Social Studies Teacher - Spark Academy

Heritage Schools, Inc. • Provo, UT

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Spark Academy is a co-ed, residential treatment program specializing in autism and neurodiversity. They offer a year-round, project-based learning curriculum in a co-teacher classroom that fosters confidence and a love for education. As an accredited special education school, Spark Academy is committed to providing individualized support to help students thrive academically and personally, prioritizing students over curriculum. The Social Studies Teacher will provide structured and engaging history, government, and geography instruction in a co-taught, cross-curricular, project-based learning classroom while supporting students with varying special education needs. This role requires creativity, patience, out-of-the-box thinking, and a strong understanding of how to adapt the curriculum to accommodate students who learn differently than in a traditional direct instruction classroom. The position offers the freedom to teach creatively, build lasting relationships with students, and enjoy teaching without the stress of high-stakes tests.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education, Secondary Education, History, or a related field preferred.
• Valid teaching license (or a willingness to obtain one).
• Must be at least 20 years old to apply.
• Strong proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking fluently).
• Strong understanding of adolescent development and how to engage neurodiverse students in a structured learning environment.
• Knowledge of special education practices, particularly in supporting high-functioning autism and other neurodiverse behaviors.
• Ability to provide engaging, adaptable instruction while balancing structure and flexibility.
• Strong organizational skills to create a structured, literacy-focused curriculum that promotes learning.
• Even temperament and patience to support students through moments of frustration or emotional escalation.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in special education, Social Studies instruction, or residential treatment is highly desirable.
• Experience working with neurodiverse students is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on, project-based social studies instruction that fosters curiosity and engagement.
• Adapt teaching strategies to support students with level 1 autism, or other neurodiversities to know that they are more important than the curriculum being taught.
• Collaborate with the Special Education Coordinator to implement IEP goals and track student progress.
• Create a structured and supportive classroom environment that encourages student participation and success.
• Support students in developing critical thinking, communication, and literacy skills.
• Partner with Residential Coaches, therapists, and other team members to support students' academic and social-emotional development.
• Prioritize student relationships and meaningful engagement over rote memorization and standardized tests.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student performance, attendance, and behavior in accordance with school policies.
• Attend and actively participate in faculty meetings, professional development sessions, and school-related conferences.
• Supervise students during class and designated school activities to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Uphold Heritage's mission and values, modeling professionalism and ethical behavior in all interactions.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance packages.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company matching contributions.
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching (eligible after one year).
• 8 paid holidays per year, plus accrued PTO starting on Day 1, as well as 8 weeks of VTO when school is out.
• Sundance Mountain Resort corporate passes.
• Discounted Provo Recreation Center membership.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees