Job Title: Special Education Teacher – Extensive Support Needs
Organization: Sierra Foothills Academy
Location: Loomis, California
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
About the Employer
Sierra Foothills Academy is a nonpublic K–12 school serving students with special needs. We provide individualized academic instruction, behavioral support, and therapeutic services in a structured, supportive environment. Our program is designed to meet the unique educational needs of students with moderate to severe disabilities.
Job Summary
Under the direction of site administration, the Special Education Teacher provides direct instruction and educational programming to students ages TK–22 with moderate to severe disabilities. The teacher is responsible for the development, implementation, and compliance of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), as well as maintaining a structured and supportive classroom environment aligned with student needs and regulatory requirements.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs in accordance with federal and state laws, including IDEA
- Provide specialized academic instruction, functional life skills training, and social-emotional support
- Conduct ongoing assessments and maintain accurate data collection for progress monitoring and reporting
- Prepare and maintain required documentation, including IEPs, progress reports, service logs, attendance, and behavior records
- Collaborate with related service providers, paraprofessionals, and families to ensure coordinated service delivery
- Participate in IEP meetings and communicate student progress with parents/guardians and team members
- Implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and utilize evidence-based practices such as ABA and PBIS
- Maintain a safe, structured classroom environment in compliance with applicable health and safety standards
- Supervise and direct instructional aides and paraprofessional staff as assigned
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development as required
Minimum Qualifications
- Valid California Education Specialist Instruction Credential: Extensive Support Needs (ESN)
- Knowledge of and experience with IEP development, IDEA compliance, and special education law
- Experience working with students with autism, intellectual disabilities, and/or multiple disabilities preferred
- Ability to implement behavior management strategies, including crisis intervention techniques
- Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams
Recent graduates who meet credential eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply.
Licenses and Requirements
- Valid California teaching credential as specified above
- DOJ/FBI fingerprint clearance (Live Scan)
- TB clearance
- Valid California driver’s license (if applicable)
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and sit for extended periods
- Ability to physically assist students as needed, including during behavioral interventions
Working Conditions
- Classroom environment serving students with moderate to severe disabilities
- Exposure to behaviors including, but not limited to, verbal outbursts, physical aggression, and elopement
- May require implementation of crisis intervention strategies in accordance with training
Salary and Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications
- Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Professional development and continuing education support