Special Education Teacher (ETLA)

Enfield Public Schools

Position Opening: Special Education Teacher - Enfield Transition Learning Academy

Our Mission

"We believe public education is an essential component of a free and democratic society. In a partnership of family, school, community, and local and state government, our mission is to enable all students to meet high standards, make productive choices in their personal lives, contribute to a diverse global society and act as responsible citizens.

To accomplish this, we must seek the necessary resources to:

• Provide a safe, nurturing and academically challenging learning environment.
• Provide students and staff with opportunities to reach their full potential.
• Prepare students to become productive, lifelong learners.
• Instill in our students a curiosity and love for learning which embraces the arts and the world around them.
• Prepare students to become self-reliant, honest, respectful and responsible members of a diverse and global society.
• Improve student learning by holding staff accountable for providing the most effective learning environment and using the most effective teaching strategies."

About the Role

Enfield Public Schools is seeking a compassionate and skilled Special Education Teacher to join the Enfield Transition Learning Academy (ETLA). This program supports students aged 18-22 with disabilities as they transition from high school to adult life. The ideal candidate will be committed to empowering young adults through instruction in life skills, vocational readiness, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) with a focus on transition goals.
• Deliver instruction in independent living skills, employment readiness, and community-based learning.
• Collaborate with families, job coaches, adult service agencies, and community partners.
• Support students in real-world environments such as job sites, public transportation, and local businesses.
• Apply evidence-based practices including task analysis, visual supports, and self-determination strategies.
• Track and report student progress toward transition outcomes.
• Participate in Planning and Placement Team (PPT) meetings and interagency transition planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Special Education or related field.

• Valid Connecticut Special Education Certification:

• Endorsement 065 - Comprehensive Special Education, or

• Endorsement 165 - Special Education: Blind, Partially Sighted, and Multiple Disabilities.

• Eligibility for a Connecticut Initial Educator Certificate, which includes:

• Completion of a state-approved educator preparation program.

• Passing scores on required Praxis exams.

• Understanding of transition-only services as defined by the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE), including coordinated, individualized activities that support postsecondary goals.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with community-based instruction and vocational training.
• Familiarity with Connecticut adult service systems (DDS, BRS, DMHAS).
• Training in assistive technology, person-centered planning, and functional life skills curriculum.

Best Practices in Transition Programming

The Enfield Transition Learning Academy is guided by best practices in adult transition education, including:

• Student-centered planning that reflects individual strengths, interests, and goals.
• Community-based instruction to promote independence and generalization of skills.
• Interagency collaboration to ensure continuity of services post-graduation.
• Functional, real-world curriculum that prepares students for employment, independent living, and lifelong learning.
• Data-driven instruction to monitor progress and inform teaching strategies.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement plan options.
• Ongoing professional development.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.