26-27 Special Education SEEK Teacher - Therapeutic Program

Position Summary: 

The Special Education Teacher in the Therapeutic Program (SEEK) provides specialized instruction and supports the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral development of students with identified needs. This role creates a structured, supportive, and trauma-informed learning environment that promotes student growth and access to the curriculum. The teacher collaborates with staff, families, and service providers to implement individualized programming aligned with state standards and district expectations.

Optional Work Schedules:

184 days (School Year Schedule) or 

209 days (School Year schedule 184 days and additional work days include 25 days outside of the regular school year which would include Special Education Summer School Programs.

Work Year: 184 days (school year) or 209 days (including extended year/summer programming)

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

The responsibilities listed below reflect the primary duties of the position; the omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the role. Additional responsibilities that are similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position may be assigned as needed to meet program, legal, or operational needs.

• Plan and deliver instruction aligned with Massachusetts state standards and district curriculum
• Develop and implement differentiated instruction to meet diverse learning needs across multiple grade levels
• Create a structured, therapeutic classroom environment that supports students’ social, emotional, and behavioral development
• Implement strategies to support emotional regulation, coping skills, and interpersonal development
• Conduct ongoing formative and summative assessments and use data to inform instruction and interventions
• Adapt curriculum and instructional methods to ensure equitable access for all students
• Collaborate with general education teachers, counselors, paraprofessionals, and related service providers (e.g., BCBA) to support student needs
• Establish and maintain effective, culturally responsive communication with families and caregivers
• Support and implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and monitor student progress
• Direct and support paraprofessional staff in instructional and behavioral programming
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment
• Follow guidance from school and district leadership to support school-wide expectations and practices
• Participate in professional development and incorporate new strategies into instruction
• Perform other duties consistent with the scope and responsibilities of the position as assigned

Knowledge, Abilities, & Skills

• Knowledge of child and adolescent development, particularly social-emotional and behavioral needs
• Knowledge of special education practices, IEP implementation, and therapeutic programming
• Ability to create structured, trauma-informed, and supportive classroom environments
• Ability to differentiate instruction and adapt curriculum to meet diverse student needs
• Strong classroom management and behavior support skills
• Ability to analyze student data and adjust instruction accordingly
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with staff, families, and service providers
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment
• Commitment to culturally responsive and equitable teaching practices

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the position’s essential functions.

• Standing and walking for prolonged periods; frequent bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, which may include sitting on the floor to effectively engage with students;
• The use of hands and fingers to operate computers, instructional technology, and classroom materials.
• Sufficient visual, auditory, and verbal ability to supervise students, deliver instruction, and evaluate student performance. 
• Ability to lift, carry, and move instructional materials and supplies, weighing up to 15 pounds. The position further requires the ability to respond appropriately and promptly to emergency situations to ensure the health and safety of students.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Appropriate Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) licensure in Special Education or relevant field is required
• SEI Endorsement required
• Experience working in therapeutic or substantially separate programs preferred
• Bilingual or multilingual skills preferred 

Reporting Relationships

• The School Principal

Position Details

Location: John F. Kennedy School

Department: Special Education

Union Affiliation: Somerville Educators Union (SEU), Unit A

Terms of Employment

Employment Status: Full Time 

FLSA Status: Exempt

Salary: Shall be commensurate with education and experience, in accordance with the Somerville Educator's Union collective bargaining agreement.

Pre-Employment Requirements

MA Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Clearance

Fingerprints

The Somerville Public Schools does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, home status, marital/civil union status, sex/gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, place of birth, national origin, ancestry, cultural identity, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.

Salary : $66,317 - $129,544