Special Education Teacher- Stars School

Stars School is a growing, student-centered special education school serving students with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities. We are committed to providing a structured, supportive, and academically rigorous learning environment in which every student can experience success.

We value educators who bring expertise, enthusiasm, creativity, and a strong belief in the potential of every student. We are committed to building an inclusive school community that reflects and respects the diverse backgrounds, identities, experiences, and perspectives of our students, families, and staff.

Position

Special Education Teacher — Full-Time

Position Summary

The Special Education Teacher is responsible for the daily management of the classroom and the delivery of specially designed instruction aligned with students’ Individualized Education Programs, the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, and the instructional model of Stars School and Learning Center.

The teacher will provide explicit, systematic, diagnostic, and multisensory instruction to students with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities. The teacher will develop engaging lessons, monitor student progress, maintain regular communication with families, supervise classroom support staff, and collaborate closely with teachers, reading specialists, related-service providers, and school administrators.

Responsibilities

· Develop and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with students’ IEP goals and the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.

· Differentiate instruction to meet students’ academic, language, executive-functioning, social-emotional, and behavioral needs.

· Provide explicit, systematic, diagnostic, and multisensory instruction appropriate for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities.

· Provide daily Orton-Gillingham instruction and reinforce structured literacy strategies throughout the school day.

· Provide direct individual, small-group, and classroom instruction.

· Use assessment results, classroom performance, and progress-monitoring data to guide instructional decisions.

· Develop and maintain effective data-collection systems to measure student progress toward IEP goals and curriculum standards.

· Administer academic assessments, curriculum-based measures, and schoolwide progress-monitoring tools.

· Prepare accurate and timely IEP progress reports, educational assessments, annual-review information, and reevaluation reports.

· Participate actively in IEP Team meetings and collaborate with Team members to develop appropriate, measurable, and legally compliant IEPs.

· Implement positive behavior supports, incentive systems, visual supports, and developmentally appropriate interventions.

· Incorporate executive-functioning, organizational, self-advocacy, and social-emotional skills into classroom instruction and routines.

· Establish a structured, predictable, respectful, and supportive classroom environment.

· Supervise and guide paraprofessionals and other classroom support staff in implementing instruction, accommodations, behavior plans, and data-collection procedures.

· Collaborate with teachers, reading specialists, administrators, therapists, and other service providers to ensure coordinated and consistent programming.

· Provide students with appropriate accommodations, assistive technology, and alternative methods for accessing the curriculum and demonstrating their knowledge.

· Support students during transitions between activities, classrooms, and school settings.

· Maintain consistent communication with parents and caregivers regarding student progress, classroom activities, and areas of concern.

· Encourage family involvement and develop positive, respectful relationships with students and families.

· Prepare students for MCAS and participate in the development and administration of MCAS accommodations or alternate assessments when applicable.

· Maintain accurate student records and complete all required documentation within established timelines.

· Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, school events, and other activities that support the mission and continued growth of Stars School and Learning Center.

· Maintain classroom materials, instructional resources, technology, and learning spaces.

· Perform other responsibilities assigned by the School Director or designee.

Required Qualifications

· Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in special education, education, or a related field.

· Current Massachusetts DESE licensure as a special education teacher or eligibility to obtain the appropriate licensure.

· Current Orton-Gillingham certification from a recognized training organization.

· Experience teaching students with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities.

· Knowledge of the science of reading and evidence-based structured literacy practices.

· Demonstrated ability to provide explicit, systematic, diagnostic, and multisensory instruction.

· Knowledge of special education laws and regulations, IEP development, the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, and state assessment requirements.

· Ability to develop and differentiate instruction based on students’ individual learning profiles and IEP goals.

· Ability to collect, analyze, and use student data to guide instruction and measure progress.

· Strong classroom-management, organizational, collaboration, and communication skills.

· Commitment to maintaining high expectations while providing students with the specialized support necessary to succeed.

Preferred Qualifications

· Advanced Orton-Gillingham certification or certification through the Orton-Gillingham Academy.

· Experience working in a language-based special education school or substantially separate classroom.

· Experience administering academic assessments and curriculum-based progress-monitoring tools.

· Experience supporting students’ executive-functioning, social-emotional, and self-advocacy skills.

· Familiarity with assistive technology used to support students with language-based learning disabilities.

Terms of Employment

· Full-time, school-year position.

· Reports to the School Director or designee.

· Salary is commensurate with education, licensure, training, and relevant experience.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Stars School and Learning Center is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and building an inclusive school community. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and the needs of our students and school.

Stars School and Learning Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Candidates from diverse backgrounds and candidates who share our commitment to creating an inclusive, respectful, and supportive educational community are strongly encouraged to apply.