TEACHER- DEAF - SY 26-27

About the role

Lawrence Public Schools is seeking a highly qualified and dedicated Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (TODHH) to provide specialized instruction and support for students with hearing impairments across the district. This position serves students from Pre-Kindergarten through Post-Graduate levels (age 22) in a variety of educational settings, including general education classrooms, specialized classrooms, and pull-out services where needed. The TODHH collaborates with students, families, classroom teachers, related service providers, educational audiologists, and other team members to ensure access to the curriculum and full participation in the educational environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct instruction to students with hearing impairments using specialized strategies and accommodations aligned with each student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).
• Assess student needs and progress in language development, auditory skills, communication, and academic achievement.
• Support students using various communication modalities including spoken language, American Sign Language (ASL), Signed English, cued speech, and augmentative or alternative communication (AAC)/other assistive devices as appropriate.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers to implement accommodations, modifications, and assistive technology to support access to instruction.
• Consult with staff on the use of FM systems, sound field amplification, and hearing assistive technology.
• Provide in-service training and coaching to staff on hearing loss, communication strategies, and inclusive practices when needed.
• Partner with families to support communication development and access to learning both at school and at home.
• Coordinate services with outside agencies (e.g., audiologists, early intervention, or vocational programs) as needed, including initial evaluations.
• Monitor and support the use of hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other personal amplification devices.
• Assist in transition planning for students moving between levels or into post-secondary settings.
• Maintain accurate records, including IEP documentation, service logs, and progress reports.

Qualifications

• Valid Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) license as a Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (All Levels).
• Master's degree in Deaf Education or a related field.
• Demonstrated knowledge of language development, communication modalities, and the educational impact of hearing loss.
• Strong interpersonal, collaboration, and communication skills.
• Ability to work flexibly across a range of settings and age levels.

Preferred

• Proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL).
• Experience working in urban school settings or with diverse student populations.
• Knowledge of and experience with assistive technology, FM/DM systems, and other hearing assistive devices.
• Familiarity with inclusive education practices and Universal Design for Learning (UDL).