TEACHER - SPED MOD - SY 26-27

Lawrence Public Schools is committed to ensuring that all students successfully master the content and skills necessary to graduate from high school, college, and/or career ready through a standards-based, rigorous instructional program focused on academic achievement and the development of 21st-century skills, accompanied by a comprehensive system of support.

About the role

The Special Education Teacher creates a warm, safe environment that fosters a love for learning while promoting social-emotional well-being and academic growth. The teacher uses knowledge of student data and abilities to deliver differentiated instruction aligned to IEP goals and the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, rooted in strong relationship-building with students, families, and colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Teach foundational reading, language arts, social studies, mathematics, and science in alignment with Common Core, Massachusetts Curriculum Standards, and students' IEP goals
• Develop lesson plans and instructional materials; provide individualized and small-group instruction to meet diverse learning needs
• Create a culturally responsive and age-appropriate classroom environment using varied instructional strategies, including inquiry, group discussion, hands-on activities, and play/discovery-based learning
• Use relationship-building as the basis for classroom management and apply restorative practices to address behavioral concerns
• Evaluate students' academic and social growth; maintain accurate and complete records as required by law and district policy
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians through conferences and other means regarding student progress and classroom activities
• Collaborate with school teams to analyze data, plan lessons, share best practices, and improve student outcomes
• Participate in teacher evaluation processes in cooperation with the appropriate administrator
• Attend school-sponsored events (e.g., Open House) as agreed upon with the building administrator, in alignment with the collective bargaining agreement

Requirements

• Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) license in Moderate Disabilities (PreK-8 or 5-12) or appropriate Special Education certification
• SEI Endorsement required
• Bachelor's degree in education or related field (Master's preferred)
• Experience in urban public schools preferred
• Bilingual candidates highly encouraged to apply

Skills

• Knowledge of IEP development and implementation
• Strong instructional planning and classroom management skills
• Ability to differentiate instruction to meet a wide range of learners
• Understanding of culturally responsive teaching practices
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in progress monitoring and data-driven instruction
• Familiarity with restorative practices and social-emotional learning frameworks
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and families
• Commitment to continuous professional growth and reflection

Pay

$61,788 - $94,614

Schedule

Full-Time, School-Year (183 Days)