FTE Long-Term Substitute Special Education Teacher

Position: 1.0 FTE Long-Term Substitute Special Education Teacher (March 2026-June 2026)
SUMMARY:

The Special Education Teacher is to help student learn subject matter and skills, subject to Special Education Laws, that will contribute to their educational development, in consideration of their cognitive learning abilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The essential functions or duties listed below are illustrations of the type of work that is performed and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for by this position. Other duties may be assigned.

* Teaches district-approved curriculum.

* Develops appropriate instructional materials, activities, & lesson plans, with modifications and accommodations appropriate for individual students taking into consideration cognitive levels and age-appropriateness.

* Structures the classroom and establishes and maintains standards of student behavior to achieve an effective learning atmosphere.

* Creates an environment for learning through functional and attractive displays, interest centers and exhibits of student's work.

* Evaluates students' academic and social growth, keeps appropriate records and prepares progress reports.

* Identifies student needs, makes appropriate referrals, and develops and implements individual education plans.

* Participates in planning of curriculum goals and relevant student performance objectives.

* Helps students to develop individual learning goals and objectives.

* Evaluates individual student accomplishment of goals and objectives, records progress, and adjusts individual and group learning activities accordingly.

* Works with parents of individual children to help guide the growth and development of the children.

* Demonstrates an understanding of definitions, etiology, & characteristics of students' disabilities.

* Demonstrates an understanding of Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and Common Core State Standards.

* Adapt the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks as needed.

* Integrate technology within instruction to increase student comprehension and interest.

* Participates in ongoing professional development activities related to student population & certification areas.

* Participates (as needed) to physically and safely support students (e.g. Behavior-preventative, blocking, escorts, restraints; Medical-positioning, lifting, guide/escort).

* Communicates regularly with parents by means of newsletters, notes, phone calls, conferences, etc.

* Is available to students and parents for education-related purposes outside the instructional day.

* Works with specialists, related service providers, staff members, parents and outside persons or agencies to assist students with special problems.

* Plans and coordinates the work of para educators, parents, and volunteers in the classroom and on field trips.

* Properly utilizes and conserves physical facilities, equipment and supplies.

* Assist in the task of operating the school as a community of cooperative and constructive members.

* Assist in the task of operating the school as a community of cooperative and constructive members.

* Maintains an understanding of the philosophies and principles utilized in District-wide programs.

* Follows state and federal special education regulations, as outlined in the IDEA and the requirements set forth in 603 CMR 28.00 which are in addition to, or in some instances clarify or further elaborate, the special education rights and responsibilities set forth in state statute (M.G.L. c. 71B), federal statute (20 U.S.C. §1400 et seq. as amended), and federal regulations (34 CFR §300 et seq.

as amended).

* Follows all standards and indicators to the best of his or her ability, as described in the Reading Public Schools Teacher Assessment Process (TAP).

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Supervises the classroom, students, para educators and parent volunteers.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. The Superintendent may waive or modify the qualification requirements.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

* Ability to apply knowledge of current research and theory in the educational field

* Ability to plan and implement lessons based on district and school objectives and the needs and abilities of students to whom assigned

* Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form

* Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups including staff, parents and the general public

* Ability to read, analyze and interpret professional periodicals and journals, technical procedures and governmental regulations

* Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals

* Ability to use reasoning ability to evaluate information and determine/recommend an appropriate course of action

* Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions

* Ability to use professional literature,…