Associate Teacher

KVC Health Systems•Columbia, MO

2d•$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. It is a salaried, full-time position with full benefits, a consistent Monday–Friday school schedule, and school-year breaks, not an unpaid internship or volunteer pathway. 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, emphasizing work-life balance through various programs and resources.

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 or academic backgrounds in: Behavioral Health or Mental Health Services, Social Work or Case Management, Psychology or Human Services, Direct Care, Residential, or Community Support Roles, Related degree programs in behavioral or social sciences
Strong communication skills, emotional awareness, patience, and a commitment to supporting youth with diverse needs

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

$1,000 sign-on bonus
Full benefits
School-year 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
Work-life balance programs and resources (Wellbeing Committee, DEI+B Committee, Talent Development Programs)