Special Education Lead Teacher

Position

Special Education Lead Teacher at RHS

Ridgewood Public Schools is seeking a High School Special Education Lead Teacher. The ideal candidate will:

• Facilitate the effective and efficient operation of the high school special education program.
• Support building administration with the coordination and implementation of special education services.
• Foster collaboration among special education staff, Child Study Team members, and related service providers.
• Assist with program implementation, scheduling, and day-to-day operational needs.
• Exhibit excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

August 26, 2026-June 30, 2027

Full-time, permanent position, medical benefits and pension. Salary range is $70,062-$125,242, commensurate with education and experience as per negotiated contract.

The Ridgewood Public School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage diverse applicants.

• Possess or be eligible for NJDOE instructional certification with a Teacher of the Handicapped or Teacher of Students with Disabilities endorsement;
  Supervisor certification preferred.
• Experience working within a high school special education department, preferably at Ridgewood High School.
• Provide ongoing consultation to special and general education personnel to support compliance with federal and state special education regulations.
• Collaborate with teaching staff and Child Study Team members to assess student needs and support the implementation of instructional goals and accommodations.
• Assist with the development of the IEP meeting calendar, including assigning teachers to meetings.
• Attend weekly Child Study Team meetings to support IEP development and implementation.
• Collaborate with department supervisors, including Special Education, to enhance communication among supervisors, building administrators, teaching staff, and the Special Programs Department.
• Participate in the interview process for special education teachers and Child Study Team members as vacancies arise.
• Maintain communication with the middle school lead teacher to support continuity of programming and share important dates and information with special education staff.
• Coordinate common planning time and coverage for teacher training and professional learning opportunities.
• Oversee student access to instructional technology and digital platforms as needed.
• Support staff in reviewing student data to inform instructional planning and decision-making.
• Provide guidance and support in the development of IEP goals and objectives (G/O) and Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFPs).
• Support the implementation and ongoing operation of the PREP program at Ridgewood High School.
• Coordinate paraprofessional schedules to ensure appropriate student coverage and assist with onboarding and ongoing support.
• Facilitate professional learning related to special education procedures, instructional strategies, and best practices.
• Ensure instructional materials and resources are available to support students with disabilities.
• Serve as a liaison among students, families, school staff, and the Special Programs Department regarding special education programming.
• Collaborate with students, families, and staff to support successful transitions and continuity of services.
• Coordinate and facilitate student and family tours as needed.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.