SY26-27 Empowerment Zone Autism Specialist (BCBA Preferred)

Role Overview

Educators in the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership are responsible for ensuring that students have access to strong instruction, experience a deep sense of belonging in school, and are prepared for meaningful academic and life opportunities. SEZP educators serve as instructors, mentors, and collaborators. They contribute to school communities that value strong relationships, clear expectations, and continuous improvement—for students and for adults.

Key Duties

• Participates as a member of the Evaluation team and assists in the development of Individualized Education Plans and services for students with ASD.
• Staff training and consultation on meeting the needs of students with ASD in general and special education settings.
• Attends regional trainings and meetings of the Department of Education pertinent to educating students with autism.
• Provides parent training and support through consultations and group workshops for students with ASD.
• Counsels and supports students with ASD in the Springfield Public Schools.
• Conducts formative and diagnostic assessments necessary for providing specific information on students.
• Develops data collection tools to facilitate Functional Behavior Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans for students.
• Affords appropriate programs and services for students with ASD in the Springfield Public Schools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in related field required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) preferred or DESE license in Severe or Moderate Disabilities required. Other DESE license in related fields may be considered.
• Experience in a K-12 educational environment preferred.
• Demonstrated experience and expertise in best practices in educating children with ASD.

About The Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership

The Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership (SEZP) - established in 2015 as a collaboration between Springfield Public Schools (SPS), the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), and the Springfield Education Association (SEA) – seeks to improve the longitudinal life outcomes of the more than 2,500 students in our 8 middle schools. SEZP combines district-based public education with the flexibility of autonomous school models, granting schools meaningful control over curriculum, staffing, scheduling, and budgeting—while maintaining clear accountability for student learning and growth. Across all of its work—including school improvement and educator preparation—SEZP is guided by three core values: Access: Expanding access to strong learning environments, skilled mentors, and clear pathways for students and educatorsBelonging: Building communities where people are known, supported, and accountable to one anotherOpportunity: Preparing students and educators to learn, lead, and thrive over time

Benefits

• Selection as an educator in SEZP recognizes an individual for their outstanding vision, capacity, and commitment to students.
• Educators in SEZP are eligible for the same competitive benefits available to Educators in the Springfield Public Schools.
• Educators joining SEZP may also be eligible for the following recruitment incentives, which may be offered individually: Signing bonus in addition to base salaryRelocation award for candidates from regions beyond western Massachusetts

Pay

Base Salary: Up to $96,864.45 and commensurate with experience

Schedule

Full Time