School: STARS Learning Academy (part of RSEC)

Location: Amherst, NH

Schedule: Full-time, 190 days; potential for additional summer days

Compensation: Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits

Overview

STARS Learning Academy, a trauma-informed therapeutic day school serving students in grades K–4, is seeking a compassionate, skilled Special Education Teacher to provide individualized instruction across all core content areas (ELA, mathematics, science, and social studies). The ideal candidate is student-centered, culturally responsive, and experienced in supporting learners with diverse academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs within a multidisciplinary team.

Key Responsibilities

• Teach and differentiate all core content areas (ELA, math, science, social studies) aligned to standards and student IEPs.

• Develop, implement, and progress-monitor IEPs; write measurable goals, collect/analyze data, and adjust instruction and supports.

• Integrate trauma-informed practices that prioritize safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment.

• Create, implement, and monitor individualized behavior support plans; collect and analyze behavioral data to inform decisions.

• Embed SEL, self-regulation, and executive-function supports into daily instruction and routines.

• Collaborate with related service providers (counseling, OT, SLP), behavior specialists, and families for cohesive, student-centered supports.

• Use Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and assistive technology to increase access and engagement across content areas.

• Administer formative/summative assessments; document progress; contribute to team meetings, eligibility determinations, and annual reviews.

• Maintain a predictable, nurturing, and culturally responsive classroom environment with clear expectations and consistent routines.

• Support transitions within and across grade levels; coordinate with sending/receiving schools as appropriate.

• Participate in professional learning and schoolwide initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in Special Education or related field; Master’s preferred.

• Valid New Hampshire Special Education certification or elementary education (or eligibility within a defined timeframe).

• Experience teaching at the elementary level and supporting students with disabilities, including emotional/behavioral needs and complex learning profiles.

• Knowledge of trauma-informed pedagogy, SEL frameworks, de-escalation/restorative approaches, and behavior support planning with data collection.

• Strong skills in IEP development, data collection/analysis, differentiated instruction across core subjects, and multidisciplinary collaboration.

• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills; commitment to equity and culturally responsive practice.

Preferred Qualifications

• Training/certification in crisis prevention/intervention (e.g., CPI or equivalent).

• Experience with UDL, structured literacy, and/or evidence-based math and reading interventions (e.g., Orton-Gillingham, Wilson, Number Sense routines).

• Familiarity with assistive technology, AAC, and progress-monitoring tools.

• Experience in therapeutic, alternative, or day school settings.

Working Conditions

• Small class sizes and high staff-to-student ratios with embedded clinical and behavioral supports.

• Collaborative team environment with regular consultation from related service providers.

• School calendar (190 days) with potential opportunities for summer programming.

• Ongoing professional development focused on trauma-informed care, SEL, and evidence-based instruction.

• Physical demands consistent with elementary teaching, including active supervision and occasional crisis-prevention support.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.

• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, retirement).

• Paid time off(sick and personal) and professional development opportunities.

• Supportive organizational culture within RSEC with opportunities for growth.

About STARS Learning Academy (RSEC)

STARS Learning Academy, part of the Regional Services and Education Center (RSEC), is a nonprofit therapeutic day school serving students across New Hampshire. We provide individualized academics, clinical support, and family partnership to help young learners build skills, confidence, and readiness for success in school and life.

How to Apply

Please submit a cover letter, resume, certification(s), and three professional references.

Apply Here

For questions, contact: Devin Bandurski at dbandurski@rsec.org

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.