Special Education Teacher

Description

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Samueli Academy is a non-profit 7-12 public charter school in Santa Ana, CA. Its mission is to ignite the passion within all students to reach their greatest potential through a nurturing and innovative learning environment. Samueli Academy offers youth an innovative and student-centered choice for their education. This includes on-site housing for foster youth who need a stable living environment in order for them to excel academically.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Title: Special Education Teacher

Employment Classification: Full-time, Salaried, Exempt, 11-month, Certificated

Reports to: Student Services Coordinator

Position Summary: Responsible for providing services and support to Samueli Academy students with special needs through a full inclusion model. This includes students with IEPs and 504 plans who experience academic, social, emotional, and personal challenges. The Special Education Teacher works closely with general education teachers and paraeducators to co-teach and provide push-in support in the classroom, ensuring access to curriculum and instructional accommodations. This role also includes managing a caseload- developing and facilitating IEPs and related meetings, implementing special education services, and supporting early intervention strategies. The Special Education Teacher collaborates with students, families, teachers, paraeducators, and support staff to help each student succeed and thrive in an inclusive educational environment.

Requirements

Major Areas of Responsibility:

• Develop, implement, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Facilitate IEP meetings, ensuring meaningful collaboration with families, staff, and service providers.
• Provide direct special education services in inclusive settings, including co-teaching and push-in support in general education classrooms.
• Knowledge of Accommodations and Modifications.
• Collaborate closely with service providers, general education teachers and paraeducators to adapt curriculum and deliver accommodations and modifications.
• Track student progress on IEP goals and academic performance through formal and informal assessments, grade checks, and teacher feedback.
• Support with the implementation of accommodations and early interventions for students with 504 plans
• Address academic, behavioral, social, and emotional needs of students through individualized strategies and supports
• Communicate regularly with students, families, and support staff to ensure consistency and shared expectations
• Maintain organized and accurate documentation: IEP timelines, service tracking, goal progress monitoring
• Contribute to a school-wide culture of inclusion, equity, and student-centered support.
• Collaborate and participate with all Samueli Academy staff during professional development and learning opportunities.

Strengths and Characteristics:

• Deep knowledge of special education laws (IDEA, Section 504, ADA) and best practices
• Knowledge in developing and implementing IEPs and behavior intervention plans (BIPs)
• Skilled in differentiated instruction and curriculum modifications
• Uses data-driven and evidence-based teaching strategies
• Strong classroom and behavior management rooted in trauma-informed care
• Builds trusting relationships with students, staff, and families
• Advocates effectively for student needs and equitable access to learning
• Collaborates with general education teachers to support inclusive practices
• Excellent organizational and time management skills for case management
• Communicates clearly and compassionately, even in difficult conversations
• Reflective and growth-oriented, open to feedback and ongoing learning
• Maintains a calm, flexible, and student-centered approach in high-stress situations
• Promotes social-emotional learning and a positive school climate
• Demonstrates leadership in IEP meetings, team collaboration, and professional development
• Mission-driven and passionate about making a difference.

Knowledge, Skill, and Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Must hold a valid California M/S Special Education Credential and the equivalent of CLAD Certification
• Demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Bilingual in Spanish preferred.
• Computer proficiency required, especially with Google applications, Outlook and Word
• Knowledge of IEP processing systems (ex. SEIS)
• Possess a valid California driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance. Position requires DMV clearance.
• Pre-employment screenings include criminal background check, FBI/DOJ fingerprinting, TB test, drug screen, and previous employment verification

In accordance with California Education Code Section 44939.5, as amended by AB 2534, all applicants for certificated positions must provide a complete and accurate record of all employment with Local Educational Agencies (LEAs), school districts, or other educational institutions.

As part of the hiring process, Samueli Academy will verify employment history. This may include obtaining information from previous employers regarding credible allegations, investigations, or disciplinary actions related to egregious misconduct, as defined by Education Code Section 44932.

Essential Qualities:

• Ability to form trusting relationships with adolescents and motivate them to succeed.
• Understanding of and passion for The Samueli Academy’s and Orangewood Foundation mission and vision
• Works well as part of the team and is willing and able to assist in functions that may come up from time to time outside their job duties.
• Exemplifies the values of Trust, Respect, and Responsibility
• Understands and respects work with confidential information.

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, vision, FSA, and life & disability benefits package.
• Eligible employees will be enrolled in the California State Teachers Retirement System (STRS)

Working Environment / Physical Requirements:

• On school site job position. May include driving to meetings, trainings, events, and home visits. Physical requirements include standing, sitting, typing, bending, driving, and potentially lifting up to approximately 25 lbs.
• Modification to work schedule may be made based on need of the Academy and Foundation.

Samueli Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race (including hair texture and protective hair styles such as braids, locks, and twists), religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and/or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity (including individuals who are transgender and/or transitioning), gender expression, age, sexual orientation, reproductive health decision-making, military and veteran status, or any other protected group, in accordance with all applicable federal or State laws.