Special Education Teacher Support Services (SETSS/Resource Teacher)

SETSS Teacher School Year 2026 - 2027

About Little Water Prep:

Little Water Prep is a growing K-5 public charter school in Poughkeepsie, New York, committed to providing a nurturing and academically rigorous environment for all students. As we enter our fifth year, we are deepening our commitment to excellence by upholding high expectations and consistent academic and behavioral standards for every scholar. We believe that, like water, every student is essential and capable of achieving at high levels when placed in environments that are both challenging and affirming. Now serving over 300 students within the Poughkeepsie City School District, we continue to grow as a community grounded in strong systems, meaningful relationships, and measurable results.

Job Summary:

The SETSS Teacher at Little Water Prep provides specially designed, standards-aligned instruction and support to scholars with disabilities in accordance with their IEPs. This role differentiates instruction to ensure access to grade-level curriculum, fosters academic growth and independence, and uses data to monitor progress toward goals. The SETSS Teacher collaborates with general education teachers, related service providers, school leadership, and families to support student success across settings, while maintaining compliance with special education requirements and building a structured, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.

Key Responsibilities Instructional Excellence:

Provide specialized instructional support to students with IEPs in both push-in and pull-out settings Support implementation of the Little Water Prep curriculum and New York State Next Generation Learning Standards Use research-based strategies to reinforce skills in literacy, math, and other targeted areas Differentiate instruction to meet individual student needs and IEP goals Collaborate with classroom teachers to ensure access to grade-level content and accommodations Ensure consistent progress toward IEP goals through ongoing instruction, monitoring, and documentation; participate in IEP meetings and write PLOPs (Present Levels of Performance) and related instructional plans. Integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) and culturally responsive practices into instruction

Classroom Management and Culture:

Support the development of structured, positive, and inclusive learning environments across instructional settings Build strong, supportive relationships with students rooted in respect, empathy, and high expectations Implement restorative practices and positive behavior supports in collaboration with classroom teachers Reinforce safe, inclusive, and affirming environments for students with IEPs Follow all school safety protocols to ensure physical and emotional safety in all settings

Data-Driven Instruction:

Use formative and summative assessments to monitor student learning Analyze data to inform instruction and adjust teaching strategies Collaborate with colleagues to plan targeted interventions and enrichment Support implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

Collaboration and Professional Growth:

Participate in team meetings and ongoing professional development Collaborate with teachers to gather and analyze student data to inform instruction Work with instructional leaders and colleagues to strengthen instructional practice Set professional goals, seek feedback, and engage in continuous reflection Contribute to school improvement initiatives, including pilots and action research

Family and Community Engagement:

Build strong relationships with families through consistent communication Provide regular updates on student academic and social-emotional progress Facilitate conferences and family engagement opportunities

Additional Responsibilities:

Model professionalism, a growth mindset, and commitment to the school's mission Participate in school-wide events and community-building activities and systems Perform other duties as assigned

Physical and Logistical Requirements:

Work extended hours as needed for events or programming Lift and carry up to 20 pounds (e.g., materials, student work) Navigate stairs and move between floors as needed Maintain consistent, on-site attendance during school hours and events

Qualifications:

Masters degree in Special Education or a related field (Master's preferred) Valid New York State Special Education certification (or in progress) Minimum of 2 years experience working with students with disabilities Strong instructional and intervention skills to support diverse learning needs Knowledge of IEP development, implementation, and progress monitoring Experience using data to inform instruction and track student progress toward goals Strong collaboration and communication skills when working with teachers, families, and service providers

Compensation:

Salary Range:

$60,000 - $70,000 (commensurate with experience) Benefits include: health, dental, paid time off, retirement options, and professional development Compensation is based on qualifications, experience, and certifications

Pay:

$60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person