Berrien Springs Public Schools

Berrien Springs Special Education Department- Deaf/Hard of Hearing Teacher (K-12)

Berrien Springs, MI

We Inspire:

Berrien Springs Public Schools is a premier district that seeks to inspire students to become self-directed learners in an environment that promotes collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking skills. We strive to provide students with real-world problem solving and experiential learning with individualized options. We believe students are inspired to learn when they have opportunities to be involved in their learning process.

Who We Are:

Together, inspire each student to think, learn, achieve, and care in a global community. At Berrien Springs Public Schools, we strive to serve the needs of all student learners while seeking ways for students to reach their full potential. Our mission is to involve all stakeholders in the educational process. We have a strong focus on what we call "The Shamrock Way." The Shamrock Way is offering personalized learning opportunities where students can learn and grow in a caring environment. BSPS services a highly diverse student population that makes our district environment rich with culture, talents, interests, abilities, skills, and needs. Our highly qualified staff develops students to be self-directed and lifelong learners, who demonstrate personal competencies in academic achievement, technology, and citizenship.

The Role:

We continue to have big aspirations and expectations as we grow our team. We need to add the right people to help us reach our goals. As a Deaf/hard of hearing teacher you will be responsible for creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment that meets the academic, social, and emotional needs of students with hearing loss. This role involves instructional planning, effective classroom management, student assessment, strong communication with stakeholders, and adherence to school and district policies. Additionally, knowledge of language development, audiological processes, hearing technology, and a strong basis in auditory oral education is a must. The teacher will foster student growth through high-quality instruction, collaboration with colleagues, and professional development.

Competencies for a Deaf/Hard of Hearing Teacher:

Instructional Planning and Delivery

Effective teaching begins with intentional planning and well-structured lessons. Educators must design instruction that accommodates diverse student needs, learning styles, and interests. By utilizing research-based strategies, differentiated instruction, and engaging activities, teachers ensure that all students have access to meaningful learning experiences. The ability to integrate technology effectively into the curriculum enhances engagement and promotes student success in a digital world. Teachers must be proficient in a variety of web-based programs and have the ability to effectively utilize technology. Additionally, delivery models within the special education program may include both co-teaching (push-in) models alongside traditional self-contained classroom (pull-out) programming.

Classroom Management and Student Engagement

A well-managed classroom fosters an environment where students feel safe, respected, and motivated to learn. Setting clear behavioral expectations and reinforcing positive interactions help maintain an orderly learning space. Teachers must establish routines that support student accountability while also fostering a sense of curiosity and enthusiasm. By creating a student-centered environment, educators encourage active participation, collaboration, and personal growth. Educators should be proficient in the implementation of PBIS and TCI techniques to promote positive classroom culture and climate.

Assessment and Student Growth

Assessing student learning is a critical component of effective instruction. Educators must implement various assessment strategies, including formative and summative evaluations, to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly. By analyzing data from assessments, teachers can identify areas where students need additional support or enrichment. Additionally, administering standardized assessments ensures that student achievement aligns with district and state benchmarks. Documentation regarding progress monitoring must be maintained and reported to stakeholders.

Communication and Collaboration

Strong communication and collaboration are essential for fostering positive relationships among students, parents, colleagues, and administrators. Regular engagement with parents through conferences, reports, and open dialogue helps ensure student success. Additionally, working alongside fellow educators and support staff allows for a holistic approach to addressing students’ academic, social, and emotional needs. By actively participating in professional learning communities, educators enhance their instructional practices and contribute to a collaborative school culture. This position will work closely with general education teaching staff through co-teaching, along with support staff such as paraprofessionals providing personal care services to students with defined personal care needs. By actively participating in professional learning communities, educators enhance their instructional practices and contribute to a collaborative school culture.

School and District Responsibilities

Teachers play a vital role in upholding the mission and goals of the school district. By aligning instruction with district standards and philosophies, educators contribute to a cohesive and effective learning environment. Participation in staff meetings, committees, and professional development opportunities demonstrates a commitment to ongoing growth and improvement. Additionally, managing classroom resources, maintaining inventories, and students records is required.

Why You Will Love This Role:

As a member of our growing professional learning team, you’ll not only drive the change in our district but you will be part of an innovative team of committed colleagues. You will always focus on improving services to our clients - our students and their families. Your role requires cross-functional collaboration at all levels with other departments, districts, and support agencies. Your efforts will result in meaningful educational opportunities for all students. Exciting opportunities lie ahead, not only for our students but for your own personal and professional growth, too.

What We’ll Love About You

You have 5+ years of classroom experience preferred with experience working with an auditory-oral deaf/hard hearing program. A Michigan Elementary Certificate with a Deaf/hard of hearing (SL) endorsement is required, or candidates must demonstrate the ability to obtain the certification. You have had the opportunity to work with diverse departments and leaders to attain quality educational environments for students. You are a data-oriented person that loves to prototype or refine programs, always seeking efficiency and effectiveness. You connect and build relationships in an authentic and personalized way with all stakeholders to come to the best solution; not necessarily yours. You are excited to collaborate with your team, as well as others to create a rich environment and meaningful experience for all students.

What You’ll Get Out of This Role:

A varied and challenging role in an innovative hybrid organization
A robust benefits package including the ability to earn longevity pay after five years of employment, option to earn merit pay as well as health insurance and life insurance
Development and further training opportunities for shaping and realizing your professional goals
Exceptional colleagues who challenge each other, care about you and support your efforts
You are signing up for a complex job. Leading in education is not easy, but you will be working with a top-notch team that is leading in innovation and is following a mission to add value to all students through a student-centered learning approach.
Berrien Springs Public Schools – Ranked #1 in Michigan for a 212% increase in student enrollment.

Position Title: Berrien Springs D/hh Teacher

Reports To: Building Principal and Special Education Director/Coordinator

Salary: BA Scale $ 46,483 - $75,469 or MA Scale $48,593 - $86,106 based on experience

Length of Contract: 185 days

Location: Sylvester Elementary/Berrien Springs Middle School

Start Date: August, 2025 New staff orientation tbd

Deadline to apply: May 2, 2025

Interested candidates may apply online at: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/1005

Alternatively, applications may be submitted to:

Jennifer Thies, Director of Human Resources

Berrien Springs Public Schools

P.O. Box 130

Berrien Springs, MI 49103

Email: jthies@homeoftheshamrocks.org

The Berrien Springs Public Schools Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and transgender identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic, (collectively, "Protected Classes") in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities.

Special Education - Deaf/Hard of Hearing Teacher