Special Educator

Background

FIRST Step Together Association (FISTA) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting individuals with cognitive impairments, communication disorders, psycho-motor difficulties, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, hyperactivity, behavioral, and psycho-social problems. Established in 1993 and located in North Lebanon, FISTA’s mission is to provide education, vocational training, and professional rehabilitation for persons with disabilities, and to advocate for their rights. FISTA adheres to a strict zero-tolerance policy against any form of gift, favor, or hospitality offered to its staff by suppliers. This policy extends to a firm stance against sexual harassment, exploitation, abuse, and child abuse, with a commitment to thoroughly investigate all allegations and take appropriate disciplinary action when necessary.

FISTA is looking for a Special Educator under the “Shabake2” Project which aims to enhance the resilience of civil society organizations in Lebanon to improve crisis prevention and management.

Key Responsibilities

The primary role of Special Educator at FISTA is to work, within a classroom, with children with disabilities. The educator  will work with students who have learning, mental, emotional, or sensorial disabilities. She will adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects to students with moderate to severe disabilities. They also teach basic skills to students with severe disabilities.

• Assess students’ skills and determine their educational needs.
• Adapt general lessons to meet students’ needs.
• Develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for each student.
• Plan activities that are specific to each student’s abilities.
• Teach and mentor students as a class, in small groups, and one-on-one.
• Implement IEPs, assess students’ performance, and track their progress.
• Update IEPs throughout the school year to reflect students’ progress and goals.
• Discuss students’ progress with parents, other teachers, counselors, and administrators.
• Find engaging activities to teach skills (e.g. drawing and theater drama).
•  Manage classroom crises and resolve conflict.
• Collaborate with the school counselors and speech therapist to create holistic intervention plans.
• Coordinate with the program coordinator.
• Comply with all FISTA policies and bylaws.

Qualifications and Experience

Qualifications and Experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Education or special teaching Diploma is required.
• An experience of at least five years working in teaching and conducting educational sessions.
• Experience working with children with disabilities, specifically addressing their unique needs.
• Practical experience in providing therapeutic support to children who have various disabilities by understanding and addressing the unique mental health challenges, using specialized therapeutic techniques and interventions tailored to their specific circumstances.
• Good knowledge of current special education topics and methodologies

Soft Skills:

• Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to relate well to others is essential.
• Communication Skills: Must possess excellent verbal communication and active listening skills.
• Patience: The ability to remain patient throughout the treatment process.
• Trustworthiness: Expected to maintain confidentiality of patient information.
• Empathy: An understanding and identification with others’ experiences.
• Critical Thinking Skills: The capacity to accurately diagnose and develop effective treatment plans.
• Commitment to human rights principles.
• Respect for the roles and positions of each team member.
• Flexibility to adapt to special situations or supervisor requests.
• The ability to work with patients from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.