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.
Special Education Teacher
Perkins School for the Blind
Perkins School for the Blind - Watertown, Massachusetts Job Details
Job ID:
5762091
Application Deadline:
Posted until filled
Posted:
Jun 04, 2026 12:00 AM (UTC)
Starting Date:
Immediately
Job Description
Perkins helps kids with disabilities find their place in the world. An international NGO, we are committed to delivering best-in-class education to children, providing immersive training and support to professionals and families, advocating for inclusion, and accelerating innovation for people with disabilities. At Perkins, we think courageously, act collaboratively, and we own our work. Join a supportive community committed to growth where your work makes a difference.
What you can expect as a
Special Education Teacher:
As our Special Education Teacher, you will provide instructional services for students with multiple disabilities including visual impairment, based on individual needs and evaluate students as required. You will plan, prepare and implement appropriate educational goals for each student as well as provide a variety of adapted materials and aids as appropriate for each student.
Responsibilities:
Meets educational requirements and qualifies for certification/licensure while updating and expanding knowledge
Demonstrates understanding of the general curriculum, expanded core curriculum, and subject matter/area of expertise
Determines present levels of performance by reviewing background information and conducting informal and formal assessments
Develops and prioritizes measurable objectives for learners; plans short term and long term instruction or clinical strategies to address individual objectives.
Establishes and maintains structures, rules, and procedures for learners and sets and maintains high expectations and standards of behavior
Establishes and adapts the environment to make it conducive to learning
Establishes good rapport and maintains respectful relationships with learners, adapting lessons for individuals with diverse needs and various backgrounds
Engages learners by using a variety of approaches and motivating strategies to convey knowledge and develop skills, maximizing instructional/clinical time
Provides positive reinforcement and constructive feedback
Develops performance measures and informs learners of the criteria for success; evaluates learner performance, keeps records, and reports progress in learning; revises instructional plans based on ongoing observation/evaluation information;
Helps create positive, inclusive interpersonal relationships
Shows respect for students, colleagues, administrators, family members, and others, communicating well with, supports, advises, and/or advocates for learners
Collaborates, consults with, and maintains effective communication with outside agency staff, staff at all levels, and family members, and when indicated, provides training
Maintains effective communication and works cooperatively with administrators
Maintains a safe environment and handles emergencies
Maintains a clean, neat, inviting, and well-designed learning environment
Ensures learners' medical needs are met by altering teaching/clinical strategies and following protocols.
Minimum Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in education or relevant field, able to obtain moderate to severe special needs teacher license within 3 years of employment.
Ability to complete and maintain First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and Crisis Prevention and Physical Intervention (CPPI) Certifications
Ability to travel independently
Master's degree in Special Education with a current teacher certification in severe special needs is preferred.
Previous experience working with students with visual impairments or students with severe disabilities is preferred.
We have benefits that put you first, including an employer contributing retirement plan, tuition reimbursement from day one, professional development for our employees, personal days, paid time off and paid sick leave. Our campus is quaint, charming and historical, a perfect mix of legacy and modern buildings. It is located in the heart of Watertown, adjacent to the Charles River and less than 1 mile from food & entertainment at Arsenal Yards.
