Special Education Teacher / ASD - SMS
Position Type:Special Education Teacher/Special Education TeacherDate Posted:5/21/2026Location:Swift Middle SchoolDate Available:08/20/2026Closing Date:06/12/2026Additional Information: Show/HideSpecial Education TeacherPosition Title: Special Education Teacher - Autism Spectrum Disorder ClassroomLocation: Swift Middle SchoolPosition Reports To: Interim Director of Special Education and Pupil Personnel Services andBuilding AdministratorJob ID: #2564Internal Close Date: May 29, 2026External Close Date: June 12, 2026Anticipated Start Date: Upon Completion of Onboarding; Contractual year begins July 1; First dayof school year is August 20, 2026Position OverviewWe are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Special Education Teacher to lead our middle school-level autism spectrum disorder (ASD) classroom. The ideal candidate will have expertise in working with students on the autism spectrum and a passion for helping them reach their full potential. Responsibilities include but are not limited to delivering academic instruction, data collection and analysis, and the creation and implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for all students in the program.Required CertificationsCurrent State of Connecticut Teaching Certificate #065, #165 or #265QualificationsBachelor's degree in Special Education; Master's degree preferredValid state teaching license with Special Education (autism endorsements preferred but not required)2+ years of experience teaching students with autism spectrum disorders preferredIn-depth knowledge of evidence-based practices for teaching students with ASD and/or developmental disabilitiesStrong skills in applied behavior analysis (ABA) and other autism-specific interventionsExcellent communication and interpersonal skillsPatience, creativity, and ability to build positive relationships with studentsEssential Skills, Knowledge Performance AbilitiesInstructional Planning and DeliveryDevelop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with ASD and other developmental disabilitiesPrepare and deliver engaging, interactive lessons designed to ensure all students reach their potentialCreate individualized and specific lesson plans addressing core academic subjects, social skills, communication, and life skillsProvide differentiated and integrated instruction across all academic content areasIncorporate social-emotional learning objectives into lesson plansImplement evidence-based strategies and utilize trauma-informed teaching practicesAdapt the learning environment to meet sensory needs of students with ASDUtilize visual supports, structured teaching methods, and assistive technology appropriate for students with ASDStudent Support and Case ManagementCase manage the development and implementation of IEPs for assigned studentsConduct diagnostic evaluations to identify learning issues and social-behavioral needsObserve, collect data, and evaluate students' progress toward achieving IEP goals and objectivesCreate and coordinate student schedules with behavior technicians, paraeducators, related services providers, and general educatorsImplement effective behavioral strategies, positive behavior support, and crisis intervention techniques as neededModify and accommodate for students with special needs to facilitate their access to classroom instruction, activities, field trips, and recreational opportunitiesCollaboration and CommunicationWork effectively with a multidisciplinary team of professionals to coordinate appropriate servicesCollaborate with general education teachers to support inclusion and mainstream opportunitiesAssist teaching staff in implementing students' IEPs and behavior management plansDirect, schedule, and assist in training paraprofessional staff to support students' learningEncourage parental involvement and ensure effective communication with students and parents/guardiansPrepare and share reports on students' performance and progressClassroom and School CultureWork to create a positive classroom and school cultureImplement effective behavioral strategies and techniques as neededProvide guidance and training to classroom aides and paraprofessionalsProfessional Development and ExpertiseEngage in continued growth through professional learning focused on best practices for students with ASDDevelop familiarity with assistive technology and alternative communication systemsMaintain accurate records and documentation of student progressStay current with special education laws, regulations, and best practicesThe successful candidate will join our collaborative team in creating a supportive, structured learning environment where students with ASD can thrive academically and socially. If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children with autism or developmental disabilities, we encourage you to apply.Additional Duties* This position reports to the Director of Special Education and Pupil Personnel Services* Perform all other duties that may be assigned by the Director of Special Education and Pupil Personnel Services and/or the Building AdministratorTerms of EmploymentCommensurate with working agreement between the Watertown Board of Education and the Watertown Education AssociationWork Schedule* Monday - Friday, 7:30am-2:40pmAll application materials must be submitted online, through Applitrack; should you have any difficulty in submitting your online application please contact (860)945-4813.* District reserves the right to close the posting if a suitable candidate is found prior to the external closing date.Attachment(s):* #2564 Special Education Teacher _ ASD - SMS.pdf