Special Ed Teacher - Neuro-affirming Alternative Placement Program

Where Passion Meets Purpose-Join Our Team

At Common Threads, we do things a little differently-and that's exactly the point.We're looking for a compassionate, creative, flexible, and relationship-centered Special Education Teacher to join our growing team. If you're seeking a role where your expertise is valued, collaboration is meaningful, and students are supported through connection and care, this may be the right fit for you.Does this sound like you?

• You believe strong relationships are the foundation for learning and growth.
• You're excited to work as part of a transdisciplinary team-collaborating with OTs, SLPs, mental health professionals, and fellow educators.
• You approach your work with curiosity, empathy, and a commitment to student-centered practices.
• You're drawn to healing-centered, neurodiversity-affirming work that promotes regulation, autonomy, and self-advocacy.

We are...

A mid-sized nonprofit on Madison's East Side with a big heart and a clear mission:

To empower autistic and neurodivergent students, and those with mental health needs or sensory differences, through individualized, trauma-informed, strength-based services.At Common Threads, we believe that learning happens in the context of safe, trusting relationships. We support each student's unique journey by building connection, honoring identity, and working collaboratively across disciplines.What you'll find at Common Threads:

• A collaborative and supportive team culture
• Time built in for thoughtful planning and communication
• A program grounded in respect, inclusion, and co-created success
• A space where your voice, ideas, and expertise are genuinely valued

What Your Day Will Look Like:

The special education teacher at Common Threads provides academic instruction with emphasis on supporting our neurodivergent students. You will work in a collaborative environment that emphasizes a team approach working closely with Occupational Therapists, Speech Therapists, Mental Health Therapists, and support staff to provide transdisciplinary interventions and/or supports. We also collaborate with district team members, parents/guardians, and outside agencies and service providers.

Qualifications:

Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree

WI Lifetime Licensure in Special Education

Knowledge/Experience of evidence-based practices and specific approaches for neurodivergent students

Experience with IEPs

Understanding of and experience with Universal Design for Learning

Full-time employees are eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, a professional development stipend, and a retirement account with company match. Common Threads is a public student loan forgiveness program qualifying employer.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to maintain stamina and adjust body positioning to support students in various settings and activities, including but not limited to standing, crouching, sitting for extended periods of time, supporting student safety, and use of various equipment, as directed by related service providers and supervisors.
• Ability to move quickly when necessary to ensure student, staff, and own safety.
• General computer use including typing and screen time.

Common Threads is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As such, Common Threads complies with laws prohibiting discrimination against employees or qualified applicants for employment in hiring or in any decision affecting job status or pay on the basis of age, race, ethnicity, religion, color, gender, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, cultural differences, ancestry, physical appearance, arrest record or conviction record, military participation or membership in the national guard, state defense force or any other reserve component of the military forces of the United States, or political beliefs, or any other status protected by federal, state, and/or or local laws.

Common Threads and all subcontractors agree not to discriminate on the basis of disability in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, the Wisconsin Statutes secs. 111.321 and 111.34, and Chapter 19 of the Dane County Code of Ordinances. We do not sponsor visas for employment.