Teacher - Special Education for Transitions Academy

Central Office - Holyoke, MA

Full-time

Holyoke, MA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The moderate special education teacher for the Transition Academy plays a crucial role in supporting students aged 18-22 with moderate disabilities. This position involves creating and implementing lesson plans tailored to meet the individual needs of each student, ensuring that all instruction is targeted and effective. The teacher will assist in the development of Person Centered Plans, which are essential for guiding the educational journey of each student. A key responsibility is to ensure that modifications and accommodations outlined in each student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) are created and implemented effectively, allowing for a personalized learning experience. In addition to instructional duties, the teacher will promote and maintain positive communication with families. This includes providing regular updates on student progress, engaging in parent outreach, and assisting in events that foster community among students and families. The teacher is expected to plan a comprehensive program of study that aligns with the interests and abilities of the students, utilizing a variety of instructional techniques and media to enhance learning outcomes. Creating a conducive classroom environment is paramount, as it should reflect the maturity and interests of the students. The teacher will guide the learning process towards achieving curriculum goals, establishing clear objectives for lessons, units, and projects, and effectively communicating these objectives to students. Regular assessment of student accomplishments is required, along with the provision of progress reports as mandated by law and district policy. The teacher must maintain accurate and complete records, be available for education-related purposes outside of instructional hours when necessary, and supervise teacher aides and volunteers, evaluating their performance collaboratively with department heads. Continuous professional development is encouraged, and participation in staff meetings and committees is required. Other duties may be assigned as needed to support the educational mission of the Transition Academy.

Responsibilities

• Create and implement lesson plans for students in the Transition Academy.
• Assist in the development of Person Centered Plans.
• Ensure modifications and accommodations are implemented as outlined in the IEP.
• Promote and maintain positive communication with families through outreach and updates on student progress.
• Plan a program of study that meets individual needs, interests, and abilities of students.
• Create a conducive classroom environment appropriate to the maturity and interests of students.
• Guide the learning process toward achieving curriculum goals and establish clear objectives for lessons.
• Assess student accomplishments regularly and provide required progress reports.
• Maintain accurate and complete records as required by law and district policy.
• Be available to students and parents for education-related purposes outside the instructional day when required.
• Plan and supervise assignments for teacher aides and volunteers, evaluating their performance.
• Strive to maintain and improve professional competence.
• Attend staff meetings and serve on staff committees as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Education or related field.
• Moderate Disabilities certification for grades 5-12.
• At least one year of full-time teaching experience.
• At least three years of experience working with students with autism in an inclusion setting.
• Commitment to ensuring academic success for all students.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply student performance data to instructional planning and execution.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; excellent teamwork skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working in an urban setting.
• Experience working with diverse student populations.
• Bilingual applicants (Spanish) strongly encouraged to apply.