Lead Special Education Teacher and Program Liaison SAIL; Social, Academic Inclusive Learning

Lead Special Education Teacher and Program Liaison for SAIL (Social, Academic, & Inclusive Learning)

Starting Date: Aug 31, 2026

Lead Special Education Teacher and Program Liaison for SAIL (Social, Academic, & Inclusive Learning)

Norman E Day Elementary School Grades 3-5

The Lead Teacher and Program Liaison for SAIL (Social, Academic, Inclusive, Learning) at the Norman E Day Elementary School in Westford will be responsible for leading and teaching in this newly created program at the 3-5 level. SAIL is a separate program designed to teach and support our students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) with identified social, emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs.

The core function of the SAIL teacher is to explicitly teach academic and social‑emotional learning lessons to students using evidence‑based strategies such as restorative practices or social‑emotional learning circles. Mostly working in a small group setting, the SAIL teacher will help students learn, practice, and demonstrate social‑emotional skills. The SAIL teacher will also meet with general education teachers, administrators, parents, and family unit members to discuss students’ individual needs and develop intervention plans.

• Instructional Delivery:
  Deliver dynamic and inclusive instruction using a variety of teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities.
• Individualized Education Programs (IEPs):
  Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement comprehensive IEPs for each student, ensuring educational goals are aligned with transition objectives.
• Social Emotional Learning:
  Provide hands‑on instruction and support in essential SEL areas such as helping students foster independence and self‑sufficiency.
• Recognize and respond to individual student mental health needs and assist students and families in supporting their wellness.
• Create and implement behavior programs and teach necessary skills for self‑regulation.
• Knowledge of de‑escalation strategies and techniques to adjust approach with students exhibiting dysregulated behavior.
• Assessment and Progress Monitoring:
  Conduct ongoing assessment and progress monitoring to track student growth and adjust instructional strategies accordingly, maintaining accurate records and documentation of student performance.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  Collaborate effectively with colleagues, parents/guardians, and community stakeholders to support student success, participating in team meetings, parent conferences, and community outreach initiatives as needed.
• Collaborate with related service providers, including Educational Support Professionals (ESPs), specialists, administrators, and general education teachers.
• Evaluate, observe, and recommend students throughout the district for placement in SAIL.
• Assist in hiring and supervising Educational Support Professionals (ESPs) for the program.

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education (Master’s degree preferred).
• Valid teaching certification/license in Special Education.
• Previous experience working with students with diagnosed SEL and mental health related disabilities in an educational setting.
• Strong understanding of social emotional learning and teaching practices.
• Knowledge of evidence-based instructional practices and accommodations for students with diverse learning needs.
• Training in evidence-based de‑escalation strategies and techniques (preferred).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a fast‑paced environment.