What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Teacher (Grades 6-8) position at Ashland Middle School?
Ashland Public Schools is seeking a dedicated, collaborative, and student-centered Special Education Teacher to join the team at Ashland Middle School starting in August. This is a full-time position. The successful candidate will provide specialized instruction, support inclusive practices, and collaborate closely with general education teachers, related service providers, administrators, and families to ensure students with disabilities have access to meaningful educational opportunities and demonstrate academic and social-emotional growth.
Ashland Middle School serves students in grades 6–8 and is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for all students.
Responsibilities
- Provide direct specialized instruction to students with disabilities in inclusion, co-taught, and/or substantially separate settings as assigned
- Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in compliance with state and federal regulations
- Collaborate with general education teachers to modify curriculum, implement accommodations, and support differentiated instruction
- Monitor student progress and maintain accurate documentation of student performance and services
- Participate in IEP meetings, team meetings, and parent conferences
- Conduct ongoing progress monitoring and use data to inform instruction and interventions
- Foster positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues
- Support students’ executive functioning, self-advocacy, and social-emotional development
- Maintain effective classroom management and create a safe, inclusive learning environment
- Collaborate with related service providers, counselors, and support staff to address student needs
- Participate in professional development and school-based initiatives
Qualifications
- Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education licensure in Moderate Disabilities PreK–8 and/or 5–12 required
- Bachelor’s degree required
- Experience working with middle school students preferred
- Knowledge of inclusive instructional practices, differentiated instruction, and special education laws/regulations
- Strong collaboration, communication, and organizational skills
- Experience with co-teaching models and progress monitoring preferred
- Ability to build positive relationships with students and families