Preschool Special Education Teacher (Long Term Sub- Anticipated October-November) SY26-27

Position Purpose

The Needham Public Schools is seeking a Preschool Special Education Teacher to fill a long term sub position anticapted to be 6 weeks this fall. Exact start date TBD, with an expectation of beginning in October. This role will work under the general supervision of the Preschool Director to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills, and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students' specific needs; and providing a safe and optimal learning environment in an intergrated classroom setting. 

Job Responsibilities: 

• Participates in team meetings and assists in developing Individualized Education Programs ("IEP") for students as needed. 
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff and related service providers to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs.
• Serves as a ready resource to students and parents that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as a liaison between home and school.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and provides student information and data in order to write progress reports.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Assists in the orientation of new teaching assistants, and provides training and guidance as necessary.
• Provides direct instruction across the curriculum including accommodations and modifications per a variety of student needs.

Additional Duties:

• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Preschool Director and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent. 

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities:

• Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based on student learning styles.
• Knowledge of early childhood and child development for students between the ages of 3 and 5 years old.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students
• Ability to use computer network systems and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, and an interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Massachusetts DESE Licensure for Early Childhood Students with and without Disabilities and/or Moderate Special Needs and/or Severe Special Needs
• Masters Degree in Special Education, preferably with a focus on early childhood
• Experience working with students between the ages of 3 and 5 with moderate to severe special needs

Application and Selection Procedure:

Please apply online. All resumes will be screened and selected candidates will participate in a thorough interview process.

Compensation: 

Compensation for substitutes is based on the duration of the coverage: $24.42/hr - $27.25/hr

The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, active military/veteran status, ancestry, genetic information, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, employment policies, and other administered programs and activities. In addition, students who are homeless or of limited English-speaking ability are protected from discrimination in accessing the course of study and other opportunities available through the schools.

Needham Public Schools has a strong commitment to equity. Candidates who also have a strong commitment to this work are encouraged to apply. For more information on our equity work please visit our equity website.