Exceptional Learning Elementary Autism Teacher

Springfield Public Schools • Springfield, MA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Join the SPS Office of Exceptional Learning and be part of an innovative journey! We are looking for dedicated professionals who are attentive, supportive, and committed to helping individuals with autism reach their full potential. This is a unique opportunity to participate in the inaugural Western Massachusetts Public Day for Autism, where you can innovate, develop your skills, and make a significant impact. Join us to inspire, support, and shape the future of autism care. As an Exceptional Learning Elementary Autism Teacher, you will provide a highly structured educational environment for students that addresses academic, communication, social, and behavioral needs. Instructional methodologies may include evidence-based practices such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Verbal Behavior approaches, structured teaching, social skills instruction, facilitated play, visual supports, and assistive technology. Behavioral supports will be integrated throughout the program using positive behavioral interventions and supports, structured routines, visual schedules, transition supports, and data-driven decision-making. Student progress will be monitored through ongoing data collection, observations, and formal and informal assessments. Robust training will be provided to all educators and paraeducators. Small student to staff ratio. Support of an Autism Specialist.

Requirements

• Highly qualified with required competency in the content area; and Appropriate content and grade level licensure
• Teacher of Severe or Moderate Disability (PreK-2) (PreK-8) from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
• Bachelor’s Degree with appropriate license; or Master’s Degree with appropriate content area license at high school level preferred and expected within 5 years.

Responsibilities

• Develop instructional programs that address the individual needs, interests, and abilities of students whenever possible.
• Creates a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to students' maturity and interests.
• Prepares for assigned classes and provides written evidence of preparation upon request, as required by the teachers’ contract.
• Regularly assesses student achievement, provides required progress reports, and communicates with parents as necessary.
• Maintains accurate, complete, and compliant records as required by law, district policy, and administrative regulations.
• Regularly identifies student learning challenges and seek assistance from district specialists when necessary.
• Takes necessary and reasonable precautions to safeguard students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Adheres to the SPS classroom code of conduct, aligns with administrative policies, and enforces classroom behavior rules fairly and consistently.
• Plans and supervises paraeducator assignments and completes written evaluations as required.
• Engages in ongoing professional development to meet district requirements and personal professional goals.
• Participates actively in the contractually approved teacher evaluation process and contributes to mutual agreement on evaluation outcomes.
• Attends building and district meetings to promote staff communication and collaborative decision-making, as scheduled during the extended day.
• Attends established school-sponsored activities, such as Back to School Night and Open House, as agreed upon by the building administrator and faculty in accordance with the teachers’ contract.
• Contributes to district and building decisions regarding budget, facilities, curriculum, and staff well-being.
• Strives to maintain and enhance professional competence.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Numerous cutting-edge professional development opportunities
• Mentors such as instructional leadership specialists and effective educator coaches
• Career advancement opportunities
• Educational pipeline programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level