Exceptional Learning Elementary Autism Teacher

Young World Physical Education; Springfield (MA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Young World Physical Education seeks an Exceptional Learning Elementary Autism Teacher in Springfield, Massachusetts, commencing on August 10, 2026. This role involves creating structured educational environments tailored for students with autism. Responsibilities include developing individualized instructional programs, assessing student progress, and participating in professional development. A Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in the content area along with necessary licensure from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is required.

Qualifications

• Appropriate content and grade-level licensure: Teacher of Severe or Moderate Disability.
• Highly qualified in the content area.
• Maintain accurate and compliant records as required by law.

Responsibilities

• Develop instructional programs addressing individual student needs.
• Create conducive learning environments.
• Prepare and assess students regularly and provide progress reports.
• Supervise paraeducator assignments and evaluations.

Skills

Competency in content area

Classroom management

Effective communication

Data-driven decision-making

Education

Bachelor's Degree with appropriate license

Master's Degree in related field (preferred)

Job description

Exceptional Learning Elementary Autism Teacher

Springfield Public Schools – Office of Exceptional Learning – Springfield, Massachusetts

Starting Date: Aug 10, 2026

Job Description

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 that addresses academic, communication, social, and behavioral needs. Instructional methods 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.

Day‑to‑Day Responsibilities

• Develop instructional programs that address the individual needs, interests, and abilities of students whenever possible.
• Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to students’ maturity and interests.
• Prepare for assigned classes and provide written evidence of preparation upon request, as required by the teachers’ contract.
• Regularly assess student achievement, provide required progress reports, and communicate with parents as necessary.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and compliant records as required by law, district policy, and administrative regulations.
• Regularly identify student learning challenges and seek assistance from district specialists when necessary.
• Taking necessary and reasonable precautions to safeguard students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Adhere to the SPS classroom code of conduct, align with administrative policies, and enforce classroom behavior rules fairly and consistently.
• Plan and supervise paraeducator assignments and complete written evaluations as required.
• Engage in ongoing professional development to meet district requirements and personal professional goals.
• Participate actively in the contractually approved teacher evaluation process and contribute to mutual agreement on evaluation outcomes.
• Attend building and district meetings to promote staff communication and collaborative decision‑making, as scheduled during the extended day.
• Attend 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.
• Contribute to district and building decisions regarding budget, facilities, curriculum, and staff well‑being.
• Strive to maintain and enhance professional competence.

Qualifications

• Highly qualified with required competency in the content area.
• Appropriate content and grade‑level licensure: Teacher of Severe or Moderate Disability (Pre‑K to 2) or (Pre‑K to 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, expected within 5 years.

The Springfield Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, age, disability, veteran status, or marital status. Additionally, we prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose such discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal‑opportunity investigation.