Find & Apply For Curriculum and Instructional Designer / Developer Jobs in Imperial, California

Job Title:

Special Education Specialist - Special Day Class (SDC), Moderate to

Severe Location:

San Diego, CA (Partnered School District)

Employer:

NOVA Health Therapies, Inc.

Target Student Age Group:

Early Childhood / Lower Elementary (K-3rd Grade / Ages 5-8) About NOVA Health Therapies NOVA Health Therapies provides California school districts with specialized educational and therapeutic professionals. We connect clinicians and educators with settings where they can make an immediate impact. At NOVA, you receive dedicated support, clear communication, and access to resources that help you focus on what matters most: helping young learners thrive. Position Summary NOVA Health Therapies is seeking an Education Specialist holding an active California Moderate/Severe Education Specialist Credential for a full-time contract role leading a K-3 Special Day Class (SDC) in the San Diego area. In this role, you will design and deliver individualized, self-contained instruction for primary-grade students facing complex developmental, intellectual, or physical challenges. Working with a multidisciplinary team—including Speech-Language Pathologists, OTs, BCBAs, and Paraprofessionals—you will create a safe, structured classroom environment that fosters early communication, self-regulation, foundational academics, and independence.

Key Responsibilities Instruction & Curriculum Development:

Adapt core curricula to align with California Preschool/Elementary Learning Foundations and Common Core Essential Elements. Deliver multi-sensory, direct instruction tailored to early learners (K-3).

IEP Leadership:

Manage, draft, and track individualized education programs (IEPs). Set measurable annual goals, run annual and triennial meetings, and track student progress using data-driven methods.

Behavior & Sensory Support:

Implement Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and individual Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs)/Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) in coordination with behavioral staff and district psychologists.

Classroom & Team Leadership:

Direct and mentor up to 2 classroom instructional aides and paraprofessionals to maintain a safe, highly structured learning environment.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration:

Partner closely with OT, PT, SLP, school nurses, and parents to integrate therapeutic goals into daily classroom routines.

Adaptive Technology & AAC:

Utilize Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems, adaptive equipment, and assistive technology suited for young children with significant communication needs. Develop and implement individualized education programs (IEPs) tailored to each student's unique needs, ensuring alignment with state and federal regulations. Deliver specialized instruction across core academic areas such as literacy, math, science, and social studies, utilizing evidence-based teaching methods. Integrate learning technology and educational tools to enhance engagement and facilitate accessible learning experiences for students with diverse disabilities. Collaborate with classroom teachers, therapists, and support staff to design instructional modifications and behavioral strategies that promote student success. Conduct assessments to monitor student progress, adjusting instructional approaches as necessary to meet evolving needs. Communicate regularly with parents and guardians to provide updates on student development, behavior management plans, and educational goals. Maintain detailed documentation of student progress, compliance reports, and lesson plans in accordance with educational standards. Support classroom management by implementing behavior management techniques for students with special needs and fostering a positive learning environment. Participate in professional development opportunities related to special education law, instructional design, and emerging educational technologies. Assist in coordinating extracurricular activities such as recreational therapy or music therapy that support holistic development.

Requirements & Qualifications Credential:

Valid California Education Specialist Instruction Credential - Extensive Support Needs (ESN) or Moderate/Severe .

EL Authorization:

English Learner Authorization (CLAD/CTEL or embedded credential authorization).

Clearances:

Valid CPR/First Aid certification, active TB clearance, and DOJ/FBI fingerprint background clearance prior to start.

Education:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university (Master's in Special Education preferred).

Experience:

Experience working with early childhood or primary elementary students (Ages 3-8/K-3) with complex needs (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities) preferred. Additionally, experience with Special Education timelines and assessments and use of IEP systems is required. Join us in shaping inclusive educational experiences that empower students with diverse needs to reach their full potential through innovative teaching practices and compassionate support!

Pay:

$45.00 - $55.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Vision insurance

License/Certification:

CTC Moderate/Severe or ESN Credential (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person