Pre-K Special Education Teacher, Special Purpose Classrooms SY

Position: Pre-K Special Education Teacher, Special Purpose Classrooms - Multiple Openings, 26-27 SY

Pre-K Special Education Teacher, Special Purpose Classrooms
- Multiple Openings, 26-27 SY

Portland Public Schools Pre-K
- Portland, Maine Open in Google Maps

Job Details Job : 5689371
Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled
Posted: May 04, 2026 7:00 PM (UTC)

Job Description
TITLE: Pre-K Special Education Teacher, Special Purpose - Multiple Openings, 26-27 SY POSITION OVERVIEW Portland Public Schools seeks skilled, compassionate, and highly structured Special Education Teachers to lead Special Purpose Pre-K classrooms serving students whose Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) require a more intensive, specialized setting. These classrooms are designed to provide intensive, individualized support within a low student-to-staff ratio environment, addressing the developmental, behavioral, communication, and learning needs of young children with disabilities.

In this role, the teacher is responsible for designing and implementing individualized and group instruction that address goals listed on student's Individual Education Programs (IEP's), creating a structured and predictable classroom environment, and leading a team of Education Technicians. This role also serves as the primary point person and first line of support for students, staff, and families, ensuring that all services are delivered in alignment with IEPs and fostering meaningful inclusion opportunities when appropriate.

The teacher works in close partnership with support staff and district specialists to ensure continuity of services and alignment of practices across settings.

NOTE:

This posting represents multiple openings. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide specially designed instruction aligned with students' IEPs in a special purpose Pre-K classroom
• Develop and implement individualized and small-group instruction targeting functional, developmental, communication, social-emotional, and early academic skills in alignment with student's IEP goals
• Create and maintain a structured, predictable, and supportive classroom environment that promotes engagement, independence, and positive behavior
• Design and implement proactive behavioral supports and individualized intervention plans as needed
• Lead, supervise, and support Education Technicians in implementing instructional and behavioral programming with fidelity
• Serve as the primary point of contact and first line of support for classroom staff, students, and families
• Collaborate with related service providers (e.g. speech/language, occupational therapy, physical therapy) to ensure integrated service delivery throughout the school day
• Facilitate and support inclusion opportunities in general education Pre-K settings, as appropriate to student needs
• Partner with related service providers and other specialists to ensure consistency and alignment of instructional strategies and supports
• Monitor and document student progress; use data to inform instructional decisions and IEP development
• Maintain all required documentation and ensure compliance with timelines and procedures in alignment with IDEA and state regulations
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with families, recognizing them as essential partners in their child's education
• Communicate regularly and effectively with families, team members, and administrators

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Strong background in early childhood development and early learning standards
• Deep understanding of the needs of young children with significant developmental and behavioral challenges
• Experience designing and implementing structured classroom systems (e.g., visual supports, routines, and behavior systems)
• Knowledge of evidence-based practices for early childhood special education, including inclusive practices and behavioral supports
• Ability to lead, coach, and supervise paraprofessional staff effectively
• Strong collaboration, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Commitment to equitable, inclusive, and culturally responsive practices
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Knowledge and understanding of dual language learners and supporting young children from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds

EDUCA…