JOB SUMMARY:
The Music Teacher supports children, adolescents, and young adults with Autism Spectrum
Disorder (ASD) and/or Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). This role ensures the
delivery of high-quality, trauma-informed care in a therapeutic, supportive, and person-centered
environment. The primary responsibility of the Music Teacher is to strengthen students'
academic, behavioral, emotional, and social skills through the use of music. Instruction may
include singing, playing instruments, movement, listening, or musical analysis. Music education
is delivered in small classroom settings with a low student-to-staff ratio and a focus on
individualized and interdisciplinary treatment.

WORK SCHEDULE:
This is a 219-day (including ESY), full-time exempt position. Schedules follow the approved
school calendar and may include occasional after-school meetings, IEP conferences, or school
events.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Plan and deliver developmentally appropriate music instruction aligned with student
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
• Adapt music education content and delivery methods to meet the needs of students with
ASD and/or IDD.
• Use music as a tool for emotional regulation, behavioral support, and social engagement.
• Develop creative and therapeutic musical activities to foster self-expression and build
confidence.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including special education teachers, behavior
specialists, clinicians, and direct care staff.
• Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and professional development trainings.
• Support and implement trauma-informed care practices throughout the classroom and
program setting.
• Collect and document student progress data for educational and clinical records.
• Supervise students during transitions, specials, and other scheduled activities as needed.
• Uphold safety standards and respond to behavioral or crisis situations in alignment with
training and agency policy.
• Maintain classroom instruments, materials, and equipment in good working order.
• Foster a respectful, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.
• Maintain active certification in agency-approved crisis intervention training, including all
required levels of Physical and Psychological Management Training (PMT). Apply
training techniques appropriately to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals
served, staff, and others in the environment. Demonstrate competency in de-escalation
strategies, safe physical interventions, and adherence to agency protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Education

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

SKILLS:
• Strong instructional, planning, and organizational skills
• Effective verbal and written communication
• Ability to adapt music instruction to meet individual student needs
• Classroom management and behavioral intervention techniques
• Collaborative team approach to interdisciplinary treatment
• Compassionate and student-centered mindset
• Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence

KNOWLEDGE:
• Principles and practices of music education, both instrumental and vocal
• Music theory, composition, and history appropriate for K–12 learners
• Special education laws and best practices
• Trauma-informed care strategies
• Educational strategies for individuals with ASD and IDD
• Developmental stages of children and young adults
• Differentiated instruction techniques
• CT State Curriculum Frameworks and IEP implementation

ABILITIES:
• Establish rapport with students, families, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds
• Provide consistent structure and support in a therapeutic classroom
• Design and deliver engaging music lessons aligned with student IEP goals
• Implement behavior support strategies within a trauma-informed framework
• Use data collection to inform instructional decisions
• Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Remain flexible and adaptive in a dynamic classroom environment
• Uphold CT Code of Responsibility for Teachers and agency policies

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from an accredited college or university
• Valid Connecticut Certification in Music Education (K–12)
• Minimum two years’ experience in regular or special education settings preferred
• Training in Risking Connections, CPR, Mandated Reporting, and Professional
Boundaries (training provided post-hire if needed)
• Training in crisis prevention/intervention, CPR, and first aid required (may be completed
post-hire).
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation may be required for community-based
instruction.
• Must be able to obtain certification as an agency-endorsed driver (A- or V-Endorsement
via DMV, post-hire if necessary)

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• Work is performed in a school/classroom setting.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and assist students with physical or behavioral
support as needed.
• Ability to be on feet for extended periods and actively participate in classroom and
community-based learning activities.
• Exposure to behaviors that may require intervention or safety procedures.
• Perform all requirements of crisis management techniques (e.g., PMT) when necessary.

A job description is not meant to be all-inclusive of every task and/or responsibilit