[2026-27] Exceptional Children Teacher (certification required)

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Every School. Every Student. Every Day.

Knowledge is Power Program (KIPP) North Carolina, is a network of eight tuition-free, college-preparatory public charter schools educating approximately 3,000 students in grades K-12 in Durham, Halifax, Northampton and Mecklenburg counties. At KIPP NC, we are committed to improving the life outcomes of North Carolina’s children through the delivery of rigorous, research driven curricula, and clearing the paths that our students choose to follow by ensuring that they have the roadmaps and guideposts they need to arrive at success - however they define it.

At KIPP, we see the gifts in everyone who walks through the doors of our schools. Especially our teachers. Their skill. Energy. Love. Their determination. On the good days and on the hard days. So we support our teachers to make the most of those gifts. It starts with respect – for our teachers’ innate talent and desire to learn, for their professional growth and the lives they lead beyond our walls. We offer pay and benefits that reflect our appreciation for the invaluable role our teachers play in lighting paths to opportunity for our students. And as our teachers progress through the day, the year and their careers, we ensure they always feel the KIPP Team and Family at their backs, with opportunities to lead, and support to grow.

Together, our students, schools, families and communities share an ambitious mission to create a future without limits. And the only way to realize it is with talented teachers like you. Shape the future, for your students and yourself, by joining KIPP today.

Role Overview – EC Self-Contained Autism Teacher (K–5)

As a Self-Contained AU Teacher at KIPP North Carolina, you will lead a highly structured, supportive classroom designed for students with autism in grades K–5. Your classroom will provide a safe, predictable environment that balances academic instruction with the development of communication, independence, functional life skills, and social-emotional regulation. The objective is to help each student build the skills necessary for greater independence and, when appropriate, increased participation in less restrictive environments.

Classroom & Caseload

• Typical class size: 6–8 students, in alignment with North Carolina DPI requirements for AU self-contained classrooms.
• A Teacher Assistant (TA) is assigned to the classroom to provide additional instructional and behavioral support.
• Students’ goals may include academic skills, communication development, functional life skills, behavior regulation, and social interaction, depending on their IEPs.

Reporting & Support Structure

• Reports directly to the School Principal.
• Receives additional coaching, compliance support, and professional development from the EC Program Specialist and Managing Director of Student Support Services.
• Collaborates closely with general education teachers, related service providers (speech, OT, PT, ABA/behavior specialists), and IEP teams to ensure cohesive supports.
• Supported daily by a Teacher Assistant in instruction, behavior support, and classroom management.

Key Responsibilities – EC Self-Contained Autism Teacher (K–5)

• Provide specially designed instruction (SDI) to K–5 students with autism in a self-contained classroom setting, aligned to their Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
• Implement structured teaching approaches (e.g., TEACCH, visual schedules, structured work systems) to support student engagement, independence, and generalization of skills.
• Utilize the general education curriculum, research-based programs, and evidence-based practices (e.g., ABA strategies, social narratives, task analysis) to deliver academic, behavioral, communication, and social-emotional instruction.
• Collaborate with related service providers (speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, behavior specialists, etc.) to embed communication systems (e.g., AAC devices, PECS) and sensory supports within daily routines.
• Provide direct instruction and/or support in functional and self-help skills such as toileting, dressing, feeding, hygiene, positioning, and safety awareness as needed.
• Develop and ensure consistent implementation of student behavior intervention plans (BIPs), crisis prevention strategies, and positive reinforcement systems.
• Foster a classroom culture that prioritizes predictability, safety, and mutual respect, while encouraging responsibility, cooperation, and independence.
• Maintain accurate and timely IEP documentation, including annual reviews, reevaluations, progress monitoring, and initial referrals, in compliance with IDEA and state regulations.
• Administer and interpret educational evaluations to inform instruction and special education eligibility as required.
• Communicate effectively and regularly with parents/guardians, general education staff, and administrators regarding student progress, behavior, and instructional needs.
• Build strong, positive relationships with students, families, and staff while promoting inclusion opportunities within the broader school community.
• Perform other duties as assigned by school leadership, the EC Program Specialist, or the Managing Director of Student Support Services.

Required Qualifications

The following are required of all KIPP North Carolina teachers:

• A deep commitment to the mission of KIPP NC and an unwavering belief in the potential of all students
• Possess a deep commitment improving the lives of kids from low-income communities
• Active North Carolina General Curriculum EC Certification or ability to seek reciprocity
• Experience working with students with autism, preferably in a self-contained or specialized setting.
• Knowledge of and ability to implement structured teaching strategies (e.g., TEACCH, ABA principles, discrete trial training, social narratives, task analysis).
• A bachelor's degree in a relevant content area
• Pass criminal background check
• Demonstrated commitment to closing the opportunity gap
• Zest, grit, professionalism, and a sense of humor

Preferred Qualifications

• The following are not required but are advantageous for candidates:
• At least 2 full years of experience as a special education teacher and case manager within an elementary school setting
• Experience in teaching in a high performing charter school and/or schools with a high population of students with free and reduced lunch
• Demonstrated success in raising the achievement levels of traditionally under-served students

Compensation and Benefits

Salary is based on years of experience, degree of education, and level of expertise. This role also comes with a $2,000 salary supplement.

About KIPP

KIPP, the Knowledge Is Power Program, is a national network of free, open enrollment, college preparatory public schools dedicated to preparing students in underserved communities for success in college and life. There are 242 KIPP schools in 20 states and the District of Columbia, serving more than 100,000 students. Nationally, KIPP students are graduating from four-year colleges at three times the national average for low-income students.

Non-Discrimination Statement and Policy

KIPP North Carolina does not and shall not discriminate on the race, color, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, disability, source of income, or status as a veteran in any of its activities or operations.