Middle school special education teacher - Social studies / Science

About the role

KIPP Baltimore is part of the KIPP network, dedicated to providing an excellent education to students from underserved communities. The Special Education Teacher (Social Studies/Science) plays a crucial role in shaping this vision.

Responsibilities

• Hold high expectations for all students and work to foster their academic and personal growth.
• Set class and individual goals using ongoing assessments to track progress and adjust instruction as needed.
• Design and implement data-driven assessments to inform instructional decisions and support continuous growth.
• Apply deep knowledge of special education practices and social studies/science content to deliver engaging, standards-aligned, and accessible instruction.
• Develop long-term plans, units, and lessons using backward design, focusing on student mastery and IEP-aligned outcomes.
• Plan lessons that foster critical thinking, scientific inquiry, historical analysis, and meet the diverse learning needs of students.
• Differentiate instruction and provide specialized supports, accommodations, and modifications to effectively address each student's unique needs.
• Write, implement, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in collaboration with related service providers and families.
• Collaborate with general education teachers to co-plan and co-teach inclusive social studies/science instruction.
• Implement and reinforce school-wide culture and management policies in the classroom and across the school.
• Foster a positive learning atmosphere that encourages student self-efficacy and independence.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with students, families, and colleagues to support student success.
• Incorporate students' backgrounds and experiences into instruction, valuing their unique contributions.
• Communicate proactively and effectively with parents, students, staff, and guests through various channels.
• Uphold the school's vision, mission, and values by actively engaging with families and communities through open communication and events.
• Engage in professional development by collaborating with colleagues, reflecting on instructional practices, and continuously seeking ways to improve.
• Adhere to all school policies, complete clerical and compliance tasks (including IEP documentation) as needed, and take leadership roles in school-wide initiatives and committees.

Qualifications

• Maryland State Teacher Certification in Special Education, or eligibility to obtain certification.
• Eligible for hire by Baltimore City Public Schools.
• Two years of teaching experience in a public school, ideally in special education and/or social studies or science (strongly preferred).
• Passion for working with students from historically resilient communities.
• Experience teaching in a predominantly African American environment (preferred).
• Experience writing and implementing IEPs, and collaborating in co-taught or inclusion settings (preferred).

Desired Qualities

• Knowledge That Empowers: Deep mastery of special education practice and social studies/science content, and a talent for making that content come alive for students of all learning profiles.
• Data-Driven Excellence: Driven by student success, using data like a compass to adjust instruction in real time and engage in a continuous cycle of planning, delivering, assessing, and reflecting.
• Joyful and Inclusive Classroom: Creating a space where every student feels seen, heard, and respected, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning and fostering independence and promoting student voice.
• Reflective Leadership and Growth: Seeing every challenge as an opportunity, always seeking feedback and refining practice, and using self-awareness to strengthen relationships with students and colleagues.
• Planned and Prepared: Approaching each day with intention and purpose, thoroughly preparing lessons and IEP requirements to ensure all students have the tools and support they need to thrive and reach their highest potential.

Additional Information

• Competitive salary with opportunities for growth.
• Benefits include health insurance, dental and vision coverage, prescription medication, and retirement plans through the State of Maryland or City of Baltimore, plus optional 403(b) savings plans.
• Additional benefits include life and long-term disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance counseling, dependent child tuition waivers, and higher education tuition reimbursement.