Position Type: Special Education/Special Education Teacher

Date Posted: 8/6/2025

Location: Danbury High School

Closing Date: Open Until Filled Danbury Public Schools is a diverse community located in the western part of Connecticut, serving more than 12,500 students across the City of Danbury. We are committed to cultivating equity and excellence for all students, closing opportunity gaps, and preparing students for post-secondary success. The mission of Danbury Public Schools, in partnership with families and the community, is to provide transformational learning experiences designed to nurture thoughtful and prepared graduates. We have set ambitious and rigorous goals to ensure students graduate prepared to transform the world. Our district includes 13 unique elementary schools-including an interdistrict magnet school for International Studies-three middle schools, including an intradistrict magnet school focused on STEM and World Studies, and the Danbury Career Academies, which provide innovative educational pathways supported by faculty with both academic and real-world experience. DPS recruits and commits to educators with passion who are aligned with our vision to advance all learners to their highest potential.

SUMMARY: The Vocational Training Teacher is responsible for delivering instructional programming that prepares students in Special Education for successful transition into the workforce or post-secondary education and training. This role involves teaching vocational skills in both classroom and community-based settings, coordinating work-based learning opportunities, and supporting student independence through hands-on, career-oriented instruction.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Provide direct instruction in vocational skills aligned with student transition goals. Coordinate and oversee student participation in on-campus and community-based work experiences. Supervise and evaluate daily work crews as part of the TSW/DTP program. Monitor student performance at work sites and maintain quality standards for all vocational tasks. Serve as a case manager for assigned students, developing and implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) related to vocational goals. Maintain accurate student records, including attendance, progress reports, and job evaluations. Communicate regularly with families to support transition planning and post-secondary readiness. Collaborate with job coaches and paraprofessionals, providing training and instructional support. Ensure all necessary equipment, tools, and supplies are available and maintained for the vocational program. Use effective classroom and behavior management techniques to maintain a positive learning environment. Manage payroll documentation for student workers and track income/expenses related to student-run work crews. Attend and support vocational training outreach at community festivals and events. Participate in team meetings, IEP meetings, professional development, and transition planning sessions. Supervise and support job coaches, peer mentors, and classroom volunteers. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Direct supervision of paraprofessionals (job coaches) assigned to vocational training programs.

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this role successfully, candidates must demonstrate the following: Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university required. Experience in Special Education and vocational/transition programming preferred. Experience working with diverse learners and community employers is an asset. Certification and Licensure: Valid Connecticut Special Education (K-12) certification required. Valid Connecticut driver's license and reliable transportation. Must obtain First Aid/CPR certification within 90 days of hire and maintain certification. Must pass a Connecticut background check. SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES: Strong knowledge of transition services and vocational training models for students with disabilities. Ability to interpret and implement IEPs and vocational assessments. Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in collaborating with school personnel, families, and community partners. Ability to manage instructional records, job evaluations, and program logistics. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: Ability to lift or move up to 30 pounds regularly. Frequent walking, standing, climbing, bending, or kneeling. Regular travel to job sites and community locations. Indoor and outdoor work with exposure to varying weather conditions. Interaction with tools, plants, materials, and work-related equipment.

SALARY : Salary and wages are paid in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement between NEA Danbury and the Danbury Board of Education.

APPLICATION PROCESS : Apply online and include all required documentation at: www.danbury.k12.ct.us