Title - Probationary SPED/Literacy Teacher 

Location — Rensselaer Academy, Rensselaer, NY

Intro

Here at Questar III BOCES, we believe in changing lives, realizing dreams and doing together what can’t be done alone.  Our vision is that of creating a student-centered culture and putting students first. Our core values include a commitment to excellence by honing our craftsmanship to deliver high-quality work, a commitment to leadership & service by moving the organization, departments and school districts forward by exceeding client expectations, and a commitment to innovation by creating programs and services to address client needs AND by continuously improving our programs and operations.  We believe that organizational excellence is best achieved when leadership is reflective of our diverse society.

About

The Probationary Special Education (SPED)/Literacy Teacher provides specialized instruction and literacy intervention to students with disabilities and those requiring targeted reading support. Working collaboratively with general education teachers, administrators, specialists, and families, this educator develops and implements individualized instructional plans that promote academic growth, literacy development, and student success in an inclusive learning environment. This probationary position offers mentorship, professional development, and ongoing performance support during the probationary period.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality, evidence-based instruction in reading, writing, and literacy skills aligned with state standards and district curriculum.

• Develop, implement, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

• Conduct ongoing assessments to identify student needs, monitor progress, and adjust instruction accordingly.

• Deliver specialized instruction in individual, small-group, and inclusive classroom settings.

• Collaborate with classroom teachers to differentiate instruction and implement accommodations and modifications.

• Maintain accurate documentation of student progress, IEP goals, assessments, and required compliance records.

• Participate in IEP meetings, multidisciplinary team meetings, and parent conferences.

• Foster a positive, inclusive classroom environment that promotes student engagement, independence, and self-advocacy.

• Utilize research-based literacy interventions and instructional strategies to improve reading comprehension, fluency, vocabulary, phonemic awareness, and writing skills.

• Implement classroom management practices that support positive student behavior and social-emotional growth.

• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians regarding student progress and instructional goals.

• Participate in professional development, mentoring, and district initiatives to strengthen instructional practice.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the building administrator.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Special Education, Reading, Literacy, or a related field.

• Reading Specialist certification or structured literacy training (e.g., Orton-Gillingham, LETRS, Wilson Reading System, or similar).

• Experience working with students with diverse learning needs.

• Familiarity with Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Response to Intervention (RTI), and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).

• Experience using educational technology and data-driven instructional practices.

• Knowledge of literacy instruction, reading interventions, and evidence-based instructional practices.

• Understanding of special education laws, regulations, and IEP development.

• Strong communication, organizational, and collaboration skills.

• Commitment to equitable educational opportunities for all learners

Performance will be evaluated in accordance with district policies, state educator evaluation standards, and the terms of the probationary employment agreement.

Title - Crisis Intervention Worker - Exceptional Learning

Location - Rensselaer Academy (Rensselaer, NY)

Intro

Here at Questar III BOCES, we believe in changing lives, realizing dreams and doing together what can’t be done alone. Our vision is that of creating a student-centered culture and putting students first. Our core values include a commitment to excellence by honing our craftsmanship to deliver high-quality work, a commitment to leadership & service by moving the organization, departments and school districts forward by exceeding client expectations, and a commitment to innovation by creating programs and services to address client needs AND by continuously improving our programs and operations. We believe that organizational excellence is best achieved when leadership is reflective of our diverse society.

About

Questar III BOCES announces a full-time (10-month school schedule) Crisis Intervention Worker position to support Questar III special education students located at our Rensselaer Academy, Rensselaer, New York. This position will provide Exceptional Learning staff with additional behavior management support necessary to maintain a classroom environment conducive to learning and to maintain a safe environment for all.

Must have a high school diploma and at least two years of experience working with students who present behavioral challenges in an educational setting.

Preferred candidates will hold a valid Certification in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI).  TCIS training is a requirement of the CIW position.

Columbia County Civil Service residency requirements will apply (must be a resident of Albany, Rensselaer, Columbia, Greene, Ulster or Dutchess county at time of hire).

Questar III prefers an online application, please click on APPLY below.

Or email resume with cover letter to employment@questar.org. Be sure to include Crisis Intervention Worker in the subject line of your email. For more information on Questar III BOCES, please visit www.questar.org.