Special Education Teacher - $10,000 Sign-On Bonus - 26/27 SY - American River

California Montessori Project • Fair Oaks, CA

11d • Onsite

About The Position

The Special Education Teacher provides individualized instruction, specialized academic support, and case management for students with disabilities. This role ensures compliance with IDEA and California Education Code, while fostering inclusion and collaboration in alignment with CMP’s Montessori philosophy. Special Education Teachers will continuously collaborate with teachers and other professionals to create and sustain an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

California Montessori Project (CMP) is a successful public charter school network based in the greater Sacramento area with an exceptional TK-8 Montessori program that is tuition-free and open to all students. The network serves over 3,000 students on seven campuses. CMP is authorized through, and maintains strong relationships with four school districts: Elk Grove Unified School District, Sacramento City Unified School District, San Juan Unified School District and Buckeye Union School District.

CMP teachers are supported in pursuing dual-certification, holding a Montessori certification from an AMS-accredited training center and a California state credential. The CMP Leadership Team, including the Governing Board, Directors, Principals, and Deans, provide stability and focused guidance to the organization. CMP’s commitment to equity and student success is anchored in the frameworks of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), which build sustainable systems and promote whole-child development.

CMP Mission: The Mission of the California Montessori Project is to provide a quality, tuition-free, TK-8, Montessori education that challenges our students to reach their full potential.

Requirements

• Knowledge of IDEA, California Education Code, and special education compliance.
• Ability to develop and implement effective instructional and behavioral strategies.
• Strong skills in collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
• Strong understanding of diverse learning needs, inclusion strategies, and differentiated instruction. Commitment to inclusive practices and equity for all learners.
• Knowledge of child development
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with students, colleagues, parents, and specialists
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment
• Must possess a Bachelor’s degree or higher in Education or a related field
• Must hold a valid California Education Specialist Instruction Credential (Mild/Moderate Support Needs, Extensive Support Needs, or equivalent).
• Must have a minimum of one year of successful teaching or related experience in special education.

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency using the Special Education Information System (SEIS) or similar Special Education Data management system or willingness to learn and adapt to its use
• Montessori experience
• Knowledge of Montessori philosophy and teaching strategies is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver specialized academic instruction aligned with students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Develop, implement, and monitor IEP goals in collaboration with parents, general education teachers, and service providers.
• Develops, completes, and maintains all paperwork/documentation mandated by local, state, and federal guidelines, laws, and regulations.
• Assess student abilities using formal and informal assessment tools and maintain accurate records of progress.
• Provide case management services, including scheduling and facilitating IEP meetings.
• Support general education teachers in implementing accommodations, modifications, and differentiated strategies.
• Adapt and modify curriculum materials and teaching strategies to create an inclusive learning environment that caters to students across a range of abilities.
• Work closely with general education teachers, specialists, therapists, and support staff to facilitate collaborative learning experiences that enhance students' academic, social, and emotional growth.
• Collaborate with specialists, paraprofessionals, and administrators to ensure coordinated services.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local special education requirements, including timely documentation in SEIS.
• Provide instructional and behavioral support that promotes student independence and social-emotional development.
• Utilize the Special Education Information System (SEIS) to maintain accurate records, track student progress, and communicate with parents and fellow educators in a seamless and efficient manner.
• Engage in professional development and training in Montessori principles, structured literacy, and evidence-based practices.
• Communicate effectively with families to support student growth and maintain strong school-home partnerships.
• Create a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment that promotes students' independence, self-confidence, and collaboration. Ensure that each student’s needs are met and plans are being followed.
• Utilize Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to teach and reinforce expectations. Implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) to support students with challenging behaviors, fostering a positive and respectful classroom atmosphere.
• Maintain open and regular communication with parents and guardians, sharing student progress, strategies, and fostering a partnership that promotes student success.
• Oversee and mentor instructional assistants, ensuring the effective implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) and fostering an inclusive learning environment tailored to meet the diverse needs of students.
• Special education teachers often play a role in providing toileting support to ensure the well-being and comfort of their students. This is an important aspect of caring for students with special needs, particularly those who require assistance due to physical or cognitive disabilities.
• Stay updated with best practices in special education, Montessori education, and SEIS usage through ongoing professional development opportunities.

Benefits

• Sick leave
• paid holidays
• vacation (as applicable by position)
• 403(b) and 457 retirement plans through CalSTRS Pension2 according to California state law, California Education code and CMP policy.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance for Full Time Positions: Comprehensive coverage for you and your eligible dependents.
• Childcare Support: Access to free before and after care through Club M for employees with students enrolled at a CMP campus (subject to availability; application fees apply).
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Options for health care and dependent care.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal or work-related challenges.
• Mental Health Support: Access to Nivati, a mental health platform offering counseling, coaching, and wellness tools.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level