Elementary Special Education Teacher

2 openings available. Located in the heart of Lincoln Center-NYC, Academics West is a high-support college preparatory school serving students from 1st through 12th grade who exhibit social-emotional challenges and/or learning differences. Our small student-to-teacher ratio (typically 5:1:1 but can be slightly higher) allows intensive support.

About the role

The Special Education Teacher will deliver direct instruction aligned with students' Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and/or NYS Common Core guidelines. The ideal candidate is bright, energetic, and motivated to help children with learning and emotional challenges, committed to integrating our Clinically Informed Academics (“CIA”) model into daily instruction.

Clinically Informed Academics (CIA) combines clinical knowledge with academic interventions to address the whole student, improving outcomes beyond traditional methods. This approach is both therapeutic and academic, providing intense support for educational success.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and implement scaffolded lessons in core subjects (Reading, Writing, Math, Science, Social Studies).
• Implement consistent classroom management techniques for all students.
• Collaborate with clinicians to ensure consistent expectations, accommodations, and strategies for students' clinical needs.
• Review and assess student data to drive instruction.
• Use Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) strategies to de-escalate students.
• Welcome prospective students during trial days.
• Author bi-weekly progress reports for each student in core academic subjects.
• Review neuropsychological reports, IEPs, and internal learning profiles to inform instruction.
• Attend IEP meetings as needed and submit supporting documentation.
• Attend required student and staff meetings throughout the school year.
• Participate in Professional Development Days.
• Assess student progress throughout the academic year.
• Oversee the assigned Teaching Assistant in your classroom.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master’s Degree in Special Education.
• 1-3+ years of experience teaching students with special education needs.
• New York State (or other US state) Certification in Special Education.
• Prior behavior management training preferred (CPI or other methods).
• Experience working with students who exhibit emotional challenges preferred.

Schedule

• Monday through Thursday: 8 AM–4:00 PM
• Fridays: 8 AM–3:00 PM

Pay

$60,000–$75,000 per year.

Benefits

This position comes with benefits.