Developmental Specialist I (Special Education Teacher)

Our teachers collaborate closely with each student’s home school to ensure coursework is provided in both online and hard-copy formats and to support students in completing past-due work, staying current, and managing asynchronous learning. We work with families and school personnel to gather relevant academic, attendance, behavioral, and mental health information; establish academic goals aligned with classroom instruction; submit documentation of completed work for credit; share feedback on effective learning strategies; support 504 planning for school re-entry when needed; and provide medical excuses with follow-up plans.

Since 1990, we have proudly served as the only private, licensed academic school within UPMC, delivering high-quality education to students receiving inpatient care. Our collaborative team of 5–6 dedicated teachers prioritizes student needs, maintains strong communication with families and home schools, and uses data-driven feedback to continuously improve our services.

Must have Pennsylvania Teaching Certification in Special Education.

Responsibilities:

Academic Support

• Support children and adolescents with assignment completion during school programming.
• Observe, record, and communicate patient academic progress to the inpatient team and home schools.
• Use observational data to inform school contacts during conferences and as needed.

Communication & Collaboration

• Communicate with families as needed regarding educational concerns.
• Coordinate with school partners to support educational needs and transition planning.
• Report relevant clinical and non-clinical concerns to classroom, clinical, and administrative leadership.

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete all required documentation accurately and within assigned timelines.
• Maintain current patient and program records in compliance with accreditation, licensing, regulatory, and partnership standards.

Team Participation

• Participate in unit meetings, staff meetings, treatment team discussions, and supervision as assigned.

Environment & Professional Standards

• Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe environment in accordance with health and safety regulations.
• Perform in accordance with system-wide competencies and behaviors.
• Complete additional duties as assigned per program guidelines.