Special Education Teacher (6-12)

Job Description

Position Title

6-12 Special Education Teacher Location: Roosevelt Preparatory Academy (555 S. Jackrabbit Tr. Buckeye, AZ 85326) Compensation Type: Salaried Compensation Amount: $44,370-$68,440 Distinctive benefits for Great Hearts faculty Exceptional Benefits (medical, dental, vision etc.) with minimal employee cost Matching 401K program Uniquely valuable professional development offerings, from great books seminars with academy colleagues, to leadership and special education coursework/pathways, to reduced tuition graduate degree support with select partner universities

Position Summary

Great Hearts Academies is committed to serving the students within our special education population in a manner that reflects and affirms their dignity and rightful participation within the larger student body. Through the use of consultation, resource, and inclusion models in a variety of academic environments, the Special Education team aims to provide support for students while working to ensure as much time as appropriate is spent within the general classroom.

Duties and Responsibilities

Providing direct and consultative services to students with IEPs in the school environment Collaborating with related service providers and assisting general education staff in the implementation of accommodations and modifications Writing and maintaining all IEPs, Prior Written Notices, and evaluation paperwork, ensuring compliance with state and federal guidelines Planning and facilitating committee meetings throughout the special education process, as well as leading ongoing communication and collaboration with parents, staff, and administrative staff regarding student planning and progress. Managing the transition of new enrollees eligible for special education and related services. Additional responsibilities may include managing the evaluation process, coordinating 504 plans and conducting AZELLA testing and ELL programing to eligible English language learners. Required/Preferred Education: Bachelor's degree and Special Education Teaching Certificate or Commitment to enrolling in the Teacher-in-Residence program at Rio Salado College and obtaining the Special Education Teaching Certificate - Mild to Moderate Disabilities by the time of employment. Great Hearts has identified two certification pathways through Rio Salado College that allow us to "grow our own” special education teachers, the ESS Teacher-in-Residence Program (The TIR) and the ESS Post-Baccalaureate program (The Post-Bacc). Both two-year programs result in a special education teaching certificate upon completion of the required coursework to meet the ADE's criteria. For the TIR Program, candidates will be hired as a special education teacher/ESS Coordinator and fulfill that role while taking classes towards certification with Rio Salado College. For the Post-Bacc Program, candidates will remain in their current role at Great Hearts while taking classes towards certification with Rio Salado College. Required/Preferred Experience: 1 year of successful teaching experience (preferably in a K-12 school setting) 1 year of successful Special Education teaching experience (preferred) The ideal candidate has previous experience in Special Education. Required/Preferred Skills: Certifications: Arizona Department of Education Special Education Certificate in Cross/Categorical or Mild/Moderate; Alternative Teaching with approved area in Mild/Moderate Disabilities. Alternative teaching certificates must be converted to provisional or standard mild to moderate within a two-year period. Physical Functions: Requires but is not limited to standing, sitting, repetitious hand and body movements, bending, squatting, and reaching. May be required to move or position equipment up to 15 pounds approximately. US work authorization is required, but we do accept OPT/CPT candidates. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal history background check and fingerprint clearance in accordance with state requirements. Travel required: May need to travel locally for training and professional development opportunities. This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions. It does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Great Hearts Academies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our purpose is to cultivate the minds and hearts of students through the pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. Great Hearts Academies leads the way in classical, liberal arts education. We are a growing network of charter schools and private Christian schools, expanding in existing and new regions across Arizona, Louisiana, and Texas. Whether you are seeking teaching, leadership, or campus support opportunities, we have established a mission-driven culture and emphasis on learning and growing, professionally and personally. At Great Hearts, we provide a calling to shape the future through an education that fosters human flourishing and academic excellence. We celebrate diversity and welcome individuals from all backgrounds—inside and outside education—who bring unique perspectives and ideas to enrich our community. Through meaningful conversations and collaboration, we foster a strong, supportive cohort of educators. At Great Hearts, your passion and expertise will thrive in a supportive and dynamic environment. Learn how you can grow both in mind and heart as an employee of Great Hearts. If you need support with the Careers website, application or the hiring process, please contact us at careers@greathearts.org.