Special Education Teacher

Job Title: Special Education Teacher
Location: Amesbury, MA
Reports to: School Principal / Director of Special Education
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Overview

The School seeks a dedicated and compassionate Special Education Teacher to support students with diverse learning needs. The ideal candidate will provide individualized instruction, develop specialized programs, and collaborate with staff and families to ensure all students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Key Responsibilities

Instruction and Curriculum Development

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.
• Provide differentiated instruction in a variety of settings, including pull-out, inclusion, and small-group environments.
• Modify and adapt curriculum materials and teaching methods to address student learning styles and abilities.

Collaboration and Teamwork

• Work closely with general education teachers to co-teach and support inclusive practices in the classroom.
• Partner with paraprofessionals, specialists, and support staff to deliver comprehensive services for students.
• Participate in IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and professional development sessions.

Assessment and Progress Monitoring

• Assess student needs using formal and informal evaluation tools.
• Track student progress, maintain accurate records, and regularly update IEP goals and objectives.
• Use data to guide instructional decisions and report progress to families and stakeholders.

Behavioral and Social-Emotional Support

• Implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and strategies to promote positive behaviors and support emotional regulation.
• Foster a supportive, inclusive classroom environment that encourages student confidence and independence.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with state and federal special education laws, including IDEA and Section 504.
• Prepare required documentation, reports, and assessments in a timely manner.

Qualifications

Education and Certification

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Valid Massachusetts teaching license in Special Education (moderate or severe disabilities, as applicable).
• SEI endorsement preferred or willingness to obtain.

Experience and Skills

• Previous experience working with students with diverse learning needs, preferably in an elementary school setting.
• Strong knowledge of instructional strategies, accommodations, and assistive technologies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, staff, and families.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move around the classroom and school grounds.
• Occasional lifting of equipment or materials (up to 25 pounds).