Position Type:
Student Support Services/Special Education Teacher
Date Posted:
7/2/2026
Location:
New Canaan Public Schools
Date Available:
August 2026
Closing Date:
Until Filled
Special Education Teacher/Transition Coordinator
Position Overview
This newly added, premier, hybrid teaching and leadership role is designed for an exceptional special education professional to partner with our existing Launch Transition Program team. The individual in this position will have three distinct but highly integrated roles. They will provide direct specialized instruction, oversee the daily operations of the Launch Transition Program, and coordinate transition services for students aged 14-22.
Key Responsibilities
I. Special Education Teaching
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Direct Instruction: Deliver highly effective, specialized instruction to students with diverse learning needs in both classroom and community settings.
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Curriculum Adaptation: Implement curriculum designed to meet students' independent living, community access and employment skill development in alignment with state standards and individual student goals.
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Assessment & Data: Utilize ongoing formative and summative assessments to drive instruction, monitor progress, and report outcomes to stakeholders.
II. Program Management
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IEP Oversight: Case manage and facilitate Planning and Placement Team (PPT) meetings, ensuring compliance with IDEA and Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) regulations.
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Staff Collaboration: Supervise and train, paraprofessionals and collaborate with related service providers (SLP, OT, PT) to ensure seamless program implementation.
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Program Development: Continuously evaluate and enhance program structures, methodologies, and resources to maintain the district's standard of excellence.
III. Transition Coordination
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Transition Planning: Develop and write comprehensive Transition Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) based on age-appropriate transition assessments. Support the development of transition goals and objectives for students in middle and high school as needed.
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Community Partnerships: Cultivate and maintain relationships with local businesses, community agencies (e.g., BRS, DDS), and post-secondary institutions to create job shadows, internships, and supported employment opportunities.
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Student & Family Coaching: Educate and counsel students and their families on post-secondary options, self-advocacy skills, independent living strategies, and the transition to adult services.
Qualifications & Requirements
Required:
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Certification: Valid Connecticut State Department of Education Certification in Comprehensive Special Education (Endorsement #165 or #065).
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Experience: Minimum of 5 years of successful experience as a Special Education Teacher at the secondary level.
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Expertise: Deep understanding of IDEA, CT special education laws, and best practices in secondary transition planning.
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Skills: Exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to navigate complex PPT meetings and high parent expectations.
Preferred:
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Cross-Endorsement or specialized training in Transition Services.
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Prior experience in a program management or teacher-leadership role.
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Familiarity with the state agencies in Connecticut (DDS, BRS, DMHAS).
We look forward to receiving applications from passionate educators who are committed to making a difference in the lives of students.
Please complete the online application on our district website www.ncps-k12.org and upload a cover letter, resume, transcripts and three letters of recommendation.
