Moderate Special Education Teacher

Waltham Public Schools•Waltham, MA

About The Position

The Special Education Teacher provides high-quality, standards-based specialized instruction and serves as the IEP liaison (case manager) for assigned students. Working collaboratively with families, general education teachers, related service providers, and administrators, the teacher develops, implements, and monitors individualized educational programs that promote academic achievement, independence, and social-emotional growth. The teacher ensures compliance with federal and state special education regulations while fostering an inclusive learning environment where all students can reach their full potential. The position includes planning and delivering specialized instruction aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and each student's IEP; differentiating instruction to meet students' academic, behavioral, communication, and social-emotional needs; maintaining a safe and structured classroom; using instructional strategies, assistive technology, and educational resources; and assessing student learning to guide instruction. The teacher also maintains records, completes documentation, and participates in professional learning. As case manager, the teacher coordinates IEP development, implementation, and monitoring; facilitates Team meetings; ensures documentation, timelines, and procedural safeguards are met; monitors progress and reporting; coordinates services; maintains confidential records; and communicates with families about assigned students' special education programs and services. The teacher supports students' academic, behavioral, social, emotional, and functional development, including self-advocacy, independence, executive functioning, and self-regulation. The role involves partnering with families and multidisciplinary school teams, maintaining confidentiality and ethical practice, fulfilling assigned duties, and supporting district priorities related to equity, inclusion, and student achievement. Salary is in accordance with the Waltham Educators Association collective bargaining agreement.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
Valid Massachusetts DESE license in Moderate Disabilities (Grades 6–12).
Knowledge of evidence-based instructional practices for students with disabilities.
Knowledge of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.
Knowledge of federal and Massachusetts special education laws, regulations, and procedural requirements.
Knowledge of IEP development, implementation, and progress monitoring.
Knowledge of evidence-based instructional practices, assessment, and intervention.
Knowledge of inclusive educational practices and Universal Design for Learning.
Knowledge of positive behavioral supports and social-emotional learning.
Effective instructional planning and differentiated teaching skills.
Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Organization, time management, and case management skills.
Ability to collaborate and consult effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
Proficiency with educational technology and special education documentation systems.
Ability to deliver effective specialized instruction, analyze student data, build positive relationships, manage multiple priorities while maintaining compliance, and foster equitable, inclusive learning environments.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree.
Experience with IEP development, implementation, and case management.
Bilingual and bicultural candidates are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Plan and deliver specialized, standards-based instruction aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and students' IEPs.
Differentiate instruction using evidence-based practices to meet students' academic, behavioral, communication, and social-emotional needs.
Create and maintain a safe, structured, inclusive, and engaging classroom that supports learning and student independence.
Use instructional strategies, assistive technology, and educational resources to maximize student access and participation.
Monitor student learning through ongoing assessment and data collection to inform instruction and interventions.
Maintain accurate instructional records and complete required documentation on time.
Participate in professional learning and implement district initiatives and best practices.
Serve as IEP liaison and case manager for assigned students.
Coordinate IEP development, implementation, and monitoring in accordance with federal and Massachusetts regulations.
Schedule, facilitate, and participate in Team meetings and ensure required documentation, timelines, and procedural safeguards are met.
Monitor student progress toward IEP goals and complete progress reporting in accordance with district and state requirements.
Coordinate services among general education teachers, related service providers, administrators, outside agencies, and families.
Maintain accurate, organized, and confidential special education records.
Serve as the primary point of contact for families regarding assigned students' special education programs and services.
Foster positive, respectful relationships with students and support their academic, behavioral, social, emotional, and functional development.
Promote student self-advocacy, independence, executive functioning, and self-regulation skills.
Implement behavioral supports and interventions consistent with student needs and district practices.
Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of assigned students.
Establish collaborative partnerships with families through timely, respectful, ongoing communication.
Collaborate with school staff to support student success in the least restrictive environment.
Participate in multidisciplinary problem-solving and instructional planning.
Consult with colleagues about accommodations, modifications, and instructional strategies that promote student access and progress.
Maintain confidentiality and uphold legal and ethical responsibilities related to student information.
Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and ethical practice; communicate effectively in writing and verbally; accept feedback; and engage in reflection and professional growth.
Fulfill assigned duties in accordance with district procedures, School Committee policies, and collective bargaining agreements.
Maintain regular attendance and reliability, contribute positively to the school community, and support district priorities related to equity, inclusion, and student achievement.