Job Description

For over 30 years, Gersh Autism has empowered students on the autism spectrum to reach their full potential. Serving individuals aged 5-21 across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our network of K-12 schools provides personalized education tailored to each student’s unique learning style. We offer comprehensive therapeutic services—speech, physical, occupational therapy, and more—along with vocational training for older students. Our dedicated team collaborates with families to ensure academic, social, and emotional growth, preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

At Gersh Autism, we are committed to helping individuals on the autism spectrum lead fulfilling, independent lives.

The Instructional Coach at Gersh Autism Academy plays a critical role in supporting the professional growth of educators and enhancing instructional practices aligned with the Academy’s ABA-based educational model. This role focuses on mentoring, modeling, and coaching teachers and support staff to ensure high-quality, individualized instruction for students with autism. This position is located at our new Bronx school.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with teachers to develop and implement effective instructional strategies tailored to students with autism.
• Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and support to teachers, teacher assistants, and behavior technicians.
• Model best practices in classroom management, ABA techniques, and differentiated instruction.
• Conduct classroom observations and provide actionable feedback to improve teaching effectiveness.
• Facilitate professional development workshops and training sessions aligned with Gersh’s educational philosophy.
• Support curriculum development and instructional planning to meet student goals and academic standards.
• Partner with administrators, BCBAs, mental health counselors, and related service providers to ensure cohesive support for students.
• Assist in onboarding and mentoring new instructional staff.
• Maintain documentation of coaching activities and progress toward instructional goals.
• Other responsibilities as assigned by administration.

Specialized Responsibilities

• PowerSchool: Train staff on how to enter student goals, complete report cards, and update progress marks.
• Assessment: Teach staff how to conduct curriculum-based assessments, including ABLLS, AFLS, and Brigance.
• Report Writing: Guide staff through the process of preparing 45-day reviews and annual reviews.
• Classroom Support: Coach staff on effective classroom management, classroom setup, and implementation of generalized instruction.
• Program Book Development: Support staff in creating and executing individualized program books.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in special education and ABA-based instruction, particularly with students on the autism spectrum.
• NYS Certification in Special Education or a related area (preferred but not required).
• Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in special education settings, preferably with students on the autism spectrum.
• Strong knowledge of ABA principles and experience in ABA-based settings.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
• Ability to coach and mentor staff with empathy and professionalism.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday
• Ability to lift (at least 50-65 pounds), assist, and/or physically support students, which may include lifting or guiding students of varying sizes
• Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety (per CPI training)
• Ability to remove oneself and/or others from unsafe situations quickly
• Ability to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environment
• Ability to multi-task and shift priorities quickly
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making, particularly in high-pressure or safety-sensitive situations
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional relationships
• Ability to perform duties under stress, including during behavioral escalations

Benefits for Full Time Employees

Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to your personal and professional growth.

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k matching)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development

Compensation range includes base and KRA bonus eligibility