Special Education Elementary Teacher (Anticipated Openings 2026-2027)

About Our District

Springfield Public Schools is a cultural gem in Western Massachusetts committed to providing a learning environment that opens the doors of infinite possibilities to our students and staff. We strive to equip each of our approximately 24,000 students with learning experiences that enhance their knowledge and critical thinking skills. As the 3rd largest district in Massachusetts, we celebrate diversity with over 44 languages spoken and over 60 countries represented by both students and staff.

We foster a positive and professional environment where people feel valued, respected, supported, seen, and heard. Our students and staff share their ideas and perspectives, learning from and appreciating each other. The district is committed to equity and excellence.

We empower educators through competitive salaries and benefits, cutting-edge professional development opportunities, and ongoing support including instructional leadership specialists and effective educator coaches. Career advancement and "Grow our Own" educational pipeline programs help staff achieve college degrees or certification pathways.

About the Role

This position could qualify for a Critical Needs differential.

Responsibilities

• Meets and instructs assigned classes in the locations and at times designated.
• Plans a program of study that meets the individual needs, interests, and abilities of students.
• Creates a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interests of students.
• Guides the learning process toward the achievement of established district curriculum goals; establishes and communicates clear objectives for lessons, units, and projects.
• Prepares for assigned classes and shows written evidence of preparation upon request of the immediate supervisor.
• Employs a variety of instructional techniques and media consistent with the physical limitations of the location and the needs of students.
• Implements the district's philosophy of education, instructional goals, and performance expectations through instruction and action.
• Assesses student accomplishments regularly; provides progress reports as required and communicates with parents as necessary.
• Maintains accurate, complete, and correct records as required by law, district policy, and administrative regulations.
• Diagnoses student learning challenges and seeks assistance from district specialists as required.
• Takes necessary precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Follows the district's code of conduct for the classroom and develops fair rules of classroom behavior.
• Plans and supervises assignments for paraprofessionals and provides written evaluations as required.
• Maintains an ongoing program of professional growth that satisfies district and personal expectations.
• Participates in the teacher evaluation process, contributing to a mutual agreement on evaluation results.
• Attends building and district meetings to promote communication and mutual decision-making.
• Attends traditional school-sponsored activities (e.g., Back to School Night, Open House) as agreed upon by the building administrator and faculty.
• Contributes to district and building decisions regarding budget, facilities, curriculum, and staff well-being.
• Strives to maintain and improve professional competence.

Requirements

• Highly qualified with required competency in the content area.
• Appropriate content/program area educator license (Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities) and grade level (PreK-8) licensure from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
• Bachelor's Degree with appropriate license; Master's Degree with appropriate content area license preferred and/or expected within 5 years.