LEAD Program Teacher - Special Education

Regional School Unit 40; Waldoboro (ME); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Collaborative team culture

Focus on professional growth

Opportunity for meaningful impact on students

Job summary

A regional education institution in Waldoboro, Maine is seeking a dedicated LEAD Program Teacher to provide individualized instruction for students with significant cognitive and functional needs. Responsibilities include designing IEP-aligned lessons, collaborating with service providers, and fostering a supportive classroom environment. Candidates should possess a Maine Special Education Teacher Certification and experience in special education. This role offers the chance to greatly impact students’ independence and quality of life.

Qualifications

• Maine Special Education Teacher Certification or eligibility required.
• Experience working with students with significant disabilities and complex needs.
• Strong understanding of IEP development and compliance requirements.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver individualized instruction aligned with students' IEP goals.
• Develop and implement IEPs, including data collection and progress monitoring.
• Collaborate with related service providers to ensure cohesive programming.
• Create structured classroom environments using evidence-based practices.
• Support student inclusion in general education settings and community experiences.

Skills

Experience with significant disabilities

IEP development knowledge

Collaboration within multidisciplinary teams

Commitment to inclusive practices

Education

Maine Special Education Teacher Certification (or eligibility)

Job description

LEAD Program Teacher

RSU 40 is seeking a dedicated, student‑centered Special Education Teacher to join our LEAD Program. The LEAD Program supports students with significant cognitive, adaptive, and functional needs through individualized, skills‑based instruction focused on communication, social development, functional academics, and independent living skills.

The LEAD teacher plays a critical role in designing and delivering meaningful instruction that promotes student independence, access to the school community, and preparation for supported living, work, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and deliver individualized instruction aligned with students’ IEP goals, focusing on:
  • Functional academics
  • Communication and social skills
  • Daily living and self‑care skills
  • Executive functioning and independence
• Develop and implement IEPs in compliance with MUSER and IDEA, including data collection, progress monitoring, and written documentation
• Collaborate closely with related service providers (OT, PT, Speech, Social Work, BCBA), ed techs, and BHPs to ensure cohesive programming
• Create structured, predictable classroom environments using evidence‑based practices and positive behavior supports
• Support student inclusion and access to general education settings and community‑based experiences, as appropriate
• Supervise, coach, and support educational technicians and support staff working within the program
• Communicate regularly and collaboratively with families, valuing family input as part of the IEP team
• Participate in professional learning, team meetings, and district initiatives related to special education programming

Required Qualifications

• Maine Special Education Teacher Certification (or eligibility)
• Experience working with students with significant disabilities and/or complex learning needs
• Strong understanding of IEP development, progress monitoring, and compliance requirements
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams
• Commitment to inclusive practices, student dignity, and strengths‑based instruction

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in functional life skills, adaptive programming, or transition planning
• Familiarity with assistive technology, AAC, or community‑based instruction
• Experience supervising or mentoring support staff

Why Join RSU 40 & the LEAD Program

• Collaborative, supportive team culture
• Strong focus on professional growth and shared leadership
• Opportunity to make a meaningful, long‑term impact on students’ independence and quality of life
• District commitment to improving and strengthening special education programming