Job Details

Adaptive Physical Education Teacher

Under the direction of the school principal and Special Education administration, the Adaptive Physical Education (APE) Teacher plans and provides appropriate physical education and health instruction for students with disabilities. The APE Teacher creates developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and individualized learning experiences aligned with the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) and students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

The APE Teacher fosters an environment that promotes physical development, social-emotional growth, health awareness, and equitable access to physical education for all students. Responsibilities include collaboration with general education physical education teachers, related service providers, families, and community partners; monitoring student progress; maintaining accurate documentation; and ensuring student safety during instruction. The APE Teacher may serve as an itinerant teacher across multiple school sites.

Essential Tasks

• Plans, implements, and evaluates adaptive physical education and health programs that meet the needs, interests, and abilities of students with disabilities.
• Provides direct instruction in adaptive and inclusive physical education settings in accordance with assigned schedules.
• Designs instruction aligned with the Virginia Standards of Learning and students' IEP goals and objectives.
• Modifies equipment, rules, activities, and instructional strategies to ensure student access, safety, and participation.
• Collaborates with general education physical education teachers to support inclusion opportunities and shared instructional practices.
• Utilizes developmentally appropriate instructional methods that support motor development, physical fitness, health education, and social skills.
• Maintains safe learning environments and takes all necessary precautions to protect students, equipment, and facilities.
• Assesses student performance and documents progress toward IEP goals.
• Communicates effectively with parents/guardians and collaborates with members of the IEP team.
• Demonstrates trauma-informed practices and professional responsibility.
• Travels between assigned school sites as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of adaptive physical education principles and motor development.
• Ability to adapt activities and equipment for students with disabilities.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices.
• Ability to manage behavior and ensure student safety.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.

Education and Experience

Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education, Adapted Physical Education, Special Education, or a related field. Virginia teaching license with an endorsement in Adapted Physical Education, Health and Physical Education, or eligible related endorsement required. Experience working with students with disabilities preferred.

Physical Requirements

Requires standing, walking, lifting, bending, and active participation in physical activities. Ability to lift up to 20 pounds with or without accommodations.

Work Environment

Work is performed in gymnasiums, outdoor activity areas, and school facilities. May involve exposure to varying weather conditions and moderate to high noise levels.

RCPS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Hayley Poland Title IX Coordinator (540) 853-1393.