Early Childhood Special Education Teacher

About the role

We are currently seeking an experienced Early Childhood Special Education Teacher to lead our inclusive TK/Kindergarten classroom. This educator will be responsible for designing and implementing a developmentally appropriate, standards-aligned program that reflects the California Kindergarten curriculum and California Department of Education standards, while ensuring full access for students with diverse learning needs.

Responsibilities

• Serve as lead teacher for our inclusive TK/Kindergarten classroom
• Create a literacy-rich classroom environment that fosters early reading, writing, and language development
• Design and implement developmentally appropriate, child-centered curricula focused on:
  • Early literacy and phonological awareness
  • Print concepts and letter recognition
  • Vocabulary and oral language development
  • Emergent writing and storytelling
  • Inclusive academic readiness
  • Social Emotional Learning
• Differentiate instruction and modify curriculum to ensure all learners can access literacy and academic content
• Use multisensory and play-based approaches to teach literacy and foundational academic skills
• Support students using AAC devices, visual supports, and other communication tools
• Collaborate closely with speech therapists to integrate language development throughout the school day
• Create curricula that honor and respect each child, with particular attention to inclusive and anti-bias practices
• Cultivate a community of belonging where each child feels seen, heard, and valued
• Create a nurturing and safe environment to meet the diverse needs of students
• Develop differentiated methods of instruction to meet the needs of each student
• Ongoing observation and assessment to guide instruction and track student progress
• Collaborate regularly with our therapy team and parents
• Serve as an advocate for all students
• Track goals, update assessments, and coordinate student success plans
• Maintain a positive classroom culture rooted in respect, celebration, and shared joy

Qualifications

• Applicants MUST hold a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Child Development, or a related field from an accredited program.
• Applicants MUST have either:
  • A valid Special Education teaching credential, OR
  • A Master’s Degree in Special Education (or related field)
• Preferred: Experience teaching TK, Kindergarten, or early elementary students
• Experience with early literacy instruction, including phonological awareness, print concepts, emergent reading, and early writing
• Knowledge of AAC systems and communication supports
• Knowledge and expertise in supporting developmental needs in areas including:
  • Cognition
  • Communication
  • Social-emotional development
  • Self-help skills
  • Fine and gross motor development
• Basic knowledge of commonly used ASL words
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with children, families, and professionals
• A deep understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity and the ability to engage effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Knowledge of best practices in inclusive education and early childhood development and a genuine belief in the power of inclusion
• Ability to work effectively as part of a transdisciplinary team, collaborating with teachers, therapists, and specialists
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine passion for working with children of all abilities
• Flexibility to adapt to the dynamic needs of a growing and innovative program
• Regular access to reliable transportation
• Commitment to continued professional development
• Conversational fluency in Spanish is a plus

Additional Requirements

• Livescan clearance and criminal record check required
• Current Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification required
• Physical Requirements of the Job: Applicants should be comfortable standing for 2+ hours per day, stooping, bending, climbing, and walking frequently, lifting up to 40 pounds, using appropriate physical interventions when necessary to maintain a safe learning environment, positioning students in specialized equipment and assisting with toileting or diapering when necessary