Impactful Transitions Academy SPED Teacher (Ages 18–22)

Holyoke Public Schools; Holyoke (MA); On-site; USD 57,000 - 93,000; Full time

Job summary

Holyoke Public Schools seeks a Transitions Academy Special Education Teacher to serve students ages 18–22 with disabilities, guiding functional academics, independent living skills, vocational development and postsecondary readiness. You will develop IEP-aligned plans, collaborate with families and partners, manage work-based learning, and maintain accurate records.

A valid Massachusetts Moderate Disabilities license (grades 5–12) and one year teaching experience are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Valid Massachusetts Moderate Disabilities license for grades 5–12 required.
• At least one year of full-time teaching experience.
• At least three years of experience supporting students with autism in an inclusive setting.
• Experience working with students ages 18–22 or providing transition services preferred.
• Knowledge of IEP development, transition planning, person-centered planning, and community-based instruction.
• Ability to interpret and apply student performance data to instructional planning.
• Commitment to supporting the academic, vocational, social, and independent-living success of every student.
• Strong written, verbal, organizational, and teamwork skills.
• Experience working in an urban school setting preferred.
• Experience working with diverse student populations preferred.
• Bilingual applicants, particularly Spanish-speaking applicants, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a Moderate Disabilities Special Education Teacher for students ages 18–22.
• Develop lesson plans and provide targeted instruction aligned with students’ IEP goals.
• Provide instruction in functional academics, vocational skills, social skills, independent living, and postsecondary readiness.
• Assist with the development and implementation of person-centered plans.
• Ensure that all IEP services, accommodations, and modifications are implemented consistently.
• Develop individualized transition activities based on each student’s needs, interests, strengths, and vision for adulthood.
• Plan and support work-based learning, community-based instruction, travel training, recreational opportunities, and other real-world learning experiences.
• Collaborate with families, school staff, community partners, and adult service agencies to coordinate transition planning and services.
• Maintain positive and consistent communication with families through outreach, progress updates, meetings, and family events.
• Create a safe, supportive, and engaging classroom environment that promotes independence and self-advocacy.
• Use a variety of instructional strategies, materials, and technology to meet individual student needs.
• Establish and communicate clear objectives for lessons, units, projects, and community-based activities.
• Regularly assess student progress, provide required progress reports, and use data to adjust instruction.
• Maintain accurate and complete student records in accordance with state law, district policy, and administrative requirements.
• Participate in IEP meetings, staff meetings, professional learning, and school committees as required.
• Plan and supervise purposeful assignments for paraprofessionals, educational coaches, and volunteers.
• Support the professional growth and evaluation of assigned support staff in collaboration with school leadership.
• Maintain and strengthen professional knowledge related to special education and transition programming.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Strong written communication

Strong verbal communication

Organizational skills

Teamwork

Bilingual (Spanish) encouraged

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Massachusetts Moderate Disabilities license (grades 5–12)

Job description

Holyoke Public Schools seeks a Transitions Academy Special Education Teacher to serve students ages 18–22 with disabilities, guiding functional academics, independent living skills, vocational development and postsecondary readiness. You will develop IEP-aligned plans, collaborate with families and partners, manage work-based learning, and maintain accurate records.

A valid Massachusetts Moderate Disabilities license (grades 5–12) and one year teaching experience are required.