Associate Teacher

KVC Health Systems•Columbia, MO

2h•$40,000 - $41,200•Onsite

About The Position

KVC Missouri offers a full-time, benefits-eligible classroom role designed for individuals who want to grow into a career in special education. This position provides structured training, consistent school-based work, and long-term support toward teacher certification while you are employed. This is a salaried, full-time position with full benefits, a consistent Monday–Friday school schedule, and school-year breaks. As an Associate Teacher, you will work in a small, structured special education classroom supporting students with behavioral, emotional, and learning needs. This role is especially well-suited for individuals transitioning from behavioral health, social services, or direct care who are seeking a more structured school-based environment. KVC is a nonprofit child placing and behavioral health agency committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment and believes in work-life balance.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years old
Minimum of 36 college credit hours OR eligibility for substitute teaching certification
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
Ability to pass background check, drug screen, and physical
Experience working with children/teens and students in an educational setting or behavioral health settings, juvenile justice, healthcare and intellectual and developmental disabilities programs
Experience working in youth camps, learning programs, religious youth programs, youth clubs, in home care, mentor programs, etc.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred (Education, Psychology, Social Work, or related field)

Responsibilities

Support students’ academic, social, emotional, and behavioral development within a therapeutic learning environment
Collaborate closely with licensed special education teachers, therapists, and other support staff to implement individualized student supports
Utilize trauma-informed practices and evidence-based behavioral support strategies throughout the school day
Build consistent, trusting relationships with students to support stability, engagement, and progress

Benefits

$40,000-$41,200 annually
$1,000 sign-on bonus
Full benefits
School-year schedule
Full-time, salaried employment
Work-life balance of a school-based schedule, including holidays, planned breaks, and summers off (per academic calendar)
A consistent Monday–Friday schedule
No nights, weekends, or shift work
A clear, supported pathway into a long-term education career
New employee onboarding and classroom orientation
Ongoing training in special education practices and behavioral support strategies
One-on-one mentorship throughout the first year
KVC-funded participation in Missouri’s Pathways for Paraprofessionals program
Tuition reimbursement to support continued education and degree completion
Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) as a qualifying employer
Ongoing opportunities to pursue Special Education Teacher certification over time
Wellbeing Committee
DEI+B Committee
Talent Development Programs