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Special Education Teacher
Career Insights for Special Education Teacher
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Scorecard
Based on California data
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What they do
A Special Education Teacher teaches students who have disabilities, and adapts teaching methods to meet the needs of students. Assesses students and helps to develop individualized education plans that specify the services and accommodations needed for each student. Works in a classroom that includes only students with IEPs, or works with students and teachers in regular classes. For students with severe disabilities, may focus on developing skills for independent living. Works as part of a team that includes therapists, school counselors or social workers.
$88,529 / year median in California
+2% projected growth
Job Description
School Year Objective and Job Summary:
The Education Specialist provides specialized instruction, behavioral support, and case management services to ensure students with disabilities receive a high-quality, inclusive, and individualized educational experience. This role collaborates closely with general education teachers, families, service providers, and school leaders to support student growth across academic, behavioral, and social-emotional areas. The Education Specialist is responsible for implementing IEP services, maintaining compliance with all federal, state, and SELPA requirements, and ensuring students make meaningful progress toward their individualized goals. This role also supports inclusive instructional practices, data-driven intervention planning, and strong partnerships between school and home. This position reports directly to the Principal and collaborates closely with network level special education staff.Duties and Responsibilities:
Specialized Instruction & Student Support Provide individualized and small-group instruction aligned to students' IEP goals and learning needs. Support students' academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and functional skill development. Implement effective behavior management and intervention strategies that support student success. Create safe, structured, and supportive learning environments that maximize student engagement and independence. Monitor student progress and adjust instructional strategies based on student performance and needs. Inclusion & Collaboration Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusive instructional practices and student access to grade-level curriculum. Support teachers and administrators in implementing accommodations, modifications, behavior supports, and intervention strategies outlined in IEPs. Conduct classroom observations and provide coaching and support to staff regarding effective strategies for supporting students with disabilities. Collaborate regularly with related service providers, paraprofessionals, counselors, and school teams to ensure coordinated student support. Build strong relationships with families and maintain ongoing communication regarding student progress and services. IEP Case Management & Compliance Serve as the case manager for assigned students and ensure compliance with all IEP timelines and procedural requirements. Develop legally compliant, student-centered IEPs aligned to federal, state, and SELPA regulations. Schedule, facilitate, and document IEP meetings in a collaborative and professional manner. Maintain accurate Special Education records, service logs, progress reports, and compliance documentation. Coordinate with outside service providers and vendors to ensure students receive all required services and supports. Assessment & Data Analysis Administer formal and informal assessments to support instructional planning and IEP development. Analyze academic, behavioral, and progress-monitoring data to drive instructional decisions and interventions. Monitor and report progress toward IEP goals in accordance with school and SELPA expectations. Support accommodated testing and assessment implementation across instructional settings as appropriate. Professional Responsibilities Maintain knowledge of current Special Education laws, regulations, and best practices. Participate actively in professional development, staff collaboration, and school initiatives. Support schoolwide culture, supervision responsibilities, and student support systems as assigned. Maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and positive collaborative relationships at all times. Perform other job-related duties as assigned.Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree required. Valid California Education Specialist Credential required (Mild/Moderate, Moderate/Severe, or appropriate equivalent). English Learner Authorization required. Successful full-time teaching experience in Special Education preferred. Knowledge of Special Education compliance, IEP development, and inclusive instructional practices. Strong collaboration, communication, organization, and case management skills. Ability to analyze student data and implement targeted instructional interventions. Commitment to Scholarship Prep's mission, values, and trauma-informed practices. Ability to collaborate effectively, communicate clearly, and maintain professionalism in a fast-paced school environment.Physical Abilities:
Frequent sitting, standing, or walking much of the time with some bending, stooping, squatting, twisting, and climbing stairs. Frequently lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 40 pounds.Work Environment:
This position works in a variety of settings including indoor, outdoor work environments. May experience seasonal heat and cold or adverse weather conditions well as odors, dust, moderate noise level.FLSA Status:
ExemptCLASSIFICATION
Certificated Job Type:
Full-time Pay:
$64,000.00 - $90,000.00 per yearBenefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Professional development assistance Retirement plan Vision insurance Application Question(s): Do you have a valid Education Specialist (Mild/Moderate) CA teaching credential?Experience:
Special Education (Mild/Moderate): 2 years (Preferred)Work Location:
In personBenefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- 401(k) Plans
- Professional Development
- Other Retirement and Savings