PK- 8 Special Education Teacher - Shaker Mountain Union 70 School District - Richmond

Richmond Consolidated School is seeking a passionate and dedicated Special Education Teacher to work with students in grades Pre-K through 8. The successful candidate will create an inclusive and supportive learning environment tailored to the individual needs of students, including those with diverse learning abilities. This role will support the development of lifelong learners, fostering a culture of care, belonging, and academic achievement.

• Develop and implement individualized education programs (IEPs) for students with special needs, ensuring that goals are tailored to support the academic, social, and emotional development of each student.
• Modify curriculum to meet the unique needs of students on your caseload, ensuring the appropriate accommodations and modifications are made to support academic success.
• Provide direct and indirect instructional support to students in grades PK-8, ensuring that lessons are adapted to meet diverse learning styles and abilities.
• Collaborate with general education teachers, paraprofessionals, and other staff to ensure that students with disabilities are included in the classroom and receive appropriate services and accommodations.
• Lead and supervise special education paraprofessionals, ensuring they are effectively supporting students and contributing to the learning environment.
• Foster a positive and respectful classroom environment where all students feel a sense of belonging and can actively engage in learning.
• Assess and monitor students' progress frequently, using both formal and informal assessments to inform instructional decisions and adjust teaching strategies as necessary.
• Implement strategies for managing behavior, social skills development, and emotional regulation, using a strengths-based and solution-focused approach.
• Implement positive discipline strategies and conflict-resolution techniques that emphasize fairness, empathy, and a culture of care.
• Collaborate with parents, guardians, and the broader school community to ensure that students’ needs are met, and to encourage their active participation in the educational process.
• Develop and deliver specific interventions for students who require additional support, both academically and socially.
• Create a classroom environment that is well-organized, inclusive, and promotes a positive atmosphere for learning, where students of all abilities feel safe and valued.
• Support and guide students in developing skills for independent learning, problem-solving, and self-advocacy.
• Lead team meetings and participate in meetings, including IEP meetings, to collaborate with other professionals in the development and review of students' plans and progress.
• Complete initial and three-year evaluations.
• Support students with toileting needs in Pre-K, ensuring dignity, comfort, and independence, while maintaining a respectful and supportive environment.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date student records, including IEP documentation, progress reports, and any other relevant materials required by the school or state.
• Provide professional development and training to staff on special education topics, including differentiation strategies and best practices for supporting students with disabilities.

Qualifications & Skills:
Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Valid Massachusetts teaching certification in Special Education, with a focus on moderate or severe disabilities PK-8.
• Experience working with students with disabilities, including those with diverse needs such as learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, emotional disabilities, and other special education needs.
• Knowledge of Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and state special education regulations.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively collaborate with teachers, parents, and other members of the school community.
• Ability to develop and implement individualized and inclusive instructional strategies that foster a sense of belonging and promote academic success.
• Experience with data collection, progress monitoring, and assessment tools for students with disabilities.
• Understanding of best practices in classroom management, behavior modification, and social-emotional learning.
• Patience, flexibility, and a deep commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment for all students.

Key Competencies:

• Compassion, patience, and respect for students of all abilities, fostering a culture of care, respect, and inclusion.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to support a diverse group of students with varying needs.
• Ability to develop and implement individualized instructional strategies that meet the specific needs of each student.
• Collaborative mindset, working well with staff, students, and families to create a comprehensive support system for students with disabilities.
• Flexibility and adaptability to respond to changing student needs and evolving educational priorities.
• Strong problem-solving skills to address challenges that may arise in the classroom or with individual students.
• Dedication to professional growth and ongoing learning about best practices in special education.

Work Environment & Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Professional development opportunities to support lifelong learning and growth.
• Supportive and collaborative school community that embraces diversity, fostering a culture of belonging and care.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health and retirement plans.
• Positive working environment that prioritizes student success, professional growth, and community-building.

Richmond Consolidated School is committed to providing a nurturing, high-quality education that supports the development of each child. We encourage educators from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply and help us foster a strong foundation for lifelong learning, embracing our core values of diversity, respect, community, and care.

To Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and references to:
Dr. Beth N. Choquette, Superintendent/Principal
1831 State Road
Richmond, MA 01254
(413) 698-2207; bchoquette@richmondconsolidated.org

Richmond Consolidated School is an equal opportunity employer. RCS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals feel valued and respected.