Elementary Special Education Teacher

Position Type:
Teaching Opportunities 2026/2027 School Year

Date Posted:
1/5/2026

Location:
Jersey City Public Schools

Closing Date:
09/01/2026


POSITION (S): Elementary Special Education Teacher


REQUIREMENTS:
New Jersey Teaching Certification for Grades K-8 or K6 (
New Jersey Teaching Certification for Special Education:
Teacher of the Handicapped OR
Teacher of Students w/Disabilities (


SALARY/STIPEND:As Per Contractual Agreement


LOCATION: Various District Schools


STARTING DATE: As Needed


**Please be advised that the position you are applying for may be either
permanent or for a leave replacement position (depending on the District's need)**


**Please Upload All Teaching Certificates**


CERTIFICATION SUPPORT:
Alternate Route:
NJEdCert:

Elementary Special Education Teacher


In New Jersey, an Elementary Special Education Teacher job description typically involves providing specialized instruction and support to students with disabilities, ensuring IEP compliance, and collaborating with other educators and families to meet individual student needs.


Here's a more detailed breakdown of the key responsibilities and expectations:


Core Responsibilities:
Instruction and Curriculum:

• Develop and implement individualized instruction and lesson plans based on students' IEPs (Individualized Education Plans).

• Adapt and modify general education curriculum and materials to meet the specific needs of students with disabilities.

• Provide instruction in a variety of settings, including general education classrooms, resource rooms, and specialized classrooms.

• Teach academic, social, and life skills to students with a range of disabilities.

Assessment and Evaluation:

• Conduct ongoing assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly.

• Assist with the evaluation and assessment of students with disabilities.

• Maintain accurate records of student progress and IEP implementation.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with general education teachers, related service providers (e.g., speech therapists, occupational therapists), and other members of the Child Study Team.

• Participate in IEP meetings, including development, review, and implementation.

• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians regarding student progress and IEP implementation.

Creating a Positive Learning Environment:

• Create a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students.

• Promote positive student behaviors and social-emotional development.

• Manage classroom dynamics and address student needs effectively.

Other Duties:

• May be responsible for providing support during Extended School Year (ESY) programs.

• May be involved in professional development activities to enhance skills and knowledge.

• May be required to supervise students during breaks and transitions.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Certification: Hold a valid New Jersey Special Education Teacher certification.

• Education: Possess a bachelor's degree in education or a related field.

• Experience: Prior experience teaching students with disabilities is preferred.

• Skills: Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills are essential.

• Knowledge: Familiarity with IEP development and implementation, special education laws and regulations, and evidence-based instructional strategies is expected.

Jersey City Public Schools maintains a pool of qualified candidates for potential teaching positions. Please note that this posting:

• Does not guarantee placement at a specific school.
• Does not confirm that a vacant position is currently available to be filled.

Certification Requirements
To be considered for a teaching position, you must hold a valid, fully granted NJDOE certification.

• Mandatory: Your most current NJDOE certification must be included in your application.
• Exclusions: Substitute certifications are not sufficient for these positions.
• Updating Your Profile: If your certification status changes after applying (e.g., you are granted a Certificate of Eligibility with or without advanced standing), please email Ms. Bonilla at View email address on click.appcast.io to ensure your profile is accurately updated in our pool of qualified applicants.

The Hiring Process

• Interview Process: Human Resources does not conduct initial interviews for teaching positions. These are handled directly by school administration. They will contact you directly should they have an opening.
• Selection: Should a need arise, school principals will review the candidate pool to select candidates for an interview. Interviews may be in person, virtual, and could include demonstration lessons.
• Onboarding: Human Resources will follow up with selected candidates to guide them through the onboarding process.

Helpful Resources

• NJDOE Certification Page
• Apply for Teaching Certification
• Alternate Route Pathway
• NJDOE Reciprocity (Out-of-State)