Job Description

Job DetailsJob Location: Memphis, TN 38132Position Title: Special Education Teacher
Department: Instructional Staff
Reports To: Principal/ Instructional Leader
Location: Southern Avenue Charter Elementary School
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Summary:
Southern Avenue Charter School is seeking a highly skilled, student-centered Special Education Teacher to support the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional development of students with disabilities in grades K–5. This role requires a professional who is passionate about inclusive education, demonstrates a deep understanding of diverse learning needs, and can collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing individualized instruction aligned with each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), fostering a safe, supportive and culturally responsive classroom environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Instruction and Curriculum Implementation
Design and deliver individualized and small-group instruction tailored to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities, including those with learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and emotional or behavioral challenges.
Modify and adapt general education curricula to ensure accessibility for all students, using evidence-based instructional practices and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles.
Integrate technology, assistive tools, and differentiated teaching strategies to enhance student engagement and independence.
IEP Development and Implementation
Serve as the case manager for assigned students; develop, implement, and monitor IEPs in accordance with federal and state regulations.
Conduct comprehensive assessments to inform instructional planning and track student progress toward IEP goals and grade-level standards.
Collect, analyze, and report data regularly to inform instruction, guide decision-making, and ensure compliance with IDEA requirements.
Behavioral and Social-Emotional Support
Implement individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs), Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and restorative practices as needed.
Foster students’ self-regulation, executive functioning, and social skills development through direct instruction and embedded supports.
Respond to behavioral crises in a calm and effective manner, collaborating with behavior specialists and mental health professionals when appropriate.
Collaboration and Communication
Work closely with general education teachers, paraprofessionals, related service providers (e.g., speech therapists, occupational therapists), and administrators to ensure cohesive and inclusive instruction.
Provide professional support and guidance to colleagues on instructional accommodations, modifications, and inclusive teaching strategies.
Maintain ongoing communication with families to share progress updates, build partnerships, and actively involve caregivers in the educational process.
Compliance and Documentation
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of IEPs, progress reports, service logs, assessments, and parent communications in accordance with district and state guidelines.
Participate in and lead IEP meetings, student support teams (SST), multidisciplinary evaluations, and professional development sessions.
Stay informed of changes in special education law, policy, and instructional best practices through ongoing professional learning.
QualificationsQualifications:
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
Valid State Teaching License with Special Education Certification or Endorsement.
Demonstrated experience working with elementary-age children in special education settings.
Deep understanding of IDEA, Section 504, and relevant compliance regulations.
Preferred:
Training or certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), trauma-informed practices, or structured literacy (e.g., Orton-Gillingham, Wilson).
Experience in co-teaching or inclusion-based settings.
Familiarity with data management platforms (e.g., IEP software systems).
Bilingual or multilingual proficiency is an asset.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
Position is primarily based in a classroom setting, with occasional travel between school buildings.
May require lifting and positioning students, implementing physical interventions, or supporting students with mobility challenges.
Regularly requires standing, walking, speaking, and engaging in classroom activities.
Occasional evening hours required for meetings or school events
Equal Opportunity Statement
Southern Avenue Charter Elementary Charter School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable law.