What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sub-Separate Classroom Teacher position at Leicester Middle School?
Substantially Separate Classroom Teacher is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing a highly structured classroom environment for students with moderate to severe special needs. This role focuses on individualized academic instruction, social-emotional development, communication skills, and behavior intervention. In this role, the teacher works collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team (including paraprofessionals and therapists) to ensure each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) is implemented with precision and empathy.
Key Responsibilities
1. Individualized Instruction & IEP Management
IEP Development: Draft, implement, and monitor measurable goals for academic, social, and life skills.
Data Collection: Systematically track progress using digital tools and behavioral logs to make data-driven instructional adjustments.
Differentiation: Modify the general curriculum to various developmental levels. Consultation: Effectively consult with general education teachers (when applicable) regarding the learning needs of special education students, and modify and adapt the curricula, materials, and environment to meet the needs of individual students.
Testing: Complete diagnostic academic testing (formal/informal) as required. In addition, candidates will be responsible for submitting MCAS alternative assessments.
Instruction: Work with individual students or small groups for the purpose of practicing and/or reinforcing learning concepts and assisting students in reaching their goals and grade level standards.
2. Environmental & Behavioral Support
Structured Teaching: Design a classroom with clear physical boundaries, visual schedules, and sensory-friendly zones to reduce anxiety and promote independence.
Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP): Implement behavior plans as developed by the BCBA.
Crisis Management: Ability to participate in safety care training and utilize de-escalation techniques to ensure the safety of students and staff during behavioral
4. Team Leadership & Collaboration
Staff Supervision: Direct and train classroom paraprofessionals and 1:1 aides on specific student protocols.
Consultation: Collaborate with Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), Physical Therapists (PTs), and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) to integrate therapies into the school day.
Meetings: Participate in IEP team meetings for students assigned and newly referred to develop/write goals and objectives for assigned students, including program-required timelines.
Parent Collaboration: Act as a case manager for designated students, providing close communication with parents.