Big Picture Schenectady, a small innovation high school and partner with the Big Picture Learning network, is seeking high-energy, insightful educators dedicated to creating rigorous and authentic learning experiences for students. Teachers at BPS are called advisors and while certified in a subject area at the high school level, you will coach students in all areas of learning. In your role as advisor you are a teacher, a project manager, an academic counselor and an emotional and social support person; you will work with a group of students to identify their interests and passions, help them find internship opportunities in those areas, and build their learning around those experiences. We seek educators who value "rigor, relevance, and relationships" in their professional practice, and who can engage families and community members as partners in the education of Big Picture Schenectady students.
The Big Picture School believes that schools must be personalized; educating every student equally, one student at a time. Each student’s learning plan should grow out of his or her unique needs, interests and passions. Advisors are more than classroom teachers; they are an integral part of the environment that allows students the freedom to find themselves with the support and motivation of inspiring adults.
The advisor’s job is to create a safe, trusting and collaborative learning environment that enables students to learn through school and community experiences and develop as mature, able, knowledgeable and responsible adults.
Special Education Teacher Role
This position reports to the Building Principal and Special Education Division. The Special Education Teacher develops and provides specialized instruction to meet the unique needs of all students with disabilities. This position requires a high degree of adaptability, attention to diversity and equitable outcomes.
Special Education Teacher Expectations
- Provides research-based specialized instruction to address the instructional goals and objectives contained within each student’s IEP;
- Assesses student progress and determines the need for additional reinforcement or adjustments to instructional techniques;
- Employs various teaching techniques, methods and principles of learning to enable students to meet their IEP goals;
- Develops and implements annual Individualized Educational Program (IEP) plans for students;
- Creates a positive learning experience with emphasis in individualized instruction using appropriate sources;
- Provides direction, supervision and evaluation of educational paraprofessionals as directed;
- Employs and implements a classroom structure and consistency to encourage student responsibility, cooperation and mutual respect consistent with district policies and procedures;
- Collaborates and consults with educational professionals and community service providers regarding the needs of students;
- Performs other comparable duties of a like or similar nature apparent or as assigned.
Special Education Teacher Key Qualities
- Relishes using multiple communication methods that are tailored to and facilitate productive conversations with different stakeholders;
- Applies the critical thinking skills needed to adapt instructional practices to support student growth;
- Builds positive and collaborative working relationships with colleagues;
- Practices patience with all students, families and colleagues;
- Always seeking new ways to teach students the way they learn.
About Schenectady City Schools
With a population of nearly 10,000 students, the Schenectady City School District is one of the largest in the Capital Region. With an incredibly diverse population we are committed to ensuring that all children feel valued, are safe and will learn. We place the highest priority on a culture of equity, ensuring that race, economics, and disability are never predictors of student achievement. Every child in our district counts and will be supported each step of the way, along the path to graduation.
The Schenectady City School District is committed to hiring members of protected classes and residents of the City of Schenectady. For more information on the District’s recruitment and hiring plan, please contact the Human Resources Office at 881-2000 ext. 40133. The Schenectady City School District does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, marital status, veteran status, national origin, race or gender. This policy is in compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Regulations and By-Laws of the Board of Education of the Schenectady City School District.