Special Education Teacher

Highland Community School is looking to add to our Special Education Team. We are a community of diverse learners and educators fostering a nurturing environment for our students.

Position Summary

The Special Education Teacher provides specialized instruction and services to students in accordance with their individualized education plans (IEPs). This role delivers services primarily through an inclusion model within the Montessori classroom, with additional small-group or individualized instruction as needed. The Special Education Teacher collaborates closely with classroom guides and staff to ensure students have access to the curriculum through appropriate accommodations, modifications, and targeted instruction.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction & Service Delivery

• Provide specialized instruction aligned to student IEP goals through a combination of push-in support and targeted small-group or individual instruction.
• Adapt and modify instruction, materials, and assessments to meet diverse learning needs.
• Support students in developing academic, executive functioning, and self-advocacy skills.

IEP Development & Compliance

• Develop, write, and update IEP goals and objectives in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Coordinate and facilitate IEP meetings, ensuring required documentation and timelines are met.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and confidential student records.
• Monitor and document student progress toward IEP goals and provide regular progress reports to families.

Assessment & Data Use

• Administer and interpret formal and informal assessments to inform instruction and IEP development.
• Use data to monitor student progress and adjust instructional strategies.
• Collaborate with staff to ensure data-informed decision-making for students receiving services.

Collaboration & Inclusion

• Collaborate with classroom guides to implement accommodations and modifications within the Montessori environment.
• Partner with general education staff, interventionists, and support staff to ensure coordinated services.
• Provide consultation and guidance to staff regarding student needs and effective instructional strategies.
• Support inclusive classroom practices that promote access, participation, and belonging.

Family Communication

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with families.
• Communicate regularly regarding student progress, needs, and services.
• Serve as a point of contact for families regarding special education services and supports.

Professional Responsibilities

• Reflect with the Special Education Coordinator or Montessori Coach in regularly scheduled meetings.
• Pursue opportunities for professional growth annually. Co-create annual professional growth goals with the Special Education Coordinator or Montessori Coach and Executive Director.
• Actively participate in school meetings, professional development, and events as required.
• Support daily school operations such as recess and transitions as assigned.
• Perform. duties in alignment with school policies and charter requirements and adapts to reasonable changes in assignments, schedule, or work setting to support school operations.

Required Qualifications

• Valid Wisconsin Special Education teaching license or ability to obtain.
• Knowledge of special education laws, procedures, and compliance requirements.
• Experience developing and implementing IEPs.
• Ability to manage documentation and timelines with accuracy.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check prior to employment.
• Demonstrate alignment with the school's mission, vision, and values through professional conduct, respectful communication with students, families, and staff, and consistent adherence to school policies and expectations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a Montessori environment.
• Experience with differentiated instruction and intervention strategies.

Key Competencies

• Strong instructional skills for diverse learners.
• Knowledge of special education compliance and best practices.
• Collaboration and relationship-building with staff and families.
• Organization and attention to detail.
• Flexibility and problem-solving in dynamic classroom environments.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

This position is performed in a school environment with regular interaction with students, staff, and families. The role requires the ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical requirements of the role include:

• Sitting, standing, and moving throughout the school building for extended periods
• Ability to supervise students in classrooms and common areas
• Using a computer and other standard office equipment
• Occasional lifting, assisting students, or moving materials weighing up to 50 pounds
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and in writing
• Occasional bending, reaching, or stooping as required by the role

The school will provide reasonable accommodations to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Our school is committed to creating a respectful, inclusive workplace that reflects the diversity of our community. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.