A Special Education Teacher teaches students who have disabilities, and adapts teaching methods to meet the needs of students. Assesses students and helps to develop individualized education plans that specify the services and accommodations needed for each student. Works in a classroom that includes only students with IEPs, or works with students and teachers in regular classes. For students with severe disabilities, may focus on developing skills for independent living. Works as part of a team that includes therapists, school counselors or social workers.
The Rotating Teacher provides flexible teaching support that fosters asset-based, nurturing, and stimulating learning environments and meets the needs of children across Preschool and Afterschool (K-5) programs within the Cambridge Department of Human Service Programs. This position reports scheduling to the Program Assistant. Working under direct supervision of a designated supervisor as determined by the department head, the Rotating Teacher assists teachers with one-on-one and small-group activities and ensures child safety during trips and transitions.
ESSENTIAL JOB
FUNCTIONS and DUTIES:
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various type of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. Foster a positive classroom environment by supporting children's engagement in activities and routines. Provide nurturing, socially responsive care to all enrolled children. Use an asset-based approach when working with children and families. Assist teachers in facilitating learning activities. This may require working one-on-one with a child or with a small group. Ensure children's safety during outdoor play, on field trips, and while transitioning between locations. Follow and implement the classroom behavior guidance policy and systems. Assist teachers with classroom duties, such as preparing lunch and snacks. Maintain the classroom, including cleanup, as needed. Maintain regular, respectful communication with parents through daily conversations about their child's daily experiences in the program. Fulfill assigned programmatic and/or administrative responsibilities. Participate in meetings convened by the Division Head or Program Manager, including program orientations, training workshops, policy review, and DHSP-required trainings. Maintain professional knowledge by completing required Department of Early Education and Care trainings and meeting educational requirements established by the EEC and the City of Cambridge. Performs related duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience High school diploma or equivalent education, with one (1) year of related experience working with children; an associate degree (preferably in early childhood education, child development, education, or a closely related field) with nine (9) months of half-time related experience; or a bachelor's degree (preferably in early childhood education, child development, education, or a closely related field). First Aid and CPR certification preferred; if not certified, candidates must complete training within six months of hire. Applicants must be 21 years of age or older and successfully pass the EEC background record check process, which includes
CORI, SORI, DCF
checks, and fingerprinting. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Ability to be available daily from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Skill in complying with all Massachusetts EEC regulations, as well as those established by the Childcare Division, DHSP, or the City of Cambridge. Ability to maintain a professional demeanor at all times. Ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups across diverse identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
The Rotating Teacher reports to a designated supervisor as determined by the department head for daily and weekly scheduling and receives direct supervision from program staff.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Does not supervise staff; may provide task guidance to volunteers, interns, or substitutes as assigned.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in classroom, recreational, and community settings and involves frequent transitions between locations, exposure to moderate to high noise levels, regular outdoor activities in varying weather conditions, and occasional travel between program sites within Cambridge.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Ability to supervise and actively engage with children in classroom and outdoor settings, including kneeling, reaching, handling classroom materials, responding quickly to emergencies, and lifting or assisting children weighing up to 40 pounds. Ability to see and hear sufficiently to monitor children's safety and respond to verbal communication, including soft or distressed speech. Ability to travel between sites and participate in occasional field trips as needed. Work is performed in classroom and playground environments with noise levels ranging from moderate to very loud.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Please upload the following documents to complete your application: Resume Cover Letter The City of Cambridge's workforce, like the community it serves, is diverse. Applicants must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies.
