Day Treatment Teacher

JOB TITLE: Day Treatment Teacher

JOB SUMMARY: The Day Treatment Teacher works with children and adolescents in our therapeutic educational setting,  day treatment program. The Day Treatment Teacher collaborates with our mental health professionals, school staff, and families to create a structured and supportive learning environment that promotes academic growth and emotional development.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

• Develop and implement individualized lesson plans that align with students' academic and behavioral needs.
• Adapt curriculum to meet the unique learning styles of students with emotional and behavioral challenges.
• Utilize various teaching strategies to engage students and promote learning.
• Assess student progress and adjust instruction accordingly.
• Establish a structured and supportive classroom environment.
• Implement positive behavioral interventions and support (PBIS) strategies.
• Manage crisis situations and de-escalate challenging behaviors when necessary.
• Foster social-emotional growth by teaching coping skills, emotional regulation, and problem-solving.
• Work closely with mental health professionals, counselors, therapists, and support staff.
• Participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and contribute to student progress reports.
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians about student progress and challenges.
• Engage in professional development and training related to trauma-informed care, special education, and behavioral interventions.
• Maintain accurate records of student attendance, progress, and behavior.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal educational and special education regulations.
• Document incidents and interventions according to program guidelines.

SUPERVISED BY: Hired, supervised, and evaluated by the Director of Family and Youth.

EMPLOYEES SUPERVISED: N/A.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven experience working with adolescents and understanding their development needs.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Understanding trauma-informed practices and mental health conditions.
• Excellent communication, organization, and critical thinking skills.
• Patience, empathy, and adaptability in a high-stress environment.
• Strong classroom management and behavioral intervention skills.
• Bilingual abilities are preferred.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education –bachelor’s degree in special education, or a related field. Master’s degree in special education, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
• Licensure/Certification: Possess and maintain an active IN state teaching license (Special Education license preferred.)
• Minimum of two years’ experience working with students  with emotional and behavioral challenges, preferably in a therapeutic or alternative education setting.
• Ability to build rapport with young people, listen actively, and communicate effectively with clients, families, and colleagues. 
• Effective communication and crisis intervention skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and within a multidisciplinary team.
• CPR/First Aid Certification required. (Or willingness to obtain)
• Appropriate automobile insurance and valid license plates.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Typically based in a therapeutic day treatment center, alternative school, or special education setting.
• May involve working with students with a history of trauma, emotional distress, or behavioral disorders.
• Requires flexibility, resilience, and a commitment to student growth and well-being.
• Occasional standing, walking, lifting, reaching, kneeling, bending, stooping, pushing, and pulling.
• Occasional lifting and/or moving up to twenty-five (25) pounds.

Work Environment:

This role may involve both in-office and community-based services, including schools and homes. Evening and occasional weekend hours may be required to meet client needs.