Lead Special Education Teacher

Job Description

The St. Gabriel Program at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School serves and supports young men and women with a learning difficulty or other diagnosis that interferes with their ability to be successful in a traditional classroom. The Lead Special Education Teacher for the St. Gabriel Program will ensure individualized instruction, foster social and life skills development, and supports academic achievement in alignment with the school's mission to form intellect, character, and faith in a diverse community. The position is for the 2025-2026 school year, with an anticipated start date of August 1, 2025 or sooner.

Key Position Responsibilities:
Program Coordination
- Lead and manage the St. Gabriel Program, ensuring it aligns with the school's mission and goals.
- Collaborate with school administrators, counselors, parents, and staff to develop and implement Student Accommodation Plans (SAPs) and Individualized Graduation Pathways (IGPs).
- Monitor and evaluate the academic and social growth of students enrolled in the program.

Instruction and Curriculum Development
- Develop and deliver specialized instruction in a small classroom setting for core subjects, including Math, English, and Science.
- Collaborate with teachers to adapt and modify curriculum for traditional classes such as History, Theology, Fine/Performing Arts, and PE/Health to meet individual student needs.
- Implement evidence-based teaching strategies tailored to students' abilities and learning styles.

Support and Accommodation Management
- Provide accommodations such as extended time for tests, alternative testing environments, and use of assistive tools (e.g., calculators, audiobooks).
- Apply modifications, including adapted materials, simplified text, and customized assessments.
- Guide peer mentors in supporting students within traditional classroom settings.

Student Development
- Promote life skills and social skills through structured lessons.
- Encourage active participation in school activities and foster inclusion within the school community.
- Assess and address behavioral and emotional needs to support overall well-being.

Documentation and Communication
- Maintain accurate records, including psycho-educational evaluations, progress reports, and communications with parents and external providers.
- Conduct periodic reviews of student performance and program effectiveness.

Training and Professional Development
- Mentor and train peer mentors to assist students in traditional classrooms effectively.
- Stay informed on best practices in special education and attend relevant professional development opportunities.

Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Valid teaching certification in Special Education.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working with students with intellectual disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorders.
• Strong understanding of the development and implementation process for individualized student learning plans
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Catholic education.

Preferred Skills:
• Experience in life skills and social-emotional learning curriculum design.
• Familiarity with assistive technology and accommodations for students with special needs.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders.

The Lead Special Education Teacher will report to the school's administration and work closely with teachers, counselors, and parents. Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and references to Principal Claire Willis, cwillis@bmhs.us.

About the Employer

Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School develops students in their pursuit of excellence. In partnership with committed families, our dedicated faculty form the faith, character, and intellect of young men and women within an engaged, diverse community grounded in the Catholic tradition.