Special Education Teacher

ChanceLight Programs•Cambria, CA

About The Position

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs is seeking a Special Education Teacher to lead instruction for students in Grades K–12 with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). The teacher designs personalized learning experiences in a learning center and/or classroom, delivers targeted instruction, uses curriculum resources and educational software, and prepares lesson plans and schedules tailored to students’ physical, emotional, and educational needs in alignment with state and school standards. The role involves collaboration with students, parents, colleagues, administrators, and instructional staff. The teacher manages student caseloads and IEPs, supports student progress and behavior, maintains student records and a safe, organized classroom, and pursues ongoing professional growth. The position is part of ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education, which provides alternative and special education programs and services.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher in education, special education, or a closely related field.
Current California Education Specialist Instruction Mild/Moderate credential, or be in the process of obtaining one.
Ability to obtain and maintain certification in company-approved crisis management training.
Prior experience and/or strong skills in classroom management, effective teaching strategies, curriculum development, differentiated instruction, and personalized learning.
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 effective education plans for students with diverse needs and at various levels.
Ability to motivate students and have critical conversations that help them work toward realistic goals.
Ability to think and act quickly and calmly in emergencies 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.

Nice To Haves

Experience in an alternative, special education, and/or behavioral health program setting.

Responsibilities

Create an inclusive, collaborative environment involving students, parents, colleagues, and administrators.
Establish a classroom climate based on mutual respect, fairness, clear expectations, social development, personal accountability, and positive group interactions, 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 curricular content 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 students’ 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 student objectives.
Maintain a safe, welcoming, and organized classroom, including managing supplies, furniture, and resources.
Keep informed about research-based instructional practices and developments in special education and subject 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.