Description
At Rocketship Public Schools, we believe in the infinite possibility of human potential. We believe that every student deserves the right to dream, to discover, and to develop their unique potential and it is our responsibility and our privilege to unleash the potential inside every Rocketeer we serve.
Rocketship Public Schools is a non-profit network of public elementary charter schools that propels student achievement, develops exceptional educators, and partners with parents who enable high-quality public schools to thrive in their community.
Position Description: Rocketship Special Education Teachers, known as Education Specialists (Mild/Moderate Support Needs), play a critical role in ensuring every student has access to an excellent, inclusive education. Specialists work closely with students, families, general education teachers, and paraprofessionals to provide academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support aligned to Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Responsibilities:
- Ensure that all students work toward and achieve the rigorous academic goals outlined in their IEPs, aligned with Common Core standards and Rocketship’s core content;
- Provide individualized and small-group instruction, as well as push-in and pull-out support, to ensure students access to grade-level content as outlined in their IEPs;
- Co-teach with general education teachers to model and uphold accommodations, modifications, and meaningful inclusion in the classroom;
- Partner with paraprofessionals to ensure consistent, high-quality support for students across settings;
- Own and manage an IEP caseload aligned with state regulations, ensuring compliance with IDEA and state law;
- Draft and write professional, compliant IEPs; facilitate IEP meetings; and maintain accurate, up-to-date records in the IEP system;
- Collaborate with psychologists and related service providers (e.g., speech, OT) to interpret assessments and ensure students receive appropriate services;
- Communicate with families and team members on IEP goals, accommodations, and student progress;
- Approach behavior with the mindset that all behaviors communicate a need, and partner with students, families, and school staff to develop responsive supports such as Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs);
- Apply strategies, including principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), to promote positive student behavior and create supportive learning environments;
- Partner with families through IEP meetings, regular communication, and home visits to ensure transparency and shared ownership of student growth.
Requirements:
- Hold a B.A./B.S. degree from an accredited institution;
- All Education Specialist must have a valid Lifetime License or Provisional License in the appropriate Cross-Categorical Endorsement OR the individual must be eligible to obtain a 1 Year License with Stipulations and enroll in an accredited credentialing program during their first year at Rocketship;
- Must maintain active and in-good-standing credential status throughout employment with Rocketship.
Preferred Qualifications:
- At least 2 years of experience working with children in special education, behavioral support, or related settings;
- Background or understanding of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles;
- Knowledge of special education law, IDEA compliance, and effective inclusion practices.
Benefits:
- Excellent health and wellness benefits;
- 403b retirement plan;
- Flexible spending account (FSA);
- Generous paid time off.