1.0 FTE Long-Term Substitute Special Education Teacher (LEAD) (March-May 2025)

Reading Public Schools is seeking a qualified special education teacher for Joshua Eaton Elementary School. The Special Education Teacher will help students learn subject matter and skills, in accordance with Special Education Laws, contributing to their educational development while considering their cognitive and social emotional learning abilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Teaches district-approved curriculum.
• Develops appropriate instructional materials, activities, and lesson plans, with modifications and accommodations for individual students.
• Structures the classroom and maintains standards of student behaviour to achieve an effective learning atmosphere.
• Creates an environment for learning through functional and attractive displays, interest centres, and exhibits of students' work.
• Evaluates students' academic and social growth, keeps appropriate records, and prepares progress reports.
• Identifies student needs, makes appropriate referrals, and develops and implements individual education plans.
• Participates in planning of curriculum goals and relevant student performance objectives.
• Helps students develop individual learning goals and objectives.
• Evaluates individual student accomplishment of goals and objectives, records progress, and adjusts learning activities accordingly.
• Works with parents to guide the growth and development of children.
• Demonstrates understanding of definitions, etiology, and characteristics of students' disabilities.
• Demonstrates understanding of Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and Common Core State Standards.
• Integrates technology within instruction to increase student comprehension and interest.
• Participates in ongoing professional development activities related to student population and certification areas.
• Communicates regularly with parents through newsletters, notes, phone calls, and conferences.
• Is available to students and parents for education-related purposes outside the instructional day.
• Works with specialists, related service providers, staff members, parents, and outside agencies to assist students with special problems.
• Plans and coordinates the work of paraeducators, parents, and volunteers in the classroom and on field trips.
• Maintains an understanding of the philosophies and principles utilized in District-wide programs.
• Follows state and federal special education regulations as outlined in the IDEA and 603 CMR 28.00.
• Supervises the classroom, students, paraeducators, and parent volunteers.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Certified to teach Wilson and/or Orton-Gillingham Reading Programs preferred.
• Ability to apply knowledge of current research and theory in the educational field.
• Ability to plan and implement lessons based on district and school objectives.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups including staff, parents, and the general public.
• Ability to read, analyse, and interpret professional periodicals and journals.
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to use reasoning to evaluate information and recommend appropriate actions.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, staff, and the community.
• Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and manage several projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of special education procedures to maintain appropriate confidential records.
• Experience writing IEPs and evaluating student skills.
• Strong collaborative, teaching, coaching, and leadership skills.
• Strong problem-solving and data-collection skills.
• Strong organisational skills to balance the demands of a multi-tasking position.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of baccalaureate degree; master's degree preferred.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:

• Teachers must possess valid Massachusetts teacher licensure appropriate to their student population.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The employee must be able to remain stationary for extended periods and occasionally move throughout the school building. Regular use of hands for typing, handling objects, and operating tools is required. Clear and effective communication with students, parents, and colleagues is essential.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The employee will be working in a normal school environment with an acceptable level of noise, interacting with students, parents, and other staff members. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.