QualificationsEducation and LicensureMassachusetts teaching license in Moderate Disabilities, PreK8 requiredMaster's degree preferredExperience and SkillsExperience teaching students with disabilities in inclusive educational settingsKnowledge of child development, differentiated instruction, and evidence-based special education practicesExperience implementing inclusion, behavior support, and de-escalation strategiesExperience and/or certification in Orton-Gillingham, Wilson Reading System, Lindamood-Bell, and/or language-based instructional approaches preferredStrong collaboration, communication, and organizational skillsWriting IEPS under the new Massachusetts guidelinesPosition SummaryWesthampton Elementary School seeks a skilled, collaborative Special Education Teacher to provide specially designed instruction and case management services for elementary students with disabilities. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong knowledge of Massachusetts and federal special education requirements, evidence-based reading, writing, and math intervention, inclusive practices, progress monitoring, IEP development, and family communication. This position requires a teacher who can support students across settings, collaborate effectively with general educators and related service providers, contribute to evaluation and eligibility processes, and ensure that IEPs are individualized, data-based, legally compliant, and implemented with fidelity.The successful candidate must be prepared to support district priorities related to early literacy, MTSS/DCAP alignment, Child Find, educational assessment documentation, MCAS participation decisions, MCAS-Alt eligibility review, progress monitoring, legally compliant IEP development, and accurate service delivery grids. The candidate must be able to balance inclusive practice with the delivery of intensive specialized instruction and must be committed to helping students access the general curriculum, make meaningful progress, and build independence in the least restrictive environment.Essential ResponsibilitiesInstruction and Student LearningDesign and implement rigorous, standards-based instruction with measurable learning outcomes across several grade levelsProvide push-in and/or pull-out instructionSupport inclusion while providing intensive, specialized instructionDevelop and adapt curriculum, lessons, and interventions to meet diverse student learning needsCreate a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment that encourages academic risk-taking and student ownership of learningUtilize a variety of formal and informal assessments to monitor student progress and guide instructional planningAnalyze assessment data to inform instruction and communicate student progress appropriatelyUse data to help determine when students need intervention, evaluation, or Team reconveningDemonstrate measurable impact on student learning, growth, and achievementSupports students in the general education classroom whenever appropriateCollaborates with general education teachers to adapt instructionCollect relevant data, participate in FBAs, and implement BIPsDetermine and identify MCAS accommodations and MCAS-Alt eligibilitySpecial Education ServicesDevelop, implement, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in compliance with state and federal regulationsProvide specialized instruction and targeted interventions for students with disabilitiesCollaborate with classroom teachers to implement accommodations, modifications, behavior supports, and instructional strategiesSupport inclusive practices and promote student access to the general education curriculumMaintain accurate and timely student records, documentation, and progress reportsFamily and Community EngagementFoster positive and collaborative relationships with familiesExplains students' progress clearly to families/caregiversSupport parent participation at Team meetings and adhere to procedural safeguardsMaintain regular, culturally responsive communication regarding student progress and learning needsEncourage family participation in the classroom and school communityCollaborate with caregivers to support student success both at home and at schoolProfessional ResponsibilitiesEngage in ongoing professional growth and reflective practiceCollaborate effectively with colleagues, specialists, and school teamsParticipate actively in school improvement efforts and shared decision-makingSupport the mission, goals, and values of the school and districtPerform additional duties as assigned by the Principal in accordance with contractual guidelinesGeneral ExpectationsMaintain consistent attendance and punctualityDemonstrate professionalism, ethical conduct, and reliabilityMaintain confidentiality and students trustEstablish cooperative and respectful relationships with students, families, and staffManage multiple responsibilities effectively and meet deadlinesCommunicate clearly and professionally, both orally and in writingUtilize technology and standard office equipment effectivelyWork ScheduleMondayFriday 8:15 AM 3:15 PMStart Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2026 (Staff Professional Development Day) District CORI Check required before employment beginsFederal Fingerprint Check required before employment begins
