SY 26-27 Special Education Teacher - Students Diagnosed with Autism - Pathways Program

Fitchburg School District•Fitchburg, MA

About The Position

The Special Education Teacher for students diagnosed with autism delivers instruction consistent with district curriculum standards in the Pathways Program, a substantially separate class serving a small group of students with a wide range of developmental needs across multiple grade levels. The teacher provides core and supplemental instruction aligned with Massachusetts curriculum frameworks, each student’s individualized education program (IEP), and applicable intervention models. The role includes adapting instruction and behavioral supports to individual student needs and creating an environment attentive to students’ sensory, communication, and behavioral needs. The teacher collaborates with students, families, colleagues, paraprofessionals, related service providers, home service providers, and district specialists. Faculty responsibilities also include conferences, curriculum and instructional development, participation in department and school activities, and ongoing professional development. The position reports to the Principal/SPSA and is evaluated by the Principal/SPSA. Employment is contingent on successful completion of fingerprinting (NCBC) and CORI requirements before the start of employment. Terms, salary, and work year are negotiated by the Fitchburg School Committee and the Fitchburg Education Association. Competitive and comprehensive health benefits are offered through the City of Fitchburg.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education license in the area: Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities, all levels, or Teacher of Students with Severe Disabilities, all levels.
SEI Endorsement.
Knowledge of current education legislation and regulations.
Ability to work effectively with teachers, support staff, and parents, and to advocate for children and problem-solve.
Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills, and ability to work with all stakeholders.
Commitment to students’ academic and social-emotional growth and achievement.
Commitment to equity and appreciation of diversity, including equitable learning strategies for students with special needs, 504 plans, and English learners.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree.
Autism Endorsement.

Responsibilities

Deliver core and supplemental instruction aligned with Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, the Massachusetts Curriculum Resource Guide, and each student’s IEP.
Implement applied behavior analysis (ABA) instructional and behavioral methodologies tailored to individual student needs, including discrete trials as needed.
Establish fair classroom rules and procedures, maintain order, and supervise students using effective classroom management and school-level tiered supports for social-emotional learning.
Implement individualized student reinforcement and behavioral plans developed with the professional team.
Coordinate with related service providers, including OT, SLP, PT, and BCBA, to incorporate recommendations into individualized student plans.
Coordinate with home service providers or agencies.
Communicate daily with paraprofessionals regarding instructional plans, schedules, and expectations for student support.
Participate in professional meetings focused on best practices and continued academic and social-emotional growth in the Autism program.
Communicate curriculum, supply, and other classroom support needs to school- and district-level special education leadership.
Develop Alternative MCAS assessments as dictated by student IEPs.
Create an environment responsive to students’ sensory, communication, and behavioral needs.
Write student IEP progress reports and goals, and administer required formal and informal assessments.
Differentiate instruction and provide appropriate learning opportunities using the response to intervention (RTI) framework.
Meet and instruct assigned students at designated locations and times.
Guide learning toward curriculum standards and establish clear objectives for lessons, units, and projects.
Implement the district’s mission, educational philosophy, instructional standards, and objectives.
Document student progress and concerns and seek assistance from district specialists when needed.
Promote high standards and expectations for student achievement.
Use innovative approaches and instructional strategies, including technology, to increase student learning and confidence.
Follow district professional practices and policies when working with students, parents, and colleagues.
Attend and participate in faculty meetings and other assigned meetings and activities.
Maintain and improve professional competence through professional development and self-generated activities that meet district expectations and recertification requirements.
Assist administration in implementing policies and rules governing student life and conduct.
Maintain open communication with students, colleagues, and parents about students’ academic and behavioral progress.
Promote equity and appreciation of diversity, including strategies supporting students with special needs, 504 plans, and English learners.
Perform other duties assigned by the building principal or assistant principal.