What are the responsibilities and job description for the Intensive Needs Special Education Teacher position at Portsmouth School Department?
Position: Intensive Needs Special Education Teacher
Position Purpose
Under the supervision of the School Principal and in coordination with Student Services, the Intensive Needs Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing high-quality, individualized instruction and support for students with intensive and complex special education needs. This includes students with Autism Spectrum Disorders, significant cognitive and developmental disabilities, and behavioral or emotional challenges. The teacher will support growth in academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and daily living skills, while fostering a safe, structured, and inclusive learning environment.
Essential Responsibilities
Conduct comprehensive assessments and use data to develop and implement effective Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs), and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).
Provide direct, intensive instruction in academics, communication, social thinking, functional skills, and behavior regulation, including evidence-based strategies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and structured teaching models.
Collaborate with related service providers, general education staff, behavior specialists, school counselors, and outside agencies (e.g., DCYF, mental health providers, developmental services) to ensure cohesive, wraparound support.
Scaffold, differentiate, and adapt curriculum to meet individual student needs and IEP goals using a variety of instructional techniques and assistive technologies.
Create opportunities for meaningful inclusion in general education classrooms and school-wide activities.
Promote positive, trauma-informed classroom culture that emphasizes predictability, structure, and emotional safety.
Monitor student progress and maintain accurate documentation of instruction, behavior, evaluations, data collection, and reporting in compliance with federal and state regulations.
Provide professional guidance and modeling for paraeducators working within the program, including in-service training and support in areas such as communication systems (AAC), safety protocols, and skill development.
Serve as the case manager and liaison for a caseload of students, facilitating IEP meetings, maintaining communication with families, and collaborating with team members to ensure student success.
Build strong relationships with families, maintain ongoing home-school communication, and help families navigate systems and access services.
Remain current on research-based practices for students with intensive needs through professional development, certification maintenance, and engagement in professional networks.
Qualifications
Valid New Hampshire Certification in Special Education or eligibility for such certification. Experience or sub-specaility as a Teacher of Students with Intensive needs is a plus
Demonstrated experience working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorders and/or intensive behavioral and learning needs.
Strong understanding of special education law, IEP development, and best practices in inclusive education.
Proficient in behavior management, crisis prevention and intervention, and functional communication support (including AAC).
Excellent organizational, collaboration, and communication skills.
Commitment to equity, high expectations for all students, and inclusive educational practices.
Education:
- Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
- Masters Degree in Special Education.
Experience:
- Successful prior experience is a must
- Succesful or sub-specaility as a Teacher of Students with Intensive Needs is a plus
Pay Rate: Follow Negotiated Pay Rate (See Teacher's Agreement)
