Pre-K Special Education Dedicated Substitute (Full Time) - Multiple Openings

TITLE: Pre-K Special Education Dedicated Substitute (Full Time) - Multiple Openings 

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Portland Public Schools has multiple Dedicated Substitute openings in the Pre-K Special Education program for the 2026-2027 school year. The Pre-K Special Education Dedicated Substitute provides daily, on-site coverage across pre-kindergarten classrooms, with a focus on supporting students with disabilities in early childhood settings. This position ensures continuity of instruction, routines, and student support by implementing lesson plans and maintaining consistent classroom practices in the absence of regular staff.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide daily classroom coverage as assigned across Pre-K settings, including ECSE and inclusive classrooms
• Implement teacher-developed lesson plans and support developmentally appropriate, play-based learning activities
• Support students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), including accommodations, goals, and behavior supports
• Assist with classroom routines, transitions, and positive behavior interventions
• Deliver individualized and small group support under the direction of certified staff
• Collaborate with teachers, special education staff, education technicians, and related service providers to ensure consistency of services
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students
• Provide extended coverage in a single classroom when needed to ensure continuity for students

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to support students with diverse developmental and learning needs
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills
• Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing classroom assignments and needs

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:

• At least 2 years of college education
• [Preferred] Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
• Experience working with young children, preferably in early childhood or special education settings

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Active, classroom-based role requiring movement, engagement on the floor, and support with daily routines (e.g., transitions, meals, toileting as appropriate)
• May include supporting students with varying physical, communication, and behavioral needs

CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Maine State fingerprint (CHRC) authorization (more info)
• [Preferred] Active Maine State Teacher Certification (more info)

EMPLOYMENT DETAILS:

• Schedule: School Year, Full Time (7 hour day)
• Assignment: Temporary; position not guaranteed from year to year
• Wage: $28.99 per hour (rate subject to increase as of 26-27 school year)
• Benefits: Eligible for approximately $500 month toward a PPS medical benefits plan
• PTO: Earned Paid Leave (EPL) provisions as per Maine law

ABOUT PORTLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS:

Portland Public Schools is one of the most diverse district's north of Boston, MA, with more than 50 languages spoken by our students and their families. It is the largest district in the state of Maine, serving almost 7,000 students from Pre-K to 12th grade, spread across 20 building and partner sites.

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Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.