Position Purpose

The Needham Public Schools is seeking a Special Education Teacher to be the lead teacher in our specialized program (Intensive Learning Center) to support students with developmental and intellectual disabilities. This position begins in August 2024. Under the general supervision of the Special Education Coordinator and School Principal to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district-approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students' specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment.   

Essential Functions

• Conducts assessments, testing, and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning challenges and opportunities, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.
• Participates in team meetings and assists in developing Individual Educational Programs ("IEP") for students.
• Develops DTT / ABA programs (as needed) for students, develops data tracking and builds program books. 
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff and related service providers to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs.
• Serves as a ready resource to students and parents that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as a liaison between home and school.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops, or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and provides student information and data in order to write progress reports.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Assists in the orientation of new teaching assistants, and provides training and guidance as necessary.
• Priority will be given to applicants with Wilson training, and behavioral and/or emotional intervention training or experience.
• Provides direct instruction across the curriculum including accommodations and modifications per a variety of student needs.

Additional Duties

• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities

• Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.   
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based on student learning styles.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network systems and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Qualifications:

• MA DESE Certification in Moderate or Severe Disabilities
• BCBA credentials preferred
• Bachelor's from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
• Master's Degree in Special Education.
• Successful prior lead teacher experience required
• Experience developing and modifying program books

Application and Selection Procedure:

Please apply online. Applications will be considered only when a cover letter, resume, three letters of recommendation, license, and transcripts have been attached to your online application. All resumes will be screened and selected candidates will participate in a thorough interview process.

Compensation and Benefits: 

Please review the Unit A Contract and this page to learn more about employee compensation and benefits. 

The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, active military/veteran status, ancestry, genetic information, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, employment policies, and other administered programs and activities. In addition, students who are homeless or of limited English-speaking ability are protected from discrimination in accessing the course of study and other opportunities available through the schools.

Needham Public Schools has a strong commitment to equity. Candidates who also have a strong commitment to this work are encouraged to apply. For more information on our equity work please visit our equity website.

All positions are subject to the approval of the 2024-2025 Needham Public School budget by the Town of Needham.