Special Education Teacher

SY26-27 Van Sickle Prep Middle School Special Education TeacherGrade Level: 6-8Full Time Start Date: August 17, 2026Base Salary: Up to $96,864.45 and commensurate with experienceRole OverviewEducators in the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership are responsible for ensuring that students have access to strong instruction, experience a deep sense of belonging in school, and are prepared for meaningful academic and life opportunities.SEZP educators serve as instructors, mentors, and collaborators. They contribute to school communities that value strong relationships, clear expectations, and continuous improvement—for students and for adults.Core ResponsibilitiesAccess to High-Quality LearningDeliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction using research-based curriculum and effective instructional strategiesEnsure all students can access grade-level content through thoughtful lesson design, scaffolding, and embedded supportsUse student data and formative assessment to adjust instruction and promote academic growthBelonging and School CommunityBuild strong, trusting relationships with students grounded in consistency, respect, and high expectationsContribute positively to a school culture where students feel known, supported, and accountableCollaborate closely with colleagues, including participation in co-teaching teams and professional learning communitiesEngage families as partners through regular communication and shared problem-solvingOpportunity and GrowthSupport students in developing the skills, habits, and confidence needed for success in high school and beyondParticipate actively in professional learning, coaching, and feedback cyclesContribute to the development of future educators by modeling strong practice, hosting residents or student teachers when applicable, and supporting a culture of adult learningAdditional ResponsibilitiesUphold school-wide expectations related to curriculum, assessment, and professional conductPerform other duties as assigned by the PrincipalQualificationsExperience teaching at the middle or high school levelValid Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education license in the appropriate subject and grade level (Moderate Disabilities) required. Candidates not yet licensed may be eligible for a licensure waiver and are encouraged to applyDemonstrated ability to support a range of learners through strong instruction and relationship-buildingBilingual English/Spanish proficiency preferredBachelor's degree requiredIf you meet many—but not all—of the qualifications above, we encourage you to apply. SEZP values educators who are reflective, collaborative, and committed to continuous growth.We encourage you to reach out to us at View email address on click.appcast.io if you have questions about the role or your qualifications. We are happy to help you feel ready to apply!BenefitsSelection as an educator in SEZP recognizes an individual for their outstanding vision, capacity, and commitment to students. Educators in SEZP are eligible for the same competitive benefits available to Educators in the Springfield Public Schools.Educators joining SEZP may also be eligible for the following recruitment incentives, which may be offered individually:Signing bonus in addition to base salaryRelocation award for candidates from regions beyond western MassachusettsAbout the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership:While Massachusetts is consistently ranked as one of the top states for education results in the country, we have one of the highest and most persistent opportunity gaps. The Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership (SEZP) - established in 2015 as a collaboration between Springfield Public Schools (SPS), the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), and the Springfield Education Association (SEA) – seeks to improve the longitudinal life outcomes of the more than 2,500 students in our 8 middle schools.SEZP combines district-based public education with the flexibility of autonomous school models, granting schools meaningful control over curriculum, staffing, scheduling, and budgeting—while maintaining clear accountability for student learning and growth.Across all of its work—including school improvement and educator preparation—SEZP is guided by three core values:Access: Expanding access to strong learning environments, skilled mentors, and clear pathways for students and educatorsBelonging: Building communities where people are known, supported, and accountable to one anotherOpportunity: Preparing students and educators to learn, lead, and thrive over timeNondiscrimination Employment StatementThe Springfield Public Schools does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy related conditions, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, or marital status.Notice of Sex NondiscriminationSpringfield Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, in any education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and its regulations, including in admission and employment.