What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Teacher 2024-2025 School Year position at Kairos Academies?
Special Education Teacher |
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Position Overview Kairos Academies in St. Louis, Missouri, is seeking a dedicated and passionate Special Education Teacher to join our team. This role is instrumental in supporting the unique learning needs of students with disabilities and ensuring an inclusive, supportive, and engaging educational environment. The Special Education Teacher will work closely with students, families, general education teachers, and support staff to deliver high-quality instruction that meets the diverse needs of our student community.
Key Responsibilities
- Instructional Planning & Delivery
- Design, implement, and assess individualized education programs (IEPs) for students with special needs.
- Develop differentiated lesson plans and activities tailored to the learning goals, needs, and abilities of each student.
- Utilize evidence-based instructional strategies to support academic, social, and emotional development.
- Foster an inclusive classroom environment that encourages student participation and promotes a sense of belonging.
- Student Support & Advocacy
- Provide direct academic support, behavioral interventions, and accommodations as specified in students' IEPs.
- Implement strategies to promote social-emotional learning (SEL) and self-regulation for students with special needs.
- Support students' transition planning and post-secondary readiness as appropriate for their grade level.
- Advocate for students' educational needs and work collaboratively with general education teachers to support inclusion.
- Collaboration & Communication
- Collaborate with general education teachers to co-teach and support the implementation of inclusive practices.
- Engage in regular communication with families to provide updates on student progress and solicit input for IEP development.
- Coordinate and participate in IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and other school-based team meetings.
- Serve as a liaison between the school, families, and external service providers to ensure comprehensive support for students.
- Data Collection & Reporting
- Monitor student progress and collect data on academic, behavioral, and social-emotional goals.
- Use data-driven decision-making to adjust instructional strategies and interventions as needed.
- Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential records related to student progress, IEPs, and state/federal reporting requirements.
- Professional Development & Compliance
- Stay current on special education best practices, instructional techniques, and legal compliance.
- Participate in professional development opportunities to continuously enhance instructional effectiveness.
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations related to special education, including IDEA and Section 504.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
- Certification: Valid Missouri state certification in Special Education.
- Experience: Prior experience as a Special Education Teacher or related role in a K-12 setting is preferred.
- Knowledge & Skills:
- Deep understanding of IEP development, implementation, and progress monitoring.
- Strong classroom management skills and the ability to implement positive behavior support strategies.
- Ability to differentiate instruction for diverse learners and utilize data to inform teaching.
- Effective communication, organizational, and time-management skills.
- Commitment to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and culturally responsive educational environment.
Working Conditions
- Schedule: Full-time, Monday through Friday, during the academic year.
- Environment: School-based setting, with potential need to adapt to remote or hybrid learning as required.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 25 pounds, supervise students during physical activities, and navigate school facilities.
Why Join Kairos Academies? Kairos Academies is a forward-thinking, student-centered educational community committed to empowering every learner to reach their full potential. Our Special Education Teachers play a vital role in this mission by supporting students with diverse learning needs and creating pathways to success. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of students in St. Louis, Missouri.
How to Apply Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references HERE. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Equal Opportunity Employer Kairos Academies is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply and support an environment where all students and staff feel valued and respected.
Starting Salary: From $48,000 annually based on experience
Benefits:
- Our commitment to you includes a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package that covers health, dental, and vision. In addition, we offer performance-based stipends, opportunities for education advancement, and a dedication to fostering work-life balance. Our school community is built on diversity and support, with small class sizes and a cozy co-working atmosphere. You'll have access to a range of professional growth opportunities, both on and off-campus, and you'll become part of a network of schools that are fully committed to upholding Love, Equity, Agency, and Diversity.
Schedule:
- In-person teaching Monday through Friday 7:30am 4:00pm
- Some weekends and evenings will be required
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Saint Louis, MO 63118: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required). Please note, this is not a remote position. All Kairos teachers are required to deliver in-person instruction onsite, in our school in St. Louis.
Salary : $48,000