Special Education Resource Teachers - 2026/2027 SY

Position Summary

Danbury Public Schools is seeking a Special Education Resource Teacher to provide specialized instruction and support to students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in both pull-out and push-in settings.

Responsibilities

• Planning and Preparation

• Developing short- and long-range instructional plans aligned with curriculum standards, IEP goals, and student needs
• Designing instruction based on knowledge of student learning differences, disability categories, and evidence-based practices
• Implementing accommodations, modifications, and specialized instruction across academic, social, behavioral, and functional domains
• Understanding and applying current federal and state special education laws, including LRE, due process, discipline, assessment, and transition planning
• Using assessment data to inform instruction and monitor student progress
• Incorporating assistive technology, adaptive materials, and specialized supports to enhance student access and independence
• Planning and participating in IEP meetings, parent conferences, and multidisciplinary team meetings
• Maintaining and organizing instructional materials, curriculum resources, and assistive technology tools

• Learning Environment

• Fostering a structured, inclusive, and supportive learning environment that promotes engagement and positive behavior
• Establishing a safe, respectful, and academically focused classroom culture with high expectations for all students
• Implementing effective classroom management strategies, including behavior supports, de-escalation techniques, and crisis prevention as needed
• Conducting functional behavioral assessments and supporting behavior intervention planning
• Designing routines, schedules, and transitions that support student independence and success
• Supervising and collaborating with paraprofessionals to support instruction and student needs
• Collaborating with general education staff and related service providers to ensure consistent supports and accommodations
• Integrating technology to support instruction, communication, and behavior management

• Instruction and Assessment

• Delivering specialized instruction in academic, social, behavioral, and functional skill areas
• Adapting curriculum, materials, and instructional methods to meet diverse learner needs
• Using a variety of instructional strategies to promote critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Maximizing instructional time and integrating related services into classroom instruction
• Implementing progress monitoring systems and using data to guide instructional decisions
• Administering and interpreting formal and informal assessments to inform instruction and IEP development
• Implementing accommodations and modifications for classroom, district, and state assessments
• Serving as a Response to Intervention (RTI) and multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) facilitator as applicable
• Utilizing digital platforms for documentation, progress monitoring, and communication

• Professional Responsibilities

• Communicating regularly with families regarding student progress in a culturally responsive manner
• Participating in IEP meetings, eligibility determinations, behavior planning meetings, and other team-based decision-making processes
• Collaborating with internal staff and external agencies to support student services and transitions
• Maintaining confidentiality and adhering to all legal and ethical guidelines related to student information
• Serving as a role model, advocate, and professional leader within the school community
• Engaging in ongoing professional development in special education practices and instructional strategies
• Supervising and evaluating paraprofessional staff as assigned
• Following all district policies and procedures, demonstrating punctuality, reliability, and professionalism
• Performing additional duties as assigned by district administration

Job Requirements

• Minimum Qualifications

• Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:
• Proficiency in assessment methods and data interpretation
• Ability to support diverse learners, including students with disabilities and English language learners
• Experience with specialized instruction and remediation
• Knowledge of child development and behavior management
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills
• Familiarity with Connecticut and federal special education regulations
• Strong organizational skills and a commitment to confidentiality
• Education/Certification Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Must hold or be eligible for Connecticut State certification in Special Education (065, 165)

• Preferred Education and Experience

• Successful experience as a special education teacher
• Second language or language acquisition background
• Experience working with culturally and economically diverse students