in basic technology, including educational software, email, and data entry.
• Time management and adaptability in a dynamic classroom setting.

KNOWLEDGE:

• Basic understanding of special education principles and individualized instruction.
• Familiarity with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD).
• Awareness of trauma-informed care and behavior management strategies.
• Knowledge of IEP processes and special education documentation (preferred).

ABILITIES:

• Ability to work under supervision and follow instructional plans and behavioral strategies.
• Ability to build rapport with students while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Ability to remain calm and supportive in high-stress or crisis situations.
• Ability to participate physically in all aspects of the school day, including behavior support when necessary.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical and legal standards in educational settings.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, psychology, or a related field required.
• Active enrollment in or recent completion of a teacher preparation program in special education preferred.
• Eligible for DSAP, intern permit, or other non-certified teaching placement recognized by the state (if applicable).
• Experience working with children or adolescents with ASD and/or IDD preferred.
• Must complete required trainings (e.g., CPR/First Aid, PMT, mandated reporting, DDS Medication Certification) post-hire if not already certified.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record may be required depending on student transport or outing responsibilities.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Work is performed in a school/classroom setting.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, assist with physical interventions, and support individuals with mobility needs.
• Ability to remain on feet for extended periods and actively participate in classroom and community-based activities.
• Exposure to behaviors that may require de-escalation or intervention.
• Perform all requirements of physical management techniques (e.g., PMT) if trained and authorized.

A job description is not meant to be all-inclusive of every task and/or responsibility.