Special Education Teacher → $5,000 Sign-on Bonus!

Atlantis Academy•Portland, OR

8h•$70,000 - $80,000

About The Position

ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education is seeking a Special Education Teacher for a self-contained Special Education Program serving students in Grades K–5. The teacher leads instruction for students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), designing personalized learning experiences in a learning center and/or classroom. The role involves targeted instruction, use of curriculum resources and educational software, and development of lesson plans and schedules tailored to students’ physical, emotional, and educational needs while aligning with state and school standards. The position offers a stated starting salary of $70,000–$80,000 per year based on experience, plus a $5,000 sign-on bonus. The role is part of a collaborative educational program focused on student growth, inclusive practices, and support for students with diverse learning needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher in education, special education, or a closely related field.
Currently licensed or in the process of obtaining a valid Oregon state teaching credential.
Currently licensed or in the process of obtaining a valid Oregon state special education instruction credential.
Ability to obtain and maintain certification in company-approved crisis management training.
Prior experience and/or strong skills in teaching strategies, classroom management, curriculum development, differentiated instruction, and personalized learning; preferably in an alternative, special education, or behavioral health program.
Prior experience and/or knowledge of special education services and compliance, particularly for students with severe learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and/or related disabilities.
Prior experience and/or strong knowledge of working with students with IEPs.
Demonstrated success developing and implementing education plans for students with diverse needs and ability levels.
Proficiency motivating students and having critical conversations that help them work toward realistic goals.
Ability to think and act quickly and calmly in an emergency and make independent decisions.
Advanced oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Knowledge of relevant technology, including instructional technology, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry, and basic office equipment.

Responsibilities

Create an inclusive, collaborative environment involving students, parents, colleagues, and administrators in the educational process.
Establish a classroom climate based on mutual respect, fairness, and clear expectations, supporting social development, personal accountability, and positive group interactions through modeling Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS).
Implement and reinforce school-wide and classroom PBIS strategies, behavior expectations, reward systems, and appropriate consequences.
Track and document student progress, maintain accurate student files, and prepare reports on student achievements and activities.
Deliver differentiated, targeted instruction individually or in a co-teaching environment to meet IEP goals.
Adapt and modify curriculum and instructional approaches for students’ diverse learning styles and capabilities, and guide instructional staff on differentiation.
Use varied instructional methods, resources, and educational software to support student needs and interests.
Manage student caseloads, including developing, updating, and implementing IEPs, goals, and interventions.
Prepare daily lesson plans and organize instructional materials aligned with curriculum standards and individual student objectives.
Maintain an organized, safe, and welcoming classroom and manage supplies, furniture, and resources according to established procedures.
Stay informed about research-based instructional practices and developments in special education and subject-specific areas.
Respond constructively to evaluations and observations and pursue ongoing professional growth.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support the school community and educational program.