Summary

The Heart to Heart Program at Franklin Road Academy provides a challenging educational experience for students with Down syndrome in an inclusive, integrated Christian community, with an unwavering commitment to developing the full academic and social potential of each Heart to Heart student and instilling in our typically developing students understanding, acceptance, and love for those with developmental and learning differences.

The position of the Heart to Heart Teacher will focus their work primarily with the students in the Lower School.

Essential Functions

The tasks, duties, and responsibilities of this job include, but are not limited to:

• Deliver Tier 2 and Tier 3 instruction, modifying curriculum and providing behavioral and social supports for lower school students with Down syndrome in general education settings, in collaboration with general education teachers.
• Provide individualized small group and 1:1 instruction with a focus on math, reading, and writing.
• Design differentiated instructional materials and strategies, incorporating visuals, hands-on activities, and multi-sensory approaches.
• Incorporate activities and strategies to support fine and gross motor skill development in collaboration with occupational and physical therapists.
• Maintain continuous data collection of student progress academically, behaviorally, and socially
• Develop and implement individualized learning plans tailored to the student's cognitive profile, language level, and developmental needs.
• Collaborate closely with related service providers (e.g., speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, school counselors) to ensure comprehensive support for the student.
• Provide coaching and consultation to general education teachers and assistants to ensure proper implementation of accommodations and inclusive practices.
• Make recommendations to teachers regarding appropriate accommodations and adjustments required for the instruction of specific students
• Communicate weekly with parents of the student to discuss progress and challenges
• Collaborate with other Heart to Heart teachers to organize service projects and community involvement for FRA students in support of Down syndrome awareness
• Provide information about intellectual disabilities and inclusion to FRA faculty, staff, and students

Qualifications

Education/Experience

• Bachelor's Degree required; Master's degree preferred
• A degree in Special Education is preferred

Skills, Abilities, and Attributes

• Passion for working with students in Special Education
• Strong desire to work in a faith-based community
• Possesses a collaborative spirit with strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Positive attitude and commitment to creating a joyful school experience

Physical Requirements

In compliance with ADA requirements, we will make reasonable accommodations for the known disability of an otherwise qualified applicant.

Additional Responsibilities

The statements in this job description are intended to represent the key duties, essential nature, and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be all responsibilities or qualifications of the job.

All employees are expected to support the mission of Franklin Road Academy, and contribute to the overall life of the school.

As part of the hiring process, all candidates will be required to undergo a pre-employment background check, which may include criminal history, employment and education verification, and a drug screening, in accordance with applicable laws. A positive drug test or any disqualifying information on the background check may result in withdrawal of a job offer.