About DDI

With nearly 65 years of service, DDI provides a full continuum of care -- from early intervention to residential, day habilitation, and vocational programs -- for over 1,600 children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. DDI is driven by a dedicated staff and a belief in every individual's potential.

Our Purpose

We help children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities experience personal growth and fulfillment.

Our Core Values

Integrity: We adhere to moral and ethical principles

Dignity: We treat each other as being worthy of honor and respect

Compassion: We act with caring and kindness

Teamwork: We work together to achieve common goals

Shift Available: Monday through Friday, 8 am - 3 pm
Salary: $42,00.00 - $55,000.00/year

What you'll do at DDI: 

• Conducts art classes to all classrooms as assigned and scheduled.  May be required to travel to multiple DDI locations to conduct classes.
• Independently develops and implements curriculum consistent with the NYS requirements for Art.
• Develops and implements student art assessments consistent with NYS requirements for Art.
• Prepares session notes and plans and implements art sessions according to program policies and procedures. Works collaboratively with classroom staff using thematic units.   
• Prepares IEP goals consistent with the Learning Standards. 
• Documents all sessions according to procedures established by the program.
• Communicates with the parents in the program regarding progress of students.  Communications shall be by flyer, newsletter, letter to parents, attendance at parent meetings, etc at intervals prescribed by the program.   
• Attends and successfully completes all required trainings and in-services.  Presents and teaches in-services to as requested.  
• Manages materials, supplies and equipment necessary to proper art instruction.  Ensures that materials, supplies and equipment are available as necessary and properly are used.
• Facilitates and is responsible for displaying student artwork throughout the respective classrooms and schools.  Expected to lead and manage DDI-related art projects as requested.
• Creates and maintains bulletin boards or program displays as assigned.
• Creates art instructional activity for special instructional purposes or for specific students as needed (i.e., art activities to support social skill or thematic unit, or for use as reinforcement).  
• Works with individual students as needed to maintain ratio. 
• Provides a push in service and will not be assigned a specific classroom, unless advised by a supervisor to use a particular location
• Collaborates with the other Therapists (ST, OT, PT, phys Ed, Music, Technology) routinely to facilitate cooperative learning and building on other skills. 
• Complies with policies contained in the Children’s Day Program Handbook for Staff.
• Assists with bus duty, lunch coverage, committees for building climate/staff morale and graduation and other duties as assigned.  
• Assures that seasonal decorations are displayed in the program and /or site.

What you bring to DDI: 

• Must possess a Bachelor's or Master's Degree and NYS Certification in Art.
• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is preferred.
• Ability to work with individuals with developmental disabilities is required.
• Must possess creative arts skills and ability to properly use basic and readily available materials. 
• Must possess good interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.

What you must be able to do: 

• Must be able to modify the area to secure the safety of the children i.e. move/push tables and other heavy objects up to 20 lbs
• Must be able to lift/move 20 lbs (mats)
• Must be able to run after student up to 500 feet
• Must be able to run to a classroom in need up to 500 feet
• Must be able to kneel, twist and bend
• Must be able to respond to fire alarms

What DDI can offer you:

• The ability to make a difference in the lives of the individuals we support
• Generous paid time off
• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement and more! 

DDI is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees without regard to actual or perceived race, color, sex, pregnancy, reproductive decision making, gender expression or identity, national origin, disability, military status, creed, religion, age, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, status as a victim of domestic violence or any other group protected by federal, state or local law. We are committed to creating a deep sense of belonging and a culture where all applicants and employees feel welcomed, valued and respected. We are people inspired by purpose. 

Salary : $4,200 - $55,000