Special Educator - ESY

Special Educator

Reports to the Principal FLSA Status:
Exempt

Position Objective

The Special Educator provides comprehensive special education services, collaborating with teachers, families, students, and professional staff. In accordance with state and federal law, this role case manages, coordinates, and oversees effective interventions for students with IEPs, 504 Plans, and EST/MTSS plans. The position emphasizes literacy, math, and behavior support to ensure students meet Vermont learning expectations within the least restrictive environment (LRE).

The Special Educator develops, implements, and evaluates IEPs, behavior plans, and specialized academic instruction, and conducts assessments with support from district specialists and the Director of Student Support Services.

• Students with IEPs, 504 Plans, and EST/MTSS plans require academic, behavioral, and social-emotional supports.
• Students assigned based on individualized needs and case management requirements.

Planning and Preparation

• Integrate research-based practices in literacy, math, behavior management, and special education into individualized instruction.
• Serve as liaison to ensure smooth transitions for students within and between schools.
• Use assessment data to collaboratively develop standards-based IEPs, 504 Plans, EST interventions, and remedial services.
• Coordinate services with internal and external specialists and agencies.
• Interpret and communicate research in literacy and math to improve classroom instruction.
• Assist in evaluating program effectiveness for literacy, math, and behavioral initiatives.
• Plan, monitor, and communicate Extended School Year (ESY) services to staff and families.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers to modify instruction, materials, accommodations, and behavior strategies.
• Administer and coordinate comprehensive student assessments in academic, behavioral, and developmental domains.
• Interpret educational and clinical findings to determine eligibility and monitor student progress.

Learning Environment

• Establish and maintain a respectful, inclusive, and trauma-informed classroom environment.
• Promote integration of students into general education settings consistent with LRE principles.
• Coordinate and supervise assigned para educators.
• Develop, implement, and monitor behavior intervention and crisis prevention plans.
• Monitor and proactively address disruptive or unsafe behaviors.
• Identify and implement assistive technology and adaptive systems to enhance learning.
• Maintain a safe environment for students, staff, and materials.

Instruction

• Provide direct academic instruction and social skills training individually and in groups.
• Implement evidence-based literacy and math interventions, including validated remedial and technology-based programs.
• Model and co-teach instructional strategies with classroom teachers.
• Use flexible grouping and progress monitoring to adjust instruction based on student performance.
• Teach socially appropriate behavior using positive reinforcement and behavior modification techniques.
• Select developmentally appropriate materials to enhance student engagement and self-efficacy.
• Provide timely feedback to students, families, and staff on progress and instructional strategies.

Collaboration and Professional Practice

• Observe classroom instruction and student interactions to assess program effectiveness.
• Train and consult with teachers and para educators on disabilities, interventions, assessment, and behavior management.
• Assist in planning, implementing, and evaluating district special education programs.
• Maintain accurate, confidential student records in compliance with legal requirements.
• Engage families as partners in literacy, math, and behavioral development.
• Participate in EST/MTSS processes and crisis prevention/intervention as necessary.
• Attend and contribute to school and district meetings, committees, and professional development.
• Stay current with best practices, research, and Vermont and federal special education law.
• Serve as a resource and instructional leader for staff.
• Uphold district policies and advocate for student-centered decisions.

Supervision

• Reports to and is evaluated by the School Principal, with input from the Director of Student Support Services and/or designee.
• Receives technical guidance from the Director of Student Support Services in consultation with the Director of Curriculum.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Train, assign, and direct activities of assigned para educators.
• Provide input for para educator evaluation, hiring, and continued employment decisions.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Master's degree in Special Education or related field preferred (Bachelor's with relevant experience acceptable).
• 3–4 years of relevant experience preferred.
• Knowledge of Vermont Special Education Law preferred.
• Experience in psycho-educational environments and understanding of social-emotional functioning preferred.
• Knowledge of human development, disabilities, literacy,…