Special Education (Sub Separate Classroom)

About the Position Oliver Middle School is seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and collaborative Substantially Separate Teacher to support students in grades 7–8 with significant learning and support needs. The classroom will have up to 12 students and three paraprofessionals to support both in the classroom and during inclusion. The successful candidate will create a structured, welcoming, and academically engaging classroom environment where students can build independence, develop meaningful skills, and experience success. The teacher will work closely with students, families, special education staff, related service providers, and general education teachers to provide individualized instruction aligned with each student's needs and IEP. Key Responsibilities Provide individualized academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and functional instruction based on student needs and IEP goals. Develop and implement engaging lessons with appropriate accommodations, modifications, and supports. Create predictable classroom routines and a positive, structured learning environment. Use student data and work samples to monitor progress and adjust instruction. Implement behavior supports and proactive classroom strategies that promote student engagement and independence. Support students in developing communication, self-advocacy, organization, and daily living skills as appropriate. Collaborate with general education teachers to identify opportunities for inclusion and meaningful participation in the broader school community. Collaborate with related service providers, paraprofessionals, and other members of students' support teams. Maintain accurate documentation of student progress and services. Participate in IEP meetings and contribute meaningful information regarding student strengths, needs, progress, and goals. Communicate regularly and respectfully with families. Maintain a classroom environment that reflects Oliver Middle School's RISE UP values: Resilience, Integrity, Scholarship, Empathy, and Community. Participate in professional learning and contribute positively to the Oliver Middle School team. What We Are Looking For The ideal candidate will be: A caring and student-centered educator who believes every student can grow. Skilled at creating structure while maintaining a warm and supportive classroom environment. Comfortable differentiating instruction across a wide range of academic and developmental needs. Able to use data and student work to guide instructional decisions. Collaborative, flexible, and willing to work as part of a multidisciplinary team. Strong in communication with students, families, and colleagues. Committed to building student independence and celebrating student strengths. Able to respond to challenging behavior with proactive, respectful, and least-invasive approaches. Dedicated to creating an inclusive school community where every student belongs. Qualifications Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in Special Education preferred. Appropriate Massachusetts educator licensure/certification in Special Education or eligibility for appropriate licensure. Experience working with middle school students and/or students with significant learning and support needs preferred. Knowledge of IEP development, progress monitoring, differentiated instruction, and evidence-based instructional practices. Experience collaborating with paraprofessionals and related service providers preferred. Why Oliver Middle School? At Oliver Middle School, we believe that students thrive when they feel known, supported, challenged, and valued. Our RISE UP values guide the way we teach, collaborate, and build relationships with students. If you are an educator who brings patience, creativity, high expectations, and a commitment to student growth, we invite you to join the Oliver Middle School community. RISE UP Resilience • Integrity • Scholarship • Empathy • Community Come help our students rise, grow, and succeed.