Onward Education is partnering with a school partner in Hartford County, CT to hire a Special Education Teacher to support an in-person functional/life skills classroom serving grades 3-5. This is a great fit for an educator who enjoys hands-on, skills-based instruction and building student independence through structured routines and real-world learning.

Brief Role Summary

In this role, you'll lead a classroom focused on functional academics, daily living skills, social communication, and independence. You'll collaborate with the school team to create a supportive, consistent environment where students can grow skills they'll use in and out of school.

Position Details:

• Role: Special Education Teacher (Functional / Life Skills)
• Setting: On-site (in-person only)
• Location: Hartford County, CT
• Schedule: Full-time, ~37.5-40 hours/week (school-day schedule approximately 8:20 AM-3:40 PM)
• Grade level: 3-5
• Start/End: December 2026 through early March 2027, with option to extend

Responsibilities:

• Deliver instruction aligned to IEP goals with an emphasis on functional academics and independence-building skills.
• Build and maintain a structured classroom environment that supports routines, behavior expectations, and positive reinforcement.
• Develop and adapt lessons that may include daily living skills and self-help routines, practical math and reading applications, social interaction and communication skills, and pre-vocational or school-based functional tasks as age and needs appropriate.
• Collaborate closely with related service providers and school team members to support student progress.
• Maintain clear documentation and progress monitoring that supports IEP implementation.

Qualifications:

• Special education teaching experience supporting students with moderate to significant needs; functional/life skills programming experience is a plus.
• Strong classroom management skills with a calm, consistent approach.
• Ability to differentiate instruction and adjust supports to meet a wide range of learning needs.
• Collaborative mindset and clear communication with school teams and families.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay and benefits package.
• Access to a wide network of schools and districts for diverse placement options.
• Streamlined hiring process to get you started quickly.
• Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your placement.
• Personalized support from dedicated recruiting professionals.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Why Apply?
If you're passionate about creating positive change and supporting students' success, this is the opportunity for you! Work alongside a dedicated team of educators and support staff, helping students reach their full potential.

Ready to join us? Apply today - we can't wait to hear from you!