Special Education Liaison - Specialized Program - Newman Elementary School SY26-27

Needham Public Schools is an inclusive, dynamic, and multicultural community seeking an energetic, skilled, and warm Special Education Teacher to join our team. To enhance our goals of supporting every child, Needham Public Schools seeks candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Position Purpose

The Needham Public Schools is seeking a Special Education Teacher to be the lead teacher in our specialized program (Intensive Learning Center) to support students with developmental and intellectual disabilities. This position begins in August 2026. Under the general supervision of the Special Education Coordinator and School Principal, to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills, and activities of daily living by implementing district-approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students'' specific needs; and providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

About Needham Public Schools (NPS): NPS has a deep commitment to the success of our diverse students and families and to the professional accomplishments of its educators. Needham devotes itself to cultural proficiency, equity, and community collaboration to fulfill the vision of the Portrait of a Needham Graduate. This METCO district comprises 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 1 nationally-ranked high school serving approximately 5,500 students. NPS is committed to addressing equity in the district by focusing on improving academic performance for historically marginalized students and ensuring our schools are safe for every child and free of bias, bullying, and hurtful acts that demean and diminish. Read more about our equity work here.

Essential Functions

• Conducts assessments, testing, and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning challenges and opportunities, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.
• Participates in team meetings and assists in developing Individual Educational Programs ("IEP") for students.
• Develops DTT/ABA programs (as needed) for students, develops data tracking, and builds program books.
• Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students'' IEP''s and behavior management plans.
• Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff and related service providers to ascertain individual students'' abilities and needs, including students with special needs.
• Serves as a ready resource to students and parents that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as a liaison between home and school.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops, or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and provides student information and data in order to write progress reports.
• Encourages parental involvement in students'' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Assists in the orientation of new instructional assistants and provides training and guidance as necessary.
• Provides direct instruction across the curriculum, including accommodations and modifications per a variety of student needs.

Additional Duties

• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities

• Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based on student learning styles.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network systems and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Qualifications:

Certification/License:

• Massachusetts State Certification as an elementary Special Education Teacher - moderate / severe special needs
• BCBA credentials preferred

Education:

• Bachelor''s from an accredited college or university in an education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
• Master''s Degree in Special Education.

Experience:

• Successful prior lead teacher experience required
• Experience developing and modifying program books

Compensation and Benefits:

Please review the Unit A contract and this page to learn more about employee compensation and benefits.

Salary is determined by education and experience, ranging from Bachelor's (Step 1) $63,217 to Doctorate (Step 14) $133,922 (This range is based on a 1.0 FTE).

Selection Procedure:

All resumes will be screened, and selected candidates will participate in a thorough interview process.

Application Procedure:

Please apply online.

Applications will be considered only when a cover letter, resume, three letters of recommendation, license, and transcripts have been attached to your online application.

Candidates are encouraged to review the working conditions, wages, and benefits in the Unit A collective bargaining agreement.

The Needham Public School System is a member of METCO, Developing Equity and Achievement for Students (IDEAS), and the Greater Boston School Human Resources Network. Candidates who have a strong commitment to active anti-racism are encouraged to apply.

The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate against students, parents, employees, or the general public on the basis of race, color, sex, homeless status, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or age. In addition to the protected classes identified and in regard to employment practices, the Needham Public Schools also does not discriminate based on genetic information, ancestry, or status as a veteran.