Special Education Teacher

Framingham Public Schools•Framingham, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

To provide direct instruction to students in Special Education Programs in order to deliver Framingham Public Schools’ high expectations for achievement, equal access to high levels of instruction, the achievement of academic proficiency for all students, and the closing of the achievement gap among subgroups within the schools. Support team, school, and district initiatives, provide support to all students’ academic, behavioral, social, emotional and mental health needs to ensure the development of the whole child while adhering to the district’s curriculum. The Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) program serves students on the Autism Spectrum who require more intensive social-pragmatic, academic, and behavioral support. The Program provides intensive behavioral training through ABA, discrete trial training, task analysis, floor time, and total communication techniques in order to develop social skills and academic readiness skills. The Program blends social/developmental as well as behavioral approaches whenever possible to address the educational challenges faced by this population of students. Click here for more information about our amazing benefits! OUR MISSION Framingham Public Schools (FPS) is committed to excellence for all students and to creating a workforce that reflects our community’s rich racial, linguistic, and cultural diversity. Guided by our mission to empower free-thinking, responsible citizens, we value inclusion, equity, and cultural responsiveness in all we do. FPS strives to provide a safe and welcoming environment where every student and staff member can thrive. We actively seek educators and staff who are committed to antiracism, social justice, and civic engagement. We strongly encourage applications from individuals with disabilities and from members of historically underrepresented groups. Framingham Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a culturally responsive, antiracist, and inclusive community where all individuals are valued, respected, and supported to thrive. ABOUT FRAMINGHAM Framingham, Massachusetts, is a vibrant and diverse suburban community located 20 miles west of Boston, serving as a major hub in the MetroWest area. It successfully blends urban convenience with the comfort of New England neighborhoods, characterized by cultural diversity and a strong community spirit. A key asset is the Framingham Public School system, which is committed to equity, inclusion, and student success across its nine elementary schools, three middle schools, and Framingham High School. The district is recognized for its dual language programs, comprehensive special education services, and dedication to serving a diverse student population, preparing all learners for college and careers. Framingham is also home to Framingham State University and offers abundant outdoor opportunities, including Cushing Memorial Park and Callahan State Park. With its blend of educational resources, accessibility, and dynamic community life, Framingham is a welcoming place to live and grow.

Requirements

Valid Massachusetts Teaching License in: Moderate Disabilities (Grades Pre-K-8) and SEI Endorsement.
Framingham Public Schools seeks candidates whose background, teaching, or service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and belonging in all aspects of education.
At least a Bachelor’s Degree in the area of major study.
Experience working with students within the inclusion, small groups, and individual setting.
Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to present information clearly and respond effectively to questions from students, staff, parents, and community members.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional literature, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.
Sound reasoning and problem-solving skills to evaluate information, define problems, collect data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, and recommend appropriate courses of action.
Capacity to use professional literature, evidence-based research, and ongoing professional learning to inform instructional and practice decisions.
Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with students, families, colleagues, and the community.
Strong organizational and time-management skills to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects.
Commitment to performing all duties in compliance with district requirements, state and federal laws, and Framingham Public Schools policies.
Demonstrated cultural proficiency and competence in working with students and families from diverse backgrounds.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and student records.
Professionalism and composure in responding to unpredictable or challenging situations.
Proficiency in using technology and willingness to learn new tools; ability to operate a computer and utilize software, including Google Workspace for Education.
Willingness to plan, coordinate, and participate in ongoing professional learning, coaching, and staff development.
Experience in evaluating student skills, interpreting assessment data, and writing clear, concise reports.
Strong collaborative, instructional, coaching, and leadership skills to support student programming.
Ability to use data effectively to inform instructional decisions and improve student outcomes.
Knowledge of specialized content areas, relevant laws, and educational procedures.
Ability to plan and implement lessons that align with district and school goals.
Proficiency in integrating instructional technology to enhance teaching and learning.
A proactive, reflective, and solution-focused approach to supporting student growth and success.
Experience writing IEPs.
Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and procedures of special education and specialty area(s).
Knowledge of special education procedures to maintain appropriate confidential records.
Thorough knowledge of the principles and methodology of effective teaching of students with disabilities.
Ability to establish and maintain standards of behavior.
Knowledge of relevant technology including the use of technology such as i-pads to individualize instruction.

Responsibilities

Provides direct and indirect research-based specialized instruction to address the instructional goals and objectives contained within each student’s Individualized Educational Program (IEP)
Assesses student progress and determines the need for additional reinforcement or adjustments to instructional techniques
Employs various teaching techniques, methods and principles of learning to enable students to meet their IEP goals
Develops and implements annual IEP plans for students to include: present levels of educational performance, special education needs, instructional goals and objectives, and the special education and related services required to meet those goals
Schedules team meetings and works cooperatively with Team members and others in developing instructional goals and strategies
Coordinates the delivery of special education services in each student's IEP
Creates a positive learning experience with emphasis in individualized instruction using appropriate sources including i-pads
Serves as primary contact for the parent
Conducts special education evaluations and reevaluations
Demonstrates knowledge of the developmental levels of students and the different ways these students learn by providing differentiated learning experiences that enable all students to progress toward meeting intended outcomes and goals
Participates in the Team meeting process
Ensures compliance with IEPs and timelines, maintains accurate and complete student records, and prepares reports on children and activities, as required by laws, district policies, and administrative regulations
Provides instruction with measurable outcomes and challenging tasks making progress towards higher-order thinking skills
Collaborates with the general education teachers to modify and accommodate curriculum, as needed, in accordance with the student’s IEP
Organizes, conducts, and analyzes results from educational assessments to determine progress and use findings to adjust practice and delivery methods
Collaborates and works as a liaison to parents and families
Defines high expectations for the quality of student work and the perseverance and effort required to produce it
Develops students’ interpersonal, group, and communication skills and provides opportunities for students to learn in varied groupings
When applicable, works with and collaborates with paraprofessionals who provide support to the students to ensure consistency and success
Other duties as assigned.