Special Education Teacher (Long Term Substitute)

Wachusett Regional School District - Holden, MA

Full-time - Entry Level

Holden, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Wachusett Regional School District is seeking a dedicated and passionate Long Term Substitute Special Education Teacher for grades 3-5 at Paxton Center School. This position is crucial in providing support and instruction to students with mild, moderate, or intensive special needs, ensuring that they receive equitable opportunities for meaningful learning. The role is set to begin on August 26, 2024, and will continue through November 26, 2024. The ideal candidate will embody the district's core values of Collaboration, Empathy, Inclusivity, Integrity, Perseverance, and Responsibility, and will work to foster a safe and nurturing educational environment. As a Long Term Substitute Special Education Teacher, the individual will be responsible for identifying, supporting, and instructing students in accordance with their Educational Plans. This includes consulting with referring teachers, guidance staff, and parents to develop pre-evaluation program modifications, conducting pre-evaluation screenings, and summarizing test results for student records. The teacher will also serve on the Special Education Team (S.E.T.) for all evaluated students, assist in preparing and updating Educational Plans, and employ instructional methods tailored to meet the unique needs of each student. The position requires the teacher to arrange schedules for tutorial, small group, and classroom instruction, assess student progress, and prepare written reports at least quarterly. Regular counseling with colleagues, students, and parents is essential, as is maintaining contact with sending schools to ensure smooth transitions for incoming students. The teacher will also assist in implementing district policies and rules governing student conduct, develop classroom behavior rules, and maintain order in a fair manner. Participation in staff meetings and committees, as well as ongoing professional development, is expected. The role may also involve performing additional tasks as directed by the building principal or designee.

Responsibilities

• Identify, support, and instruct students with mild, moderate, or intensive special needs in accordance with Educational Plans.
• Consult with referring teacher, guidance staff, and/or parents to develop pre-evaluation program modifications when possible and evaluate referred students within thirty school days.
• Conduct pre-evaluation screening and/or interview with students and summarize test results for student records.
• Serve on the S.E.T. for all students evaluated by program staff and assist in the preparation of the Educational Plan for students served by the Special Education Program, updating same annually.
• Employ instructional methods and materials that are most appropriate for meeting stated objectives including planning individualized programs for Special Education students.
• Arrange schedules and provide tutorial, small group, and/or classroom instruction for Special Education students as described by the Educational Plan.
• Assess student progress and prepare written reports as required, but at least quarterly.
• Counsel with colleagues, students, and parents regularly.
• Maintain contact with sending schools to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of services for incoming students.
• Assist the administration in implementing all policies and rules governing student life and conduct, and develop reasonable rules of school behavior and procedure for the classroom.
• Assist the administration in implementing District goals and policies related to the educational and operational needs of the District.
• Attend staff or team meetings and serve on staff committees as required.
• Maintain and improve professional competence.
• Perform any other related task or duty at the direction of the building principal or designee.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Valid Massachusetts teaching certificate with endorsement(s) in moderate or intensive special needs.

Benefits

• $150 per diem pay for the position.