Description

Purpose of the role

The Lead Special Education Teacher will oversee the IMPACT Center at School of the Nations, providing high-quality, individualized instruction to students with developmental disabilities while fostering an inclusive, Christ-centered learning environment. This role exists to ensure that every student receives tailored educational support through effective IEP implementation, staff supervision, collaborative planning, and strong family engagement. The position also contributes to school-wide efforts to build capacity in inclusive education and promote the academic, social, and spiritual growth of all learners.

Main Duties/Responsibilities

Instruction and Student Support

• Deliver individualized and group instruction to students with developmental disabilities across K–12.

• Design and implement differentiated learning plans aligned with IEP goals and student abilities.

• Integrate literacy, numeracy, life skills, and assistive technology into daily instruction.

• Foster a structured, inclusive, and emotionally supportive classroom environment.

IEP Development and Progress Monitoring

• Develop, implement, and review Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) in collaboration with families and multidisciplinary teams.

• Conduct assessments to inform IEP goals, determine placement, and track student progress.

• Lead bi-annual benchmark meetings to evaluate student growth and adjust support strategies.

Leadership and Supervision

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the IMPACT Center, maintaining a safe and organized learning environment.

• Supervise and coach teaching assistants, including regular feedback and performance reviews.

• Provide in-house training and mentorship to build staff capacity in inclusive practices.

Collaboration and Inclusion

• Work closely with general education and specialist teachers to promote inclusive classroom participation.

• Collaborate with external therapists to align school routines with therapy goals.

• Support integration and transition planning for students into mainstream settings where appropriate.

Parent and Community Engagement

• Maintain ongoing communication with families about student progress, challenges, and strategies for home support.

• Represent the special education program during admissions, onboarding, and community outreach.

• Organize and participate in IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and school events.

Program Development and Compliance

• Support the development and continual improvement of the IMPACT Center’s structure, curriculum, and policies.

• Ensure compliance with internal documentation and data tracking procedures.

• Maintain accurate student records, progress reports, and inventory of resources and equipment.

Professional Growth and Contribution

• Set annual professional goals in consultation with the school’s External Education Specialist.

• Actively engage in professional development opportunities, both internal and external.

• Contribute to school-wide planning, meetings, and committees as needed.

Key Skills / Competencies

• Compassion and Patience: Demonstrates a deep understanding of and empathy for students with developmental disabilities, supporting their growth with patience and consistency.

• Instructional Expertise: Skilled in adapting curriculum and instruction to meet diverse learning needs, with a strong grasp of inclusive education practices.

• Assessment and Planning: Proficient in conducting educational assessments, developing IEPs, and using data to inform teaching and intervention strategies.

• Team Leadership: Experienced in supervising and mentoring support staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive team culture.

• Strong Communication: Communicates effectively with students, staff, and families - both orally and in writing - with cultural sensitivity and professionalism.

• Collaboration: Works well across multidisciplinary teams, promoting alignment between classroom practices, therapy goals, and family support.

• Organizational Skills: Maintains accurate records, manages resources effectively, and ensures smooth daily classroom operations.

• Technological Proficiency: Competent in using assistive technology, AAC devices, and Microsoft Office Suite to support learning and communication.

• Discretion and Judgment: Exercises sound professional judgment and maintains confidentiality in all student-related matters.

• Commitment to Growth: Models a growth mindset, actively seeks feedback, and engages in ongoing professional development.

Previous Experience & Qualifications

• Minimum of 3–5 years of teaching experience in special education settings, ideally with students who have developmental disabilities across primary and secondary levels.

• Proven experience in developing and implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and tracking student progress using data-driven methods.

• Experience working in or leading a self-contained classroom or specialized program within an inclusive school environment.

• Demonstrated success in supervising and mentoring teaching assistants, paraeducators, or support staff.

• Experience collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including therapists, general education teachers, and families.

• Familiarity with inclusive international school settings, Cambridge or similar curricula is an added advantage.

• Background in planning and delivering life skills, functional academics, and adaptive behavior strategies.

• Exposure to using assistive technology and AAC devices in the classroom.

• Participation in school-wide initiatives, such as professional development facilitation, admissions support, or curriculum adaptation, is a plus.

Application Process

• Submit Your Application
  Interested candidates should send the following documents by email to both:
  office@schoolofthenations.org and vacancies@schoolofthenations.org. A cover letter outlining your interest in the position and how your experience aligns with the role.

  • An up-to-date CV/resume, including at least two professional references.

  • A statement of your personal Christian faith and how it informs your teaching practice.

  • Copies of relevant degrees, certifications, and transcripts.

• Application Review
  Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next steps. Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted applicants will be notified.

• First-Round Interview
  Selected candidates will be invited to a virtual interview with the recruitment panel. This may include questions about your professional experience, teaching philosophy, and approach to inclusive education.

• Teaching Demonstration or Portfolio Review
  Candidates may be asked to share a teaching video or portfolio demonstrating their instructional methods, IEP development, and classroom strategies.

• Final Interview and Reference Checks
  Finalists will participate in a second-round interview, which may include school leadership and other stakeholders. References will be contacted at this stage.

• Offer of Employment
  The selected candidate will receive a conditional offer, subject to satisfactory background checks, credential verification, and agreement on the compensation package.