Preschool Teacher (0.9 FTE)

The Preschool Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing a developmentally appropriate, inclusive preschool program that promotes the academic, social-emotional, language, physical, and adaptive development of all students. The teacher creates a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment while collaborating with families and multidisciplinary teams to meet the needs of children with and without disabilities. Instruction is aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, the Massachusetts Guidelines for Preschool Learning Experiences, and all applicable state and federal regulations.

Essential Responsibilities Instruction and Curriculum Plan and implement developmentally appropriate instruction aligned with the Massachusetts Guidelines for Preschool Learning Experiences and district curriculum. Design engaging learning experiences that promote language, literacy, mathematics, social-emotional development, executive functioning, play, and independence. Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners. Utilize play-based, hands-on, and inquiry-based instructional practices.

Assessment Conduct ongoing observations and authentic assessments to monitor student progress. Collect and analyze data to inform instructional planning and interventions. Maintain accurate records of student performance and developmental progress. Prepare progress reports and documentation for families and IEP teams.

Inclusive Practices Foster an inclusive classroom environment that supports students with diverse learning needs. Implement accommodations, modifications, and specially designed instruction as outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Collaborate with general education teachers, related service providers, and paraprofessionals to ensure student success. Support positive behavior using evidence-based practices and proactive classroom management strategies.

Collaboration Participate actively in IEP meetings, eligibility meetings, and multidisciplinary team meetings. Collaborate regularly with speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, school psychologists, adjustment counselors, BCBAs, and special educators. Supervise and provide guidance to paraprofessionals assigned to the classroom. Participate in professional learning communities and district professional development.

Family Engagement Develop positive partnerships with families through regular communication and collaboration. Provide families with information regarding student progress, classroom activities, and strategies to support learning at home. Participate in parent conferences and school events.

Classroom Environment Create a welcoming, safe, and engaging classroom that promotes independence, communication, and social interaction. Maintain organized learning centers and developmentally appropriate classroom materials. Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and confidentiality requirements.

Professional Responsibilities Maintain appropriate licensure and participate in ongoing professional development. Demonstrate professionalism consistent with the Massachusetts Educator Evaluation Framework. Maintain confidentiality regarding student records and family information. Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal or Director of Student Services. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Strong understanding of early childhood development. Knowledge of special education law and inclusive instructional practices. Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Strong organizational and classroom management skills. Commitment to equity, inclusion, and supporting the success of all learners.

Physical Requirements Ability to actively supervise and engage with young children throughout the school day. Ability to lift, assist, and support young children as needed. Ability to participate in classroom activities, including sitting on the floor, kneeling, bending, and moving throughout the classroom. Evaluation Performance will be evaluated in accordance with the Massachusetts Educator Evaluation Framework and Hampshire Regional School District policies and procedures. Reports To: Principal

Qualifications

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education licensure in: Early Childhood: Teacher of Students With and Without Disabilities (PreK-2), or Teacher of Students With Moderate Disabilities (PreK-8) with appropriate early childhood experience, as required by the position. Bachelor''s degree required; Master''s degree preferred. Knowledge of child development and evidence-based early childhood instructional practices. Experience working in inclusive preschool settings is preferred. SEI Endorsement preferred.

• Collaborate effectively with colleagues on a wide range of tasks.
• Participate actively in IEP, 504, and Child Study meetings
• Participate in professional development opportunities.
• Participate in school-wide decision making and take an active role in school improvement planning.
• Share the responsibility for the performance of all students within the school.

General Expectations:

• Meet routine responsibilities consistently.
• Manage time to accomplish multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Maintain strong attendance and punctuality.
• Work independently with general guidance.
• Maintain cooperative relationships with students and adults.
• Operate standard office equipment including computer, email, and copier.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Support the Principal's goals, philosophies, and overall mission of the school.
• Perform all other duties assigned by the Principal, within contractual guidelines.

District CORI Check required before employment begins Federal Fingerprint Check required before employment begins