$5,000.00 Supplement [2026-2027] Exceptional Children Self Contained Teacher (certification required)

Role Overview

As a Self-Contained AU Teacher at KIPP North Carolina, you will lead a highly structured, supportive classroom designed for students with autism in grades K–5. Your classroom will provide a safe, predictable environment that balances academic instruction with the development of communication, independence, functional life skills, and social-emotional regulation. The objective is to help each student build the skills necessary for greater independence and, when appropriate, increased participation in less restrictive environments.

Classroom & Caseload

• Typical class size: 6–8 students, in alignment with North Carolina DPI requirements for AU self-contained classrooms.
• A Teacher Assistant (TA) is assigned to the classroom to provide additional instructional and behavioral support.
• Students’ goals may include academic skills, communication development, functional life skills, behavior regulation, and social interaction, depending on their IEPs.

Reporting & Support Structure

• Reports directly to the School Principal.
• Receives additional coaching, compliance support, and professional development from the EC Program Specialist and Managing Director of Student Support Services.
• Collaborates closely with general education teachers, related service providers (speech, OT, PT, ABA/behavior specialists), and IEP teams to ensure cohesive supports.
• Supported daily by a Teacher Assistant in instruction, behavior support, and classroom management.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide specially designed instruction (SDI) to K–5 students with autism in a self-contained classroom setting, aligned to their Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
• Implement structured teaching approaches (e.g., TEACCH, visual schedules, structured work systems) to support student engagement, independence, and generalization of skills.
• Utilize the general education curriculum, research-based programs, and evidence-based practices (e.g., ABA strategies, social narratives, task analysis) to deliver academic, behavioral, communication, and social-emotional instruction.
• Collaborate with related service providers (speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, behavior specialists, etc.) to embed communication systems (e.g., AAC devices, PECS) and sensory supports within daily routines.
• Provide direct instruction and/or support in functional and self-help skills such as toileting, dressing, feeding, hygiene, positioning, and safety awareness as needed.
• Develop and ensure consistent implementation of student behavior intervention plans (BIPs), crisis prevention strategies, and positive reinforcement systems.
• Foster a classroom culture that prioritizes predictability, safety, and mutual respect, while encouraging responsibility, cooperation, and independence.
• Maintain accurate and timely IEP documentation, including annual reviews, reevaluations, progress monitoring, and initial referrals, in compliance with IDEA and state regulations.
• Administer and interpret educational evaluations to inform instruction and special education eligibility as required.
• Communicate effectively and regularly with parents/guardians, general education staff, and administrators regarding student progress, behavior, and instructional needs.
• Build strong, positive relationships with students, families, and staff while promoting inclusion opportunities within the broader school community.
• Perform other duties as assigned by school leadership, the EC Program Specialist, or the Managing Director of Student Support Services.

Requirements

• A deep commitment to the mission of KIPP NC and an unwavering belief in the potential of all students.
• An active North Carolina General Curriculum EC Certification or ability to seek reciprocity.
• Experience working with students with autism, preferably in a self-contained or specialized setting.
• Knowledge of and ability to implement structured teaching strategies (e.g., TEACCH, ABA principles, discrete trial training, social narratives, task analysis).
• A bachelor's degree in a relevant content area.
• A criminal background check.
• A demonstrated commitment to closing the opportunity gap.
• A zest, grit, professionalism, and a sense of humor.

Compensation And Benefits

Salary is based on years of experience, degree of education, and level of expertise. This role also comes with a $2,000 salary supplement.