1.0 FTE Long-Term Substitute Special Education Teacher (December 2025 - March 2026)

Reading Public Schools•Reading, MA

52d

About The Position

The Special Education Teacher is to help student learn subject matter and skills, subject to Special Education Laws, that will contribute to their educational development, in consideration of their cognitive learning abilities.

Requirements

Ability to apply knowledge of current research and theory in the educational field
Ability to plan and implement lessons based on district and school objectives and the needs and abilities of students to whom assigned
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups including staff, parents and the general public
Ability to read, analyze and interpret professional periodicals and journals, technical procedures and governmental regulations
Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals
Ability to use reasoning ability to evaluate information and determine/recommend an appropriate course of action
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions
Ability to use professional literature, evidence-based research, and continuing education content to make practice decisions
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, staff and the community
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and manage several projects simultaneously
Uses instructional technology appropriately and works with students to facilitate their use of instructional technology
Ability to perform duties with awareness of all district requirements, state and federal laws, and Board of Education policies
Knowledge of special education procedures to maintain appropriate confidential records
Ability to react professionally and objectively to unpredictable situations (e.g. environmental changes, behavior/aggression, seizure activity, etc.)
Ability/willingness to plan, coordinate, conduct and participate in ongoing professional and staff development
Ability to operate a computer and related software including but not limited to Microsoft Office Suite
Experience writing IEPs
Competence regarding special education law and regulations
Experience evaluating student skills and writing reports to interpret/summarize findings
Strong collaborative, teaching, coaching and leadership skills to support student programming and work in a team setting
Strong problem-solving skills to support student success
Strong data-collection skills to help to inform decisions for students
Strong organizational skills to balance the demands of a multi-tasking position
Minimum of baccalaureate degree, master's degree preferred.
Teachers must possess valid Massachusetts teacher licensure appropriate to their student population, such as:
Students with social-emotional/behavioral disorders-Teacher of Moderate Special Needs
Students with cognitive/communication/global needs-Teacher of Severe Disabilities

Responsibilities

Teaches district-approved curriculum.
Develops appropriate instructional materials, activities, & lesson plans, with modifications and accommodations appropriate for individual students taking into consideration cognitive levels and age-appropriateness.
Structures the classroom and establishes and maintains standards of student behavior to achieve an effective learning atmosphere.
Creates an environment for learning through functional and attractive displays, interest centers and exhibits of student's work.
Evaluates students' academic and social growth, keeps appropriate records and prepares progress reports.
Identifies student needs, makes appropriate referrals, and develops and implements individual education plans.
Participates in planning of curriculum goals and relevant student performance objectives.
Helps students to develop individual learning goals and objectives.
Evaluates individual student accomplishment of goals and objectives, records progress, and adjusts individual and group learning activities accordingly.
Works with parents of individual children to help guide the growth and development of the children.
Demonstrates an understanding of definitions, etiology, & characteristics of students' disabilities.
Demonstrates an understanding of Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and Common Core State Standards.
Adapt the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks as needed.
Integrate technology within instruction to increase student comprehension and interest.
Participates in ongoing professional development activities related to student population & certification areas.
Participates (as needed) to physically and safely support students (e.g. Behavior-preventative, blocking, escorts, restraints; Medical-positioning, lifting, guide/escort).
Communicates regularly with parents by means of newsletters, notes, phone calls, conferences, etc.
Is available to students and parents for education-related purposes outside the instructional day.
Works with specialists, related service providers, staff members, parents and outside persons or agencies to assist students with special problems.
Plans and coordinates the work of paraeducators, parents, and volunteers in the classroom and on field trips.
Properly utilizes and conserves physical facilities, equipment and supplies.
Assist in the task of operating the school as a community of cooperative and constructive members.
Maintains an understanding of the philosophies and principles utilized in District-wide programs.
Follows state and federal special education regulations, as outlined in the IDEA and the requirements set forth in 603 CMR 28.00 which are in addition to, or in some instances clarify or further elaborate, the special education rights and responsibilities set forth in state statute (M.G.L. c. 71B), federal statute (20 U.S.C. §1400 et seq. as amended), and federal regulations (34 CFR §300 et seq. as amended).
Follows all standards and indicators to the best of his or her ability, as described in the Reading Public Schools Teacher Assessment Process (TAP).