SY 26-27 SPECIALIZED PROGRAM TEACHER
Reports to: Principal
Location: Oliver Elementary School
Job Type: Full-Time
About the Program
Specialized classrooms have been designed to provide evidence-based educational practices for students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as significant Social Emotional Disabilities. The classrooms are resourced with educators, special education teachers, paraprofessionals, and BCBAs trained in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. Students assigned to these classrooms have access to general education settings, curriculum, and activities while still receiving the individualized supports they need to be successful during the school day.
Focused on academic achievement, work habit behavior, and generalizing socially appropriate behaviors, the Specialized Classroom also reinforces learning related to functional communication, increased independence, and behavioral and sensory self-regulation. Each student is assigned to a general education grade level homeroom, is included in grade level education curriculum content, integrated studies, and enrichment opportunities as appropriate. Families are included and welcomed in the school and classroom communities. The program at Oliver serves students in grades K-4.
Responsibilities
- Teach, reinforce, remediate, and ensure mastery of academic content with individual students, small groups of students, and whole class(es) of students in accordance with their IEPs;
- Evaluate students' progress regularly and prepare measurable goals and objectives for IEP review meeting in accordance with state and federal regulations;
- Consult with and assist principal(s) and education staff in modifying their classroom environments to meet the needs of all students in their classes;
- Facilitate movement of special education students to the next less restrictive environment whenever possible;
- Implement curricula and activities to meet academic standards and MA frameworks;
- Design and implement assessments that measure progress towards academic standards;
- Use assessment data to refine curriculum and modify instructional practices;
- Communicate effectively, consistently, and professionally with students, families, and colleagues;
- Provide support, accommodations, and attention to all students;
- Participate in curriculum design and professional development, grade-level activities, and school-wide functions;
- Ensure students are engaged and invested in the classroom, managing behavior and providing incentives;
- Comply with school, district, and statewide policies and regulations;
- Be accountable for students' mastery of academic standards; and
- Complete other duties as assigned.
Skills and Characteristics
- A passionate belief in the student of Lawrence Public Schools;
- Commitment to the academic and personal success of Lawrence Public Schools students and families;
- Proven history of successful collaboration;
- Ability to take initiative and succeed in a fast-paced classroom/school environment while remaining calm and focused when faced with unexpected challenges;
- Demonstrated capacity to create and maintain a positive learning environment in which students' diverse backgrounds, identities, strengths, and challenges are respected and utilized;
- Ability to reflect on practice and an openness to coaching and feedback.
Qualifications
- Bilingual and/or Bicultural strongly preferred;
- Valid Massachusetts License: Severe Disabilities;
- Minimum of two years' experience working with children preferred;
- Current Authorization to work in the United States.
Pay
$59,988.00–$86,584.89