SY26-27 J.F. Kennedy Middle School Speci

SY26-27 J.F. Kennedy Middle School Special Education Teacher (Immediate Opening) Springfield Public Schools KENNEDY MIDDLE SCHOOL - Springfield, Massachusetts Job Description SY26-27 J.F. Kennedy Middle School Special Education Teacher Grade Level: 6-8 Full Time Start Date: (exact start date TBD) Base Salary: Up to $96,864.45 and commensurate with experience Role Overview Educators 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 Responsibilities Access to High-Quality Learning Deliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction using research-based curriculum and effective instructional strategies Ensure all students can access grade-level content through thoughtful lesson design, scaffolding, and embedded supports Use student data and formative assessment to adjust instruction and promote academic growth Belonging and School Community Build strong, trusting relationships with students grounded in consistency, respect, and high expectations Contribute positively to a school culture where students feel known, supported, and accountable Collaborate closely with colleagues, including participation in co-teaching teams and professional learning communities Engage families as partners through regular communication and shared problem-solving Opportunity and Growth Support students in developing the skills, habits, and confidence needed for success in high school and beyond Participate actively in professional learning, coaching, and feedback cycles Contribute to the development of future educators by modeling strong practice, hosting residents or student teachers when applicable, and supporting a culture of adult learning Additional Responsibilities Uphold school-wide expectations related to curriculum, assessment, and professional conduct Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal Qualifications Experience teaching at the middle or high school level Valid Massachusetts DESE educator license in the appropriate subject and grade level required. Candidates not yet licensed may be eligible for a licensure waiver and are encouraged to apply Demonstrated ability to support a range of learners through strong instruction and relationship-building Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency preferred Bachelor?s degree required If 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 [email protected] if you have questions about the role or your qualifications. We are happy to help you feel ready to apply! Benefits Selection 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 salary Relocation award for candidates from regions beyond western Massachusetts About 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