POSITION TITLE: AUTISM TEACHER – ELEMENTARY (Anticipated Vacancy 2026-2027)
CONTRACT YEAR: 10-Month Teacher Contract
SALARY: Teacher Scale Commensurate with Experience (Based on FY27 Salary Scale)
START DATE: August 1, 2026

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Autism Teacher provides specialized instruction and support to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related disabilities in accordance with each student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). The teacher creates a structured, supportive, and engaging learning environment that promotes academic achievement, communication skills, social-emotional growth, independence, and positive behavior. The Autism Teacher collaborates with general education teachers, related service providers, administrators, and families to ensure students receive appropriate services in the least restrictive environment.

DIRECT ACCOUNTABILITY AND REPORT

Works under the supervision of the school principal, who is responsible for carrying out guidance and direction. An annual evaluation will be based on the job description, district and personal goals and objectives specific to the school or position, student achievement data, and overall performance.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution in Special Education or a related field.
• Holds or is eligible for a Virginia Provisional, Collegiate Professional, or Postgraduate Professional License with an endorsement in Special Education – General Curriculum, Adapted Curriculum, or another applicable special education endorsement.

EXPERIENCE

• Experience working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder preferred.
• Knowledge of evidence-based instructional and behavioral strategies for students with autism preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) years of successful teaching experience preferred.

ESSENTIAL PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES

PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE

The teacher demonstrates knowledge of autism spectrum disorders, special education practices, and child development by providing individualized and meaningful learning experiences.

• Demonstrates knowledge of characteristics associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their impact on learning.
• Implements evidence-based instructional practices designed for students with autism.
• Utilizes visual supports, structured teaching strategies, communication systems, and assistive technology as appropriate.
• Demonstrates knowledge of behavior intervention techniques and positive behavior supports.
• Collaborates with related service providers to support student growth and development.
• Communicates clearly and effectively with students, staff, and families.

INSTRUCTIONAL PLANNING

The teacher plans instruction using Virginia Standards of Learning, IEP goals, assessment data, and evidence-based practices.

• Uses student performance data and IEP goals to guide instructional planning.
• Develops individualized and differentiated lesson plans.
• Incorporates communication, social skills, functional skills, and behavioral supports into instruction.
• Plans accommodations and modifications based on student needs.
• Develops appropriate long- and short-range instructional plans.

INSTRUCTIONAL DELIVERY

The teacher effectively engages students through specialized instructional methods designed to meet diverse learning needs.

• Provides direct instruction in academic, communication, social, behavioral, and functional skills.
• Uses structured teaching methods and visual supports to promote student success.
• Differentiates instruction based on student strengths and needs.
• Reinforces learning objectives consistently throughout instruction.
• Implements individualized behavior support strategies.
• Utilizes instructional technology and assistive technology when appropriate.
• Supports student participation in general education settings when appropriate.

ASSESSMENT OF AND FOR STUDENT LEARNING

The teacher systematically gathers and uses data to monitor student progress and guide instruction.

• Uses formal and informal assessments to monitor student growth.
• Collects and maintains data on academic, behavioral, communication, and functional goals.
• Monitors progress toward IEP goals and objectives.
• Provides timely feedback to students, families, and educational teams.
• Uses assessment results to adjust instructional practices.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

The teacher creates a structured, positive, safe, and supportive environment conducive to learning.

• Establishes predictable routines and clear expectations.
• Maintains a classroom environment that promotes independence and student success.
• Implements positive behavior intervention and support strategies.
• Promotes social interaction and communication opportunities.
• Respects and values student diversity and individual differences.
• Maintains a safe learning environment for all students.

PROFESSIONALISM

The teacher maintains a commitment to professional ethics, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Collaborates with administrators, teachers, related service providers, and families.
• Participates in professional development related to autism and special education.
• Maintains confidentiality of student information.
• Adheres to federal and state laws, division policies, and ethical guidelines.
• Builds positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Communicates effectively regarding student progress and needs.

STUDENT ACADEMIC PROGRESS

The work of the teacher results in measurable student growth and achievement.

• Establishes measurable goals based on baseline data and student needs.
• Monitors and documents student progress regularly.
• Uses multiple measures to demonstrate student growth.
• Adjusts instruction based on performance data.
• Provides evidence of progress toward academic and IEP goals.

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

• Serves as a member of the IEP team and multidisciplinary educational team.
• Develops, implements, and monitors Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Conducts annual reviews and participates in eligibility and reevaluation meetings.
• Maintains accurate and timely special education records and documentation.
• Collaborates with related service providers, including speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, school psychologists, and behavior specialists.
• Implements accommodations, modifications, and behavior intervention plans as required.
• Supports students in accessing the general education curriculum whenever appropriate.
• Provides consultation and support to general education teachers regarding student needs and accommodations.
• Maintains ongoing communication with parents and guardians regarding student progress.
• Ensures compliance with IDEA, Section 504, Virginia Department of Education regulations, and division procedures.

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here represent those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform basic functions. Duties are normally performed in a school/classroom environment.

 

Equal Opportunity Employer: Brunswick County Public Schools is committed to a policy of non-discrimination based upon race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and age in the administration of any of its educational programs, activities, or with respect to employment. Inquiries should be directed to Brunswick County Public Schools, Human Resources Department, 1718 Farmers Field Road, Lawrenceville, Virginia 23868. EMAIL: bcpshr@brunswickcps.org.