Special Education Preschool Teacher

Position: Special Education Preschool Teacher Status: Full-time, exempt Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00 am-5:00 pm with an hour lunch. Some evening hours on occasion for parent conferences, scheduled in advance Reports to: Preschool Director Compensation: $75,000-$80,000 annually, depending on experience. ABOUT US St. Mary’s Center has served seniors and young children in West Oakland since 1973. Starting as an outreach effort of St. Mary’s Church, the Center incorporated as an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization in 1992. St. Mary’s Center Preschool prepares 3- and 4-year-old children for success in kindergarten and lifelong learning. Our team of teachers have created an inviting, stimulating classroom where children learn, explore freely, and develop social skills and positive self-image. St. Mary’s Center Preschool is certified by the California Department of Education and is QRIS Five Star rated for quality. For more information, please visit [www.stmaryscenter.org](http://www.stmaryscenter.org/) POSITION SUMMARY Under the supervision of the Preschool Director, the Special Education Preschool Teacher provides specialized instruction and support to preschool-aged children with developmental delays, disabilities, and special needs in an inclusive early childhood setting. The teacher establishes and maintains a safe, healthy, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that supports children’s physical, cognitive, social-emotional, language, and adaptive development. The Special Education Preschool Teacher collaborates closely with families, therapists, specialists, and preschool staff to implement individualized support and ensure each child has equitable access to learning opportunities. The teacher uses developmentally appropriate practices, positive behavior support strategies, and individualized instruction to foster growth, independence, and inclusion. AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY Assessment & Documentation - Conduct ongoing observations and developmental assessments. - Monitor and document student progress toward individualized goals. - Maintain accurate records, reports, and confidential documentation. - Participate in the development and implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and/or Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs). - Collaborate with specialists and support staff to ensure appropriate accommodations and services are provided. Instruction & Client Development - Develop and implement individualized learning experiences for children with special needs. - Adapt curriculum, classroom activities, and teaching methods to meet individual developmental and learning needs. - Support children’s communication, cognitive, motor, sensory, social-emotional, and adaptive skill development. - Use developmentally appropriate practices and positive behavior support strategies. - Encourage physical activities that strengthen social, cognitive, and physical development. - Promote inclusion, peer interactions, independence, and positive self-esteem. - Help children develop problem-solving and self-regulation skills. - Model appropriate behavior and language throughout the day. - Create a learning environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and engagement. Family & Team Collaboration - Maintain open, respectful, and supportive relationships with families. - Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress, development, and concerns. - Collaborate with speech therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, behavioral specialists, and other service providers. - Meet regularly with the Preschool Director and Preschool staff members. - Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development opportunities. - Maintain absolute confidentiality regarding children, families, and Preschool staff. Classroom Environment & Supervision - Prepare the classroom and yard before school begins. - Clean up classroom and yard as needed at the end of the school day. - S…