About Alaka’i O Kaua’i Charter School

Alaka’i O Kaua’i Charter School is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. We believe in providing individualized support to meet the diverse needs of our student body, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Job Overview

Alaka’i O Kaua’i Charter School is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Inclusion Special Education Teacher to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in special education, experience working in inclusive classroom settings, and a commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment for students with diverse needs. This teacher will work collaboratively with general education teachers to provide specialized instruction and support, ensuring that students with disabilities can access and benefit from the general education curriculum.

Key Responsibilities

• Individualized Instruction: Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs(IEPs) for students with disabilities, providing tailored instruction to meet each student’s unique needs.
• Shared-Teaching: Collaborate with general education teachers to support classroom lessons, ensuring that all students can participate in classroom activities.
• Differentiation: Adapt and modify curriculum materials and instructional strategies to accommodate the learning needs of students with disabilities according to their IEPs.
• Assessment: Conduct ongoing assessments to monitor student progress, adjust instructional strategies, and update IEPs as needed.
• Behavior Support: Develop and implement behavior intervention plans, using positive behavioral supports to address challenging behaviors.
• Collaboration: Work closely with general education teachers, support staff, and administration to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
• Family Communication: Maintain regular communication with families, providing updates on student progress and collaborating on strategies to support learning at home.
• Professional Development: Participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in special education and inclusive teaching strategies.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding special education, maintaining accurate and up-to-date records throughout the IEP development process.

Qualifications 

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Certification: Valid Hawaii teaching license with a Special Education endorsement.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of teaching experience, preferably in an inclusive setting.
• Skills: Strong knowledge of special education laws, IEP development, and evidence-based instructional strategies. Excellent collaboration, communication, and organizational skills.
• Technology: Proficiency in using educational technology and software for assessments and instructional planning.

Knowledge of AMLE Successful Middle School Practices:

The Special Education Teacher should demonstrate a deep understanding and application of AMLE successful middle school practices, including:

• Educators who value working with young adolescents and are committed to their success.
• Curriculum that is challenging, exploratory, integrative, and relevant, tailored to individual student needs.
• Varied teaching and learning approaches that respond to students’ diverse needs and abilities. Organizational structures that support meaningful relationships and personalized learning.
• Adult advocates for every student, ensuring equitable access to education and support.
• School-wide climate that fosters belongingness, inclusion, and emotional and physical safety.
• Respectful and inclusive culture that values diversity and promotes social-emotional growth.
• Comprehensive guidance and support services to address students’ academic, social, and emotional needs.
• Strong community partnerships that enhance student learning and support transitions.
• Technology and information resources that support personalized learning and accessibility.

Working Conditions

The Special Education Teacher will work in a pull-out classroom, as well as an inclusion classroom setting within Alaka’i O Kaua’i Charter School, with opportunities for collaboration, professional development, and community engagement. The position may require occasional evening or weekend hours for meetings, IEP conferences, and school events. Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not exhaustive. Duties and responsibilities may be subject to change based on organizational needs and priorities.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following to info@alakaiokauai.org:

1. A cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position.
2. A current resume.
3. Copies of relevant certifications and transcripts.
4. Contact information for three professional references.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Alaka’i O Kaua’i Charter School is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.