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Long-Term Substitute Special Education Teacher (Elementary School)
Career Insights for Special Education Teacher
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Scorecard
Based on Massachusetts data
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What they do
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.
$82,726 / year median in Massachusetts
+9% projected growth
Job Description
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide specialized instruction to students with disabilities across multiple elementary grade levels
- Collaborate with general education teachers to implement effective co-teaching models
- Design and deliver differentiated instruction in both whole-class and small-group settings
- Develop, implement, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
- Use data to inform instruction and track student progress toward goals
- Support students academic, social, and behavioral development
- Communicate regularly with families, service providers, and team members
- Participate in IEP meetings and multidisciplinary team meetings
- Maintain accurate and compliant documentation
Preferred Skills & Training:
- Training and experience in CKLA (Core Knowledge Language Arts)
- Knowledge of Orton-Gillingham approach to structured literacy
- Experience with Heggerty Phonemic Awareness curriculum
- Strong understanding of structured literacy and phonics-based instruction
- Ability to differentiate instruction for a wide range of learners
- Strong collaboration and communication skills
Key Competencies:
- Flexible and responsive to student needs
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Data-driven decision making
- Commitment to equity and inclusive practices