Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher – Youth Behavioral Health

Location: Memphis, TN (Memphis Youth Academy)
Job Type: Full-Time | 
Pay: $60,000 - $65,000 /year

About Youth Opportunity & Memphis Youth Academy

Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at‑risk youth. Memphis Youth Academy in Memphis, Tennessee is a higher‑capacity Youth Academy (approx. 68 beds) serving boys ages 13 to 18 in a trauma‑informed residential setting. The program integrates clinical mental health and behavioral treatment with daily academic instruction, art, music, recreation, and social skills development.

Youth typically spend 6 to 9 months in the program, participating in individual, family, and group therapy, restorative justice, life skills training, victim‑impact awareness, and pre‑vocational preparation. Small group living units foster stability, engagement, and preparation for reintegration into school and community environments.

Position Summary – Special Education Teacher Job in Memphis, TN

We are hiring a Special Education Teacher to join our education team at Memphis Youth Academy. This role is ideal for educators passionate about helping at-risk youth with behavioral health and emotional regulation needs succeed in the classroom. You will be responsible for providing direct instruction, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting youth through trauma-informed, evidence-based education programs.

Special Education Teacher Job Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance


• 401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate Vesting


• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays – Earn 4 hours of PTO every pay period


• Free RX delivery on most medications


• Tuition reimbursement and professional development


• Robust Employee Assistance Program


• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Why Join Youth Opportunity?

• Be part of a team making a difference in the lives of vulnerable youth


• Help shape the academic success of youth in mental health treatment


• Work in a secure, structured, and therapeutic educational environment


• Develop your skills through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities

Special Education Teacher Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver individualized lesson plans for youth with diverse learning needs


• Instruct students in academics, interpersonal skills, and activities of daily living


• Administer assessments and create individualized education plans (IEPs)


• Adapt classroom work for inclusion and specialized learning environments


• Track student progress through documentation, grades, and behavioral records


• Counsel students on academic, social, and behavioral issues as appropriate


• Collaborate with other teachers, clinical staff, administrators, and guardians


• Maintain a safe, trauma-informed classroom environment that promotes learning


• Comply with state regulations and facility policies related to education and special education

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or Special Education


• Valid Tennessee Teaching License with Special Education Endorsement


• Ability to pass background check and drug screen


• Strong organizational skills and commitment to youth success


• Willingness to work with youth in behavioral health and challenging environments

Preferred Experience

• 3+ years teaching in special education settings


• Experience working with youth with developmental, intellectual, or behavioral disabilities


• Familiarity with trauma-informed education, IEP development, and EMR systems

Other Requirements

• Physical Demands: Ability to sit for extended periods and tolerate prolonged data entry. Must be free of communicable diseases as defined by the state and to the extent that knowledge is attainable under the law.


• Other: Must maintain an appropriate and valid state driver’s license. Must meet state criminal background check requirements.

How to Apply

Click “Apply Now” through Indeed to submit your application. Or visit http://www.youthopportunity.com/yourfuture to learn more about our mission and career opportunities.

Youth Opportunity is an Equal Opportunity Employer.