What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Support Specialist position at The New School of Montpelier?
NSM is approved as an independent school by the Vermont State Board of Education to provide general and special education services to students, ages 5-22 in grades K-12 in the disability categories of Intellectual Disability, Specific Learning Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Other Health Impairment, Emotional Disturbance, Speech or Language Impairment, Developmental Delay, Multiple Disabilities, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Additionally, NSM operates a program for Alumni/Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
Mission: NSM is a learning community committed to preparing individuals with unique and complex challenges for successful lives. We use evidence based practices to promote independence, communication, social/emotional skills and academic growth, within a culture of safety and belonging.
Position: NSM is currently seeking Support Specialists that will support and follow through on individualized plans set for young adult participants or students working on community, life skills, and enrolled in educational and behavior programs. The successful candidate(s) would work collaboratively with educators and other support staff to meet the daily needs of our participants and students by providing appropriate activities and learning experiences in a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment.
Qualifications: Minimum of a high school diploma. Life experience after high school and successful experience working with children and/or people with disabilities preferred.
Other requirements for this position include:
Ability and expectation to participate in recreational activities such as biking, hiking, walks, swimming, PE classes, etc.
Comply with all policies and procedures in the NSM Employee Handbook and Student and Family Handbook.
Participate in all required meetings and trainings
Assist educators, special educators, speech/language pathologists, and program assistants in academic instruction and educational services.
Implement strategies and interventions in behavior support
Assist with daily living tasks, support in the community, and in vocational settings.
Must be able to respond to physical interventions
Valid driver’s license, current vehicle inspection and car insurance is required.
Compensation & Benefits: We are seeking a qualified candidate for a full-time, 222-day position, including 12 paid holidays and 13 paid personal days off as part of the annual school calendar.
This position offers a pay plus benefits package totalling between $43,977 to $47,927 for the 2025–2026 school year, based on qualifications and experience.
Current Pay Plus Benefits Package Includes:
Pay Range: $31,219 – $34,965
Employer-Paid Benefits*: $12,758 – $12,962
*health insurance or health stipend, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, paid time off, and 401k retirement plan with employer match.
*Effective through June 30, 2026 with total pay plus benefits package increasing to $46,172 - $54,949 effective July 1, 2026.
Apply: Please send your resume and cover letter (preferred not required) to jobs@nsmvt.org. We encourage applicants to apply via email; or can also be mailed via USPS mail to The New School of Montpelier Human Resources, 9 West Street, Montpelier, VT 05602. Please note that only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.
If you need assistance or an accommodation in the application process, please contact the Human Resources Director at 802-222-6129.
The New School of Montpelier is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Salary : $43,000 - $54,949