Special Education Teacher - R..S.E. Transition Program

Position: Special Education Teacher - R.I.S.E. Transition Program
Job Title: Special Education Teacher - R.I.S.E. Transition Program

Location: Enfield High School - Enfield Public Schools, Enfield, CT

Job Type: Full-Time

About Us: Enfield Public Schools is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students. We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Special Education Educator to join our team and make a positive impact on the lives of our students.

Position Summary

In this role, the educator provides direct instructional, behavioral, and transitional support to students participating in the Respect, Independence, Support, Empowerment (R.I.S.E.) program-an initiative designed to promote successful reintegration into the general education setting (Enfield High School). The teacher collaborates with multidisciplinary staff, families, and students to ensure individualized, developmentally appropriate, and sustainable transitions that foster independence, confidence, and academic success.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver specialized instruction aligned to students' IEP goals, focusing on skill development essential for reintegration into the Enfield High School environment.
• Support students as they transition into general education classrooms, monitoring progress, adapting strategies, and facilitating communication between educators and support teams.
• Implement and model evidence-based practices that promote self-regulation, executive functioning, social skills, and academic readiness.
• Partner with general education teachers to ensure appropriate accommodations, modifications, and inclusive practices are in place.
• Maintain ongoing documentation, progress monitoring, and data-informed decision making to guide transition planning.
• Foster a supportive, strengths-based environment reflective of the R.I.S.E. values:
  Respect, Independence, Support, and Empowerment.

Best Practices for a Special Education Teacher in a Transition-Focused Role

• Collaborative Transition Planning: Engage students, families, related service providers, and school-based teams to create individualized, realistic, and measurable transition steps.
• Gradual Release of Responsibility: Scaffold student movement into mainstream settings using systematic exposure, guided practice, and structured independence-building opportunities.
• Relationship-Building: Establish strong rapport with students to build trust, motivation, and resilience throughout the transition process.
• Continuous Communication: Maintain clear, proactive communication with receiving teachers and support staff to ensure seamless integration and consistent expectations.
• Progress Monitoring & Reflection: Collect and analyze academic, behavioral, and functional data to adjust supports and measure transition success.
• Strengths-Based Mindset: Prioritize student abilities, interests, and emerging skills to encourage confidence and self-advocacy as students navigate new environments.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field.
• Valid Connecticut teaching certification in Special Education.
• 165 Comprehensive Special Education, PreK-12
• Strong understanding of special education laws and regulations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team.
• Experience working with students with diverse needs is preferred.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• EPS Contracts
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement plan options.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit:

• A cover letter
• Resume
• Three current letters of professional reference
• Proof of valid CT certification
• Transcripts (official transcripts required upon hire)