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.
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES/SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Date Posted:
8/11/2026
Location:
Pre-K Date Available:
08/24/2026
Closing Date:
Open until filled
TITLE:
Itinerant Pre-K Special Education Teacher District Wide
POSITION OVERVIEW
Portland Public Schools seeks a skilled, collaborative, and dedicated Special Education Teacher to support Pre-K students in an itinerant, district-wide role. This position provides specially designed instruction across multiple early childhood settings, ensuring that young learners with disabilities receive high-quality, inclusive educational experiences aligned with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This role has a strong emphasis on both direct service and adult coaching. The teacher will deliver individualized and small-group instruction, while also serving as a key resource and first line of support for classroom educators, Education Technicians, and related service providers. Through consultation and collaboration, this position helps ensure consistent, effective implementation of instructional and behavioral strategies across settings to address student's IEP goals. This is an opportunity to have a broad, district-wide impact by strengthening inclusive practices, supporting early childhood teams, and building cohesive systems of support for Pre-K students.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide specialized instruction aligned with students' IEPs in a variety of early childhood settings Plan and implement individualized and small-group instruction to support developmental, functional, and early academic skills; related to students IEP goals Develop, select, and modify instructional plans and materials to meet the diverse needs of Pre-K learners Create structured, engaging learning environments that promote student independence, participation, and inclusion Support students' successful participation in general education Pre-K classrooms Serve in a consultation and coaching role with classroom teachers, Education Technicians, and related service providers to support implementation of instructional strategies, accommodations, and IEP goals Act as a key resource and first line of support for Pre-K teams when problem-solving student needs or classroom challenges for students in referral or with IEPs Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure alignment of instructional practices and services Monitor and evaluate student progress and adjust instruction based on data Maintain appropriate records, ensure compliance with timelines, and follow all required procedures in alignment with IDEA and state regulations Build and sustain strong, respectful partnerships with families Communicate effectively and consistently with students, parents, and staff Monitor appropriate use and care of equipment, materials, and facilities
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Strong background in early childhood development Deep understanding of the teaching and learning process for students with disabilities Knowledge of inclusive practices and behavioral supports for young children Ability to coach and support adults in implementing effective instructional and behavioral strategies Strong collaboration, organization, and problem-solving skills Ability to provide instruction that reflects multiple perspectives and a commitment to equitable and inclusive practices Ability to work effectively with administrators, colleagues, central office staff, families, and community partners Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills Data collection skills to document progress towards student's IEP goals and assess the efficacy of evidence based practices Knowledge and understanding of dual language learners and supporting young children from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
This position serves multiple district sites; travel between locations is required This role supports a manageable caseload across Pre-K programs
CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
Maine State fingerprint (CHRC) authorization. (more info) Maine State Teaching Certificate with one of the following (more info): Endorsement 282 (Teacher of Children with Disabilities, 0-5) Endorsement 286 (Teacher of Students with Severe Disabilities, PK-12) Endorsement 660 (ESOL PK-12) - preferred
EMPLOYMENT DETAILS
Schedule:
School Year, Full Time (1.0 FTE)
Assignment:
Permanent Reports to:
Director of Pre-K Location:
Itinerant, but with home base at
East End Contract:
Part of PEA union (see 2025-2028 CBA here)
Salary:
Based on education and experience, as outlined in
CBA Benefits:
Eligible for benefits as outlined here - Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.
