Special Education Lead Teacher With Potential Liaison Role (Part-time, 10-month)

Special Education Lead Teacher (Part-Time, 10-Month)

Location: Syracuse, NY (On-Site)
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 11:15 AM + planning and meetings. Additional Liaison hours as applicable.
Pay:

• 60% FTE Lead Teacher: $31,746


• 80% FTE Lead Teacher + Administrative Liaison: $44,248

FTE: 60% or 80%, depending on selected role
Job Type: 10-month school-year position (optional prorated summer hours)

📌 Compensation is pre-determined based on our salary structure and is non-negotiable.

About Jowonio School

Jowonio School is a not-for-profit, inclusive preschool located in Syracuse, NY. The name “Jowonio,” from the Onondaga Nation language, means “to set free”—reflecting our belief that all children deserve to learn, grow, and thrive together.

Since 1969, Jowonio has been nationally recognized for its commitment to inclusive education, family support, and transdisciplinary collaboration. Our classrooms integrate children with and without disabilities and provide individualized supports through therapy, adaptive strategies, and creative teaching. We are dedicated to:

• Creating innovative learning environments where all children are full participants.


• Offering a range of therapeutic and family support services.


• Providing professional development for educators and families in partnership with community organizations.


• Advocating for the inclusion of all children in schools and in society.

Position Summary

Jowonio is hiring a Special Education Lead Teacher to lead an inclusive preschool classroom. This role includes opportunities for additional responsibilities as an Administrative Liaison, depending on candidate experience and interest.

We are looking for dedicated educators who are passionate about early childhood education, inclusion, and team collaboration. The Lead Teacher provides direct classroom instruction, supports children’s development across domains, and works closely with therapists and families. The Administrative Liaison role adds leadership responsibilities related to compliance, team coaching, and program support.

Position Options

Option 1: Lead Special Education Teacher (60% FTE)

• Serve as the primary teacher in an inclusive preschool classroom.


• Adapt lessons to meet the developmental and academic needs of each child, including those with special needs.


• Work closely with therapists, support staff, and families to provide a well-rounded educational experience.


• Implement creative, engaging, and structured activities that promote learning through play.


• Maintain a nurturing, structured, and inclusive learning environment.

Option 2: Lead Teacher + Administrative Liaison (80% FTE)

Includes all Lead Teacher duties, plus:

• Facilitate regular collaborative team meetings with classroom staff, therapists, and parents.


• Oversee the implementation of IEPs, track due dates for reviews, and support staff with CPSE/CSE documentation.


• Provide classroom observations, coaching, mentoring, and bi-annual staff reviews.


• Engage in classroom problem-solving, curriculum planning, and behavioral intervention strategies.


• Assist with student transitions, coordinate communication with districts, and help families navigate the CPSE process.


• Participate in school-wide initiatives, professional development, and community outreach.
  

📌 Other duties may be assigned as needed to support classroom or program needs.

Qualifications

• NYS Teacher Certification in Special Education (Birth–Grade 2 or related field) – Required


• Experience in inclusive or early childhood settings – Strongly Preferred


• For Liaison role: Additional experience in curriculum coordination, CPSE processes, and staff mentoring preferred


• Excellent communication, organizational, and collaboration skills

Benefits for part-time employees working 60% FTE:

• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match


• Paid time off (PTO)


• Aflac supplemental insurance


• 50% tuition discount for children of employees


• Supportive and collaborative work environment


• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership

Benefits for part-time employees working 80% FTE:

• All of the above benefits, plus:


• Medical, dental, and vision insurance


• Voluntary Life Insurance

Work Environment

• On-site in a classroom-based setting


• Inclusive and team-focused culture


• Direct collaboration with a transdisciplinary team (teachers, therapists, and families)

Equal Opportunity Employer

Jowonio School is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.