Teacher - ESE SC Most Supportive Classroom

Looking to make a difference in an innovative and dynamic non-profit agency? UCP of Central Florida unlocks the potential of thousands of children each year at our campuses, pediatric therapy clinics and parent support programs.

Job Summary:

Teacher is responsible for providing a safe, structured, and nurturing learning environment for students with high magnitude maladaptive behaviors. Working in a 3:2 ratio setting, the teacher will collaborate with support staff to deliver individualized instruction, manage student behavior, and implement social-emotional interventions. The teacher will use evidence-based strategies, such as those aligned with TEACCH or other structured teaching methodologies, to address the unique needs of students to promote their academic and social-emotional development, and prepare them for successful integration into general education classrooms or life outside of school.

• Design and deliver individualized and differentiated instruction aligned with each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals.
• Implement specialized teaching methods to support both academic and social-emotional learning, focusing on student needs in areas such as emotional regulation, social skills, and coping strategies.
• Utilize visual supports, task systems, and structured teaching methodologies to promote understanding and independence.
• Modify curriculum as necessary to ensure accessibility for students with emotional and behavioral challenges.
• Assess student progress through both formal and informal assessments, adjusting instruction as needed.
• Implement Positive Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), using proactive strategies to support positive student behavior.
• Utilize a range of behavior management techniques (e.g., reinforcement strategies, de-escalation techniques, restorative practices) to address challenging behaviors and promote a safe, positive classroom environment.
• Collaborate with other staff members to provide consistent and predictable routines, transitions, and expectations.
• Teach students social-emotional skills, including conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and communication.
• Work collaboratively with classroom support staff (e.g., teaching assistants or paraprofessionals) to maintain the 3:2 student-to-staff ratio, ensuring all students receive individual attention and support.
• Coordinate with special education professionals, school counselors, and other related service providers to develop and implement comprehensive educational plans for students.
• Actively participate in IEP meetings, providing input on student progress, behavior, and social-emotional development.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians to report on student progress and discuss strategies for supporting students at home.
• Create a well-organized, structured classroom environment that reduces sensory and emotional triggers for students.
• Set up designated spaces for individual work, group instruction, and emotional regulation (e.g., calming corners, sensory areas).
• Maintain a calm, predictable environment with clearly defined boundaries and expectations.
• Provide a safe space where students feel valued and understood, and implement crisis intervention strategies when necessary.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of student progress, behavior incidents, and communication with families.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state special education laws, including the development and implementation of IEPs and behavior plans.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training in areas related to behavior management, and trauma-informed teaching practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What UCP Offers

Our mission at UCP is to empower children with and without disabilities to achieve their potential by providing individualized support, education and therapy services in an inclusive environment. When you join UCP of Central Florida you partner with a team that is making a positive impact on the futures of our children. For over 70 years, we have been dedicated to enriching the lives of children of all abilities across Central Florida as 8 campuses: Downtown Orlando, East Orlando (near UCF), Kissimmee, Pine Hills, Lake Mary, and Winter Garden.

UCP of Central Florida offers a competitive benefit package available to all employees! Some perks to being a UCP Team Member may include: health insurance (free option after the first year), dental insurance options, free life insurance, paid time off, discounted on-site childcare, 403B/Retirement match, short & long term disability, and support in continuing your education.

Education and Training:

• Bachelor Degree or Higher – Preferably in Elementary or Exceptional Education

AND

• Florida Statement of Eligibility or Professional Teaching Certificate Elementary Education or Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 3 (if teaching up to 3rd grade only), ESE certification, Reading Endorsement and ESOL Endorsement

Minimum Experience:

• 1 year as an ESE teacher working with students with ASD/behavior challenges.
• Experience collecting behavior data and implementing IEP/BIP
• PI Trained (Current)

Salary : $49,000 - $51,000