SYVan Sickle Academy Middle School Special Education Teacher

SY26-27 Van Sickle Academy Middle School Special Education Teacher

Location: Van Sickle Academy – Springfield, Massachusetts

Job : 5481003

Posted: Dec 22, 2025 5:00 AM (UTC)

Final date to receive applications: Sep 30, 2026 11:59 PM (Eastern Standard Time)

Starting Date: To Be Determined (Full Time)

Grade Level: 6-8

Base Salary: Up to $96,864.45; commensurate with experience

Role Overview

Educators in the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership are responsible for ensuring that students have access to strong instruction, experience a deep sense of belonging in school, and are prepared for meaningful academic and life opportunities. SEZP educators serve as instructors, mentors, and collaborators. They contribute to school communities that value strong relationships, clear expectations, and continuous improvement—for students and for adults.

• Access to High-Quality Learning
  • Deliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction using research-based curriculum and effective instructional strategies.
  • Ensure all students can access grade‑level content through thoughtful lesson design, scaffolding, and embedded supports.
  • Use student data and formative assessment to adjust instruction and promote academic growth.
• Belonging and School Community
  • Build strong, trusting relationships with students grounded in consistency, respect, and high expectations.
  • Contribute positively to a school culture where students feel known, supported, and accountable.
  • Collaborate closely with colleagues, including participation in co‑teaching teams and professional learning communities.
  • Engage families as partners through regular communication and shared problem‑solving.
• Opportunity and Growth
  • Support students in developing the skills, habits, and confidence needed for success in high school and beyond.
  • Participate actively in professional learning, coaching, and feedback cycles.
  • Contribute to the development of future educators by modeling strong practice, hosting residents or student teachers when applicable, and supporting a culture of adult learning.
• Additional Responsibilities
  • Uphold school‑wide expectations related to curriculum, assessment, and professional conduct.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal.

• Experience teaching at the middle or high school level.
• Valid Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education license in the appropriate subject and grade level (Moderate Disabilities) – required. Candidates not yet licensed may be eligible for a licensure waiver and are encouraged to apply.
• Demonstrated ability to support a range of learners through strong instruction and relationship‑building.
• Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency – preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree – required.

If you meet many—but not all—of the qualifications above, SEZP encourages you to apply.

Selected educators in SEZP are eligible for the same competitive benefits as Educators in Springfield Public Schools. Educators may also be eligible for the following recruitment incentives, which may be offered individually:

• Signing bonus in addition to base salary.
• Relocation award for candidates from regions beyond western Massachusetts.

SEZP is a collaboration between Springfield Public Schools (SPS), the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), and the Springfield Education Association (SEA). Its goal is to improve the longitudinal life outcomes of more than 2,500 students in 8 middle schools by combining district‑based public education with the flexibility of autonomous school models while maintaining accountability for student learning and growth.

Core values:

• Access: Expanding access to strong learning environments, skilled mentors, and clear pathways for students and educators.
• Belonging: Building communities where people are known, supported, and accountable to one another.
• Opportunity: Preparing students and educators to learn, lead, and thrive over time.

The Springfield Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color,…