Extended Day-to-Day Substitute Teacher - Middle School Learning Support in Derry, Londonderry

Job ID: 420

Position Type: Substitute Teaching / Extended Day-to-Day Substitute Teacher

Date Posted: 6/26/2026

Location: Derry Area Middle School

Closing Date: 07/10/2026

Approximate Dates: August 17, 2026 through end of October/early November

Certification Requirement: Special Education PK-12 or Special Education PK-8

Service Range: Secondary level - Middle School

Basic Function

The Learning Support Teacher plans and administers the instructional program and classroom operation in compliance with guidelines and regulations determined by the administration, Board of Directors, state and federal agencies. He/she will create an environment that encourages learning, motivates students to develop skills, maximises independence, emphasises communication and affords opportunities to generalise skills in natural settings as well as participation in general education activities with typical peers. The Learning Support Teacher serves as a resource for students with significant cognitive and/or pervasive developmental disabilities. The Learning Support Teacher will utilise all resources available to establish a cooperative relationship with parents, staff members and administrators to support each student's opportunity to learn and grow in educational and life experiences. The position of Learning Support Teacher shall include active participation in the school’s operation to support a positive learning environment in the school building. This position reports to and is evaluated annually by the Director of Special Services and the Building Principal and/or his/her designee.

Education and Experience

The requirements for this position are a minimum of a bachelor's degree and appropriate Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) certification and qualifications prescribed by law, to include No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

The Learning Support Teacher will demonstrate proficiency with the Derry Area School District curriculum, Benchmarks, PA Standards, and appropriate assessments. He/She will strengthen his/her abilities by reviewing innovative programs supported by best practice and research. The Learning Support Teacher must be able to articulate the school and district goals regarding the philosophical, historical, and legal foundations of the special education program to staff, students, parents and community members. He/She must possess the knowledge, pedagogical abilities, and attitudes necessary to be a successful scholar, decision maker and agent for curriculum enhancement and change. The Learning Support Teacher must be aware of and comfortable using computer and technological applications as educational tools, to include utilising e‑mail, Google products, Microsoft Office, spreadsheet and curriculum‑based software. Additionally, the Learning Support Teacher must understand how students differ in their approaches to learning; while creating instructional opportunities that are adapted to diverse learners.

Authority and Responsibilities

• Teaches curriculum and incorporates language skills, writing skills and critical learning procedures, utilising the curriculum planning guide adopted by the Board of Directors.
• Instructs students in basic subject matter as specified in state laws, regulations and District policies.
• Develops clear and appropriate lesson plans and identifies instructional materials on a weekly basis (minimum).
• Selects, designs and organises objectives, strategies and materials for teaching and incorporates research findings in the instructional program.
• Provides individualised and small group instruction (as necessary) to adapt the curriculum to the needs of each pupil.
• Determines the appropriate pace for instruction related to students’ abilities/disabilities and explains material and subject content to students and parents.
• Differentiates instruction for students based upon need and works with students and other teachers in inclusive settings.
• Establishes and maintains standards of behaviour in the classroom and throughout the school to achieve a positive and functional learning atmosphere for students.
• Evaluates students’ academic and social growth, keeps appropriate records, prepares student progress reports, and provides accurate and constructive feedback to students and parents (as necessary).
• Uses data to improve the learning and instruction process.
• Cooperates with other professional staff members to identify student needs and develop assessments to solve health, attitude and learning problems.
• Creates an effective learning environment.
• Participates in the selection of books, textbooks, and other instructional materials.
• Supervises students in out‑of‑classroom activities during the assigned work day.
• Administers group standardised tests in accordance with District regulations.
• Participates in curriculum development programs.
• Participates in faculty committees, meetings and other faculty sponsored programs supporting the educational program.
• Maintains professional competence through District sponsored in‑service programs and approved professional development activities.
• Demonstrates regular and timely attendance.
• Is able to talk or hear, as well as speak and write in a clear, concise manner.
• Is able to move throughout the building (all floors) and school grounds as necessary.
• Is able to regularly lift or move fifteen (15) pounds and occasionally up to fifty (50) lbs.
• Is able to use hands for fine manipulation, handle or feel and reach with hands and arm using a keyboard and/or video display terminal.
• Frequently stands and stoops, kneels, crouches or crawls and climbs stairs.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.
• Collaborates and cooperates with other professional staff members and administrators in facilitating the delivery of the special education program to students.
• Follows all Board policies, and building procedures and submits required information and reports within identified timelines.
• Performs other duties as may be assigned by the Director of Special Services, Building Principal, Superintendent or his/her designee.
• Plans effective instructional strategies for adapting and/or modifying general curriculum to meet the needs of individual students.
• Plans and prepares for IEP and parent meetings.

Benefits

Benefits are available to all active teachers within the school district. Additional details regarding benefits can be provided upon request.