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

Atlantis Academy•Birmingham, AL

9h•$53,000 - $77,000

About The Position

ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education is seeking a Special Education Teacher for a self-contained Grades 9–12 special education program. 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 delivering targeted instruction, using curriculum resources and educational software, and preparing lesson plans and schedules tailored to students’ physical, emotional, and educational needs in alignment with state and school standards. The position supports students with diverse learning needs in a collaborative educational environment. The teacher works with students, parents, colleagues, administrators, and instructional staff to foster student growth, support IEP goals, and maintain a safe, welcoming classroom. The role also includes student caseload management, progress documentation, and ongoing professional development.

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 Alabama state professional educator certificate.
Currently licensed or in the process of obtaining a valid Alabama state collaborative special education instruction credential.
Ability to obtain and maintain certification in company-approved crisis management training.
Prior experience and/or strong skill in effective teaching strategies, classroom management, 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 knowledge working with students with IEPs.
Demonstrated success developing and implementing effective education plans for students with diverse needs and abilities.
Proficiency in motivating students and having 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 skills.
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, and clear expectations, supporting social development, personal accountability, and positive group interactions through 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 curriculum content and instructional approaches to students’ 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 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 areas.
Respond constructively to evaluation and observation feedback and pursue ongoing professional growth.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support the school community and educational program.