Exceptional Learning Elementary Autism Teacher

Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership; Springfield (MA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership is seeking an Exceptional Learning Elementary Autism Teacher in Springfield, Massachusetts. This role involves creating a structured educational environment to support students with autism, utilizing methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Responsibilities include developing individualized instructional programs, assessing student progress, and collaborating with parents and educators. Candidates must possess the appropriate Massachusetts licensure and either a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field. Commitment to continued professional development is required.

Qualifications

• Highly qualified with required competency in the content area.
• Labeled licensure appropriate for PreK-2 or PreK-8.
• Bachelor's or Master's Degree required.

Responsibilities

• Develop instructional programs tailored to individual student needs.
• Maintain compliant and complete student records.
• Regularly assess and report on student achievement.
• Create a conducive classroom environment for learning.
• Engage in ongoing professional development activities.

Skills

Attention to detail

Supportive attitude

Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Communication skills

Classroom management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's Degree with appropriate license

Teacher of Severe or Moderate Disability license

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 for students that addresses academic, communication, social, and behavioral needs. Instructional methodologies 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.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Develop instructional programs that address the individual needs, interests, and abilities of students whenever possible.
• Creates a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to students' maturity and interests.
• Prepares for assigned classes and provides written evidence of preparation upon request, as required by the teachers’ contract.
• Regularly assesses student achievement, provides required progress reports, and communicates with parents as necessary.
• Maintains accurate, complete, and compliant records as required by law, district policy, and administrative regulations.
• Regularly identifies student learning challenges and seeks assistance from district specialists when necessary.
• Takes necessary and reasonable precautions to safeguard students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Adheres to the SPS classroom code of conduct, aligns with administrative policies, and enforces classroom behavior rules fairly and consistently.
• Plans and supervises paraeducator assignments and completes written evaluations as required.
• Engages in ongoing professional development to meet district requirements and personal professional goals.
• Participates actively in the contractually approved teacher evaluation process and contributes to mutual agreement on evaluation outcomes.
• Attends building and district meetings to promote staff communication and collaborative decision-making, as scheduled during the extended day.
• Attends 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.
• Contributes to district and building decisions regarding budget, facilities, curriculum, and staff well-being.
• Strives 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 (PreK-2) (PreK-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 and expected within 5 years.

Springfield Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy related conditions, ancestry, age, disability, or military service. Additionally, we prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity investigation.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Springfield Public Schools does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy related conditions, ancestry, age, disability or veteran status. The school also prohibits discrimination based on marital status and provides protection against discrimination and retaliation according to federal and state law.