High School Special Education Teacher

Duties

• Meets and instructs assigned classes in the locations and at times designated.
• Plans a program of study that, as much as possible, meets the individual needs, interests, and abilities of the students.
• Creates a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interests of the students.
• Guides the learning process toward the achievement of established district curriculum goals, establishes and communicates clear objectives to the students for all lessons, units and projects.
• Prepares for classes assigned and provides written evidence of preparation upon request of the immediate supervisor as required by the teachers’ contract.
• Employs a variety of instructional techniques and instructional media, consistent with the physical limitations of the location and the needs of the students.
• Strives to implement the district’s philosophy of education, instructional goals and objectives and performance expectations.
• Assesses the accomplishments of students on a regular basis; provides progress reports as required and communicates with parents when deemed necessary.
• Maintains accurate, complete, and correct records as required by law, district policy and administrative regulations.
• Diagnoses the learning challenges of students on a regular basis, seeking the assistance of district specialists as needed.
• Takes all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials and facilities.
• Follows the SPS code of conduct for the classroom which is consistent with established administrative policies and develops rules of classroom behavior that are enforced fairly.
• Plans and supervises assignments for paraprofessionals and provides written evaluations as required.
• Maintains an ongoing program of professional growth that satisfies district requirements and personal expectations as a professional.
• Participates in the contractually‑approved teacher evaluation process, contributing to a mutual agreement concerning the results of that evaluation.
• Attends building and district meetings to promote communication and mutual decision‑making among staff; meetings are held during the extended day.
• Attends traditional school‑sponsored activities (e.g., Back to School Night, Open House, programs, activities) as agreed upon by the building administrator and faculty.
• Contributes to decisions regarding budget, facilities, curriculum and personal well‑being made by the district and building.
• Strives to maintain and improve professional competence.

• Highly qualified with required competency in the content area.
• Appropriate content/program area educator license (Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities) and grade‑level (5–12) licensure from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
• Bachelor’s Degree with appropriate license, or
• Master’s Degree with appropriate content area license preferred and/or expected within five years.

We offer competitive salaries and benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans, and numerous professional development opportunities tailored to staff needs.

The Springfield Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related conditions, ancestry, age, disability or military service, as defined by state and federal laws. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal‑opportunity investigation.

Springfield Public Schools is an equal‑opportunity employer. No workplace discrimination on the basis of sex or any other protected class is tolerated.