Academic Year

Orton Academy•Colorado Springs, CO

11h•Hybrid

About The Position

At Orton Academy, we believe in unlocking every student's potential by providing structured, research-based interventions tailored to the needs of students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and executive functioning challenges. Orton Academy is a groundbreaking 2-8 charter school authorized by D11 in Colorado Springs, CO. We are a regional leader in dyslexia education, utilizing research-based instruction to create personalized learning experiences that enable students to overcome learning challenges. Our curriculum is rooted in the science of reading and structured literacy, ensuring that students receive the targeted support they need to succeed. At Orton Academy, we don't just teach-we empower. Our students develop the skills, confidence, and strategies to navigate their academic journeys and beyond. Through individualized instruction, small class sizes, and a supportive learning environment, we are redefining what's possible for students with dyslexia. Learn more about our unique approach at https://ortonk8.org Philosophy and Vision Alignment Our Why : We exist to ensure that students with dyslexia have access to high-quality, research-based instruction tailored to their unique learning needs. We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to develop confidence in their abilities and achieve their full potential. We are committed to instilling hope, igniting purpose, and empowering students to succeed academically and personally. Our How : By implementing evidence-based instructional methods that prioritize the science of reading. By fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and student-centered learning environment. By equipping students with self-advocacy skills and strategies that empower them for lifelong success. Our What : We are a community of educators, students, and families committed to breaking down learning barriers and championing student success. We provide specialized instruction tailored to the needs of students with dyslexia, ensuring they develop essential literacy and academic skills. We ensure that every graduate leaves Orton Academy with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to excel in their future pursuits. Position Overview The Hybrid Dean of Students / Special Education Teacher plays a critical role in fostering a positive, structured, and inclusive school environment while ensuring that students with diverse learning needs receive high-quality, individualized instruction and support. This position blends student culture, behavior, and discipline leadership with direct special education services, ensuring all students are supported academically, socially, and emotionally.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required
Master's degree preferred in Education, Special Education, or related field.
Valid teaching license with Special Education endorsement (required).
Administrative or leadership experience is preferred.
Strong knowledge of IEP development, IDEA compliance, and behavior intervention strategies.
Demonstrated ability to build relationships with students, families, and staff.
Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a school leadership or dean role.
Background in trauma-informed practices and restorative justice.
Ability to balance compliance-driven responsibilities with student-centered support.
Strong commitment to equity and inclusive education.

Responsibilities

Lead the development and implementation of a positive school culture that promotes respect, responsibility, and accountability.
Oversee student behavior systems, including discipline, restorative practices, and intervention plans.
Support staff in classroom management strategies and behavior interventions.
Manage student attendance, including monitoring trends and implementing improvement strategies.
Facilitate communication with families regarding behavior, attendance, and student well-being.
Coordinate and supervise student supervision systems (arrival, dismissal, transitions, etc.).
Lead or support student recognition programs and culture-building initiatives.
Collaborate with administration on school-wide policies and procedures.
Provide direct instruction and services to students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs in compliance with state and federal regulations.
Differentiate instruction to meet diverse learning needs within general and small group settings.
Conduct assessments and contribute to eligibility and reevaluation processes.
Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusion and co-teaching models.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of student progress and compliance requirements.
Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and goals.
Serve as a member of the school's leadership and student support teams.
Analyze student data (academic, behavioral, attendance) to inform interventions.
Support Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and Response to Intervention (RTI) frameworks.
Provide professional development and coaching to staff on behavior and special education best practices.
Build strong relationships with students to support engagement and success.
Ensure compliance with all district, state, and federal policies related to student services.