Early Childhood Special Education Teacher

Mission Edge•San Diego, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are currently seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and neuro-affirming Full-Time Teacher to join our team. MUST hold a special education credential OR a Master’s in Special Education (or related field). Serve as lead teacher and Ed specialist for one of our 4 classrooms, creating developmentally appropriate curricula with differentiated instruction for diverse needs. You'll collaborate with therapy teams and families, advocate for your students, and track their progress. Our Mission and Vision: At Includ(Ed), Our philosophy is simple: all children deserve access to community, care, and education. We are on a mission to increase access to quality, inclusive early childhood education and childcare one classroom at a time. Includ(Ed) provides early intervention-focused, full-time, inclusive preschool where all are welcome. Collectively, our staff provides the support, care, and education that enable typically-developing children and children with disabilities to learn, play, and thrive together. We are seeking an experienced Early Childhood Special Education Teacher to lead. This educator will be responsible for designing and implementing a developmentally appropriate, standards-aligned program, while ensuring full access for students with diverse learning needs. The teacher will create a literacy-rich and language-rich classroom environment and deliver instruction. Instruction should integrate play-based, inquiry-driven, and multisensory learning approaches appropriate for young children. The educator will ensure students build strong foundations in early literacy, phonological awareness, print concepts, letter-sound knowledge, vocabulary, oral language development, emergent writing, early mathematics, scientific exploration, and social-emotional learning, while maintaining a joyful and inclusive classroom culture. The ideal candidate will have experience in inclusive classrooms and demonstrated expertise in differentiated instruction. This role requires close collaboration with our speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and families to integrate therapeutic supports into classroom instruction and ensure that every child can fully access both the academic and social components.

Requirements

Livescan clearance and criminal record check required
Current Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification required
Applicants MUST hold a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Child Development, or a related field from an accredited program.
Applicants MUST have either: A valid Special Education teaching credential, OR A Master’s Degree in Special Education (or related field)

Nice To Haves

Experience with early literacy instruction, including phonological awareness, print concepts, emergent reading, and early writing
Experience working in inclusive classrooms
Knowledge of AAC systems and communication supports
Knowledge and expertise in supporting developmental needs in areas including: Cognition Communication Social-emotional development Self-help skills Fine and gross motor development
Basic knowledge of commonly used ASL words
Strong organizational and time management skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with children, families, and professionals
Candidates should possess a deep understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity and demonstrate the ability to engage effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Knowledge of best practices in inclusive education and early childhood development and a genuine belief in the power of inclusion.
Ability to work effectively as part of a transdisciplinary team, collaborating with teachers, therapists, and specialists.
Empathy, patience, and a genuine passion for working with children of all abilities.
Flexibility to adapt to the dynamic needs of a growing and innovative program.
Regular access to reliable transportation.
Commitment to continued professional development.
Conversational fluency in Spanish is a plus.

Responsibilities

Create a literacy-rich classroom environment that fosters early reading, writing, and language development
Design and implement developmentally appropriate, child-centered curricula focused on: Early literacy and phonological awareness, Print concepts and letter recognition, Vocabulary and oral language development, Emergent writing and storytelling, Inclusive academic readiness, and Social Emotional Learning
Differentiate instruction and modify curriculum to ensure all learners can access literacy and academic content
Use multisensory and play-based approaches to teach literacy and foundational academic skills
Support students using AAC devices, visual supports, and other communication tools
Collaborate closely with speech therapists to integrate language development throughout the school day
Create curricula that honor and respect each child, with particular attention to inclusive and anti-bias practices
Cultivate a community of belonging where each child feels seen, heard, and valued
Create a nurturing and safe environment to meet the diverse needs of students
Develop differentiated methods of instruction to meet the needs of each student
Use ongoing observation and assessment to guide instruction and track student progress
Collaborate regularly with our therapy team and parents
Serve as an advocate for all students
Track goals, update assessments, and coordinate student success plans
Maintain a positive classroom culture rooted in respect, celebration, and shared joy