Transition Program Lead Teacher

About The Helix School
The Helix School serves students ages 5 to 22 with mild to moderate autism throughout the Bay Area. Our interdisciplinary model integrates academics with therapeutic supports to meet each student's developmental, sensory, and emotional regulation needs. Our dedicated team includes educators, occupational therapists, speech and behavioral therapists, and mental health professionals.

At Helix, we strive to build a responsive and empowering environment that recognizes and nurtures each child’s strengths. Our priorities include supporting students in developing a strong sense of self, meaningful community connections, trusting relationships, and skills for independence, adaptability, and resiliency.

Position Overview
The Transition Lead Teacher will lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive educational program for students aged 18–22, focusing on life skills, vocational training, academic enrichment, and post-secondary readiness. This position requires an innovative, collaborative, and self-motivated individual who can build and expand a program aligned with the mission and values of Helix.

This full-time, exempt position reports to the Executive Director and works closely with the Director of Adult Education to ensure alignment and continuity between the transition and adult education programs.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Development

• Lead the design and implementation of a robust, individualized transition program for young adults with autism.
• Collaborate with students, families, and IEP teams to develop appropriate, measurable vocational, academic, and life goals.
• Identify and nurture partnerships with community organizations and businesses for job placements, life skills instruction, and community-based learning opportunities.
• Maintain strong relationships with adult service providers and post-secondary programs to support students' transition planning.

Curriculum & Instruction

• Develop and implement curriculum that integrates independent living, functional academics, career exploration, and workplace readiness.
• Incorporate evidence-based practices, sensory strategies, and student-centered teaching into all aspects of instruction.
• Plan and lead engaging learning experiences both on campus and in the community.

IEP & Documentation Responsibilities

• Complete Transition Services components of the IEP, including goals, objectives, and Summary of Performance.
• Provide quarterly and annual written reports on student progress.
• Collect and maintain accurate data to reflect services provided, objectives met, and student growth.
• Schedule and facilitate transition-focused IEP meetings and parent conferences.

Family & Community Engagement

• Serve as a resource for families on transition-related topics, including adult services, post-secondary options, and employment pathways.
• Host parent education sessions, distribute relevant resources, and coordinate visits to adult programs and facilities.
• Respond promptly and compassionately to parent questions or concerns.

Personal Qualities

• Visionary thinker with a passion for growing innovative programs
• Effective communicator with strong written and interpersonal skills
• Organized, proactive, and detail-oriented
• Flexible and solution-focused in a dynamic environment
• Lifelong learner committed to professional growth
• Enthusiastic and deeply connected to the Helix mission and population

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree and/or Education Specialist Credential strongly preferred
• Experience with transition-aged youth, vocational training, or adult services
• Knowledge of IDEA Transition Services requirements and IEP process
• Comfort and confidence working both independently and as part of a collaborative team

The Helix School is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment for all.

Salary : $76,000 - $85,000