Special Education Teacher - LEAD Program

Servingschools; Waldoboro (ME); On-site; USD 51,000 - 94,000; Full time

Job summary

RSU 40 is seeking a dedicated LEAD Program Teacher to deliver student-centered instruction for students with significant cognitive and adaptive needs. The role emphasizes communication, functional academics, and independent living skills within a structured classroom.

You will design and implement IEP-based instruction, monitor progress, and collaborate with related services to ensure cohesive programming and successful inclusion in school and community settings.

Qualifications

• Understanding of IEP development and progress monitoring.
• Ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in documenting IEPs and data for compliance.
• Commitment to inclusive, strengths-based instruction.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver instruction aligned with IEP goals and functional skills.
• Develop and implement IEPs with data and progress monitoring.
• Collaborate with OT/PT/Speech/BCBA and ed techs for cohesive programming.
• Create structured classrooms using evidence-based practices and PBIS.

Skills

IEP development

Collaboration

Data collection

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Education

Maine Special Education Teacher Certification

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.

Pay Scale: $51,260 to $94,433 per year

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

Teacher Job Description

Job Goal: To provide effective, research-based instruction that meets the academic and social-emotional needs of students while promoting a positive, inclusive, and respectful classroom culture. The teacher will contribute to the development and implementation of curriculum and instruction aligned with school and district goals, and will participate in professional development and collaborative activities to improve teaching and learning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education or related field; Master's degree preferred
• Valid Maine teacher certification in appropriate content area
• Successful teaching experience, with preference for those with experience in the relevant grade level(s) or subject area(s)

• Knowledge of school curricula, instructional strategies, and special education law
• Ability to differentiate instruction for diverse student needs
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written, with students, parents, and colleagues

• Strong classroom management skills and ability to maintain a positive, productive learning environment
• Strong sense of professional ethics and commitment to continuous learning and professional development

Essential Functions

• Implement and align instructional strategies with district curricula and standards, ensuring that all students have access to rigorous, differentiated learning opportunities
• Collaborate with colleagues to plan and deliver high-quality, student-centered instruction that engages all learners
• Use ongoing formative and summative assessments to evaluate student progress, adapt instruction, and provide timely feedback to students and families
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement by incorporating research-based best practices and utilizing data to inform instructional decisions
• Create and maintain a safe, supportive, and inclusive classroom environment that promotes respect, responsibility, and academic success
• Establish clear expectations for student behavior and apply consistent, fair, and culturally responsive discipline strategies
• Develop/implement individualized behavior plans and interventions for students requiring additional support
• Promote positive relationships with students through proactive communication and a focus on social-emotional learning
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse academic, social, and emotional needs of students, including those with disabilities and English language learners
• Provide targeted interventions and support to students performing below grade level, and challenge those performing above grade level to reach their full potential
• Work closely with special education staff, educational technicians, and support personnel to implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and 504 plans
• Maintain accurate records of student progress, including accommodations and modifications provided, and communicate regularly with parents about student performance and needs
• Actively participate in collaborative team meetings, professional learning communities (PLCs), and school-wide initiatives to improve teaching and learning
• Participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with instructional best practices, educational technology, and trends in education
• Engage in self-reflection, seek feedback from peers and leadership, and demonstrate a commitment to personal growth and professional excellence
• Establish and maintain open, respectful communication with students, parents, and colleagues to build strong, supportive relationships
• Encourage and support family involvement in school activities and student learning
• Participate in data analysis sessions to identify trends, strengths, and areas of improvement at the individual, classroom, and school levels
• Provide timely and meaningful feedback to students on their performance and progress toward meeting academic goals
• Attend faculty meetings, school events, and parent-teacher conferences as required
• Support school and district initiatives and priorities
• Assist with school-wide activities, including assemblies, field trips, and special projects, as assigned by the principal
• Maintain confidentiality about all aspects of student and personnel written and oral records
• Demonstrate respect for the legal and human rights of students and staff
• Follow health and safety procedures established by the District
• Arrive and depart punctually, notifying appropriate personnel about absences and coverage
• Demonstrate dependability, integrity, and other ethical standards
• Perform other duties as required by the Principal, such as lunchroom supervision, hall monitoring, or assisting with school events