Special Education Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT LA CHEIM

La Cheim has been providing a robust continuum of care for nearly 50 years to help children and adults who were previously unreachable. Our non-public school, community mental health center, therapeutic behavioral services program, and Short-Term Residential Treatment Program offer educational and mental health services throughout Alameda and Contra Costa County. 

Our team is made up of teachers, art therapists, counselors, psychiatrists, psychologists, RNs, social workers, MFTs, and mentors who are known for their caliber and compassion. They create life-changing experiences for those they serve. All La Cheim programs embrace and apply a Trauma-Informed approach to addressing emotional and behavioral issues.

By joining La Cheim you will be part of a supportive community serving an inspiration mission. You will enjoy rich benefits, valuable training and wellness opportunities, close support, and room to grow. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing differentiated instruction and academic interventions for students with multi-grade and diverse learning abilities. The teacher works with and guides the team to create a consistent and integrated academic/therapeutic environment for the classroom. The teacher ensures that each student's academic, social, and emotional needs are met within the guidelines of the program, Ed Code, and the Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals. 

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

1. Must have a valid California Driver License and car insurance
2. Must be able to pass all required tests and clearances (Live Scan (DOJ, FBI, Guardian) TB test, etc.)
3. Understand the process of Master Contracts and ISAs with school districts and SELPAS.
4. Special Education Credential, MHRS or CBEST.  
5. Experience in Special Education preferred. 
6. Hold a valid California Special Education Mild to Moderate Disabilities Credential.

PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES

1. Functions as a “team player,” prioritizing the organization’s best interests.
2. Proactively identifies opportunities for improvement and ways to contribute.
3. Exhibits creativity, adaptability, openness, and a high level of professionalism.
4. Possesses strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
5. Maintains confidentiality with discretion.
6. Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills.
7. Works effectively independently and pays close attention to detail.
8. Collaborates well with other agency staff.
9. Outstanding organizational and time management abilities.
10. Exhibit a strong professional commitment and represent La Cheim effectively while engaging with the community.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The following is the extent of the specific activity required for this position:

1. Stairs – climbing stairs up to 50-100 – up to 2-4 hours, not continuously.
2. Sitting – up to 2 hours, not continuously; standing – up to 4 hours, not continuously
3. Walking – up to 2 hours, not continuously; bending over – up to 1 hour, not continuously.
4. Crawling – up to 0 hours; climbing – up to 0 hours, reaching overhead – up to a few minutes.
5. Crouching – up to ½ hour, not continuously; kneeling – up to a few minutes
6. Balancing – up to 0 hours; pushing or pulling – up to a few minutes.
7. Lifting or carrying – 25 pounds or less; repetitive use of feet – up to 0 hours
8. Repetitive use of hands – up to 0 hours
9. Grasping – with one or both, simple and firm, for up to 1 hour, not continuously
10. Fine dexterity - either hand up to 1 hour, not continuously Auditory and visual acuity – 8 hours within normal limits and maybe with glasses, contact lenses or hearing aids.
11. Driving cars and vans; Exposure to uneven concrete and blacktop
12. Exposure to normal dust, heat, and noise
13. Exposure to emotionally disturbed students who may be physically and verbally violent and require safe physical management.
14. Frequent exposure to office equipment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

1. Create a welcoming and secure learning environment while utilizing data-driven planning and differentiation for an engaging academic curriculum. As a multi-disciplinary team member, the teacher will supervise Teacher Assistants and School Counselors to provide academic, behavioral, and therapeutic services for students. 
2. Implement La Cheim's positive behavior intervention program using the principles of trauma-informed care setting.
3. Complete IEP, including assessments, goal, and progress reporting. 
4. Assist with the educational component of NPS Site Certification annually.
5. Be prepared to respond to crises, including the use of physical intervention with students when necessary to ensure their safety. 
6. Ensure accurate and timely completion of all necessary documentation, including relevant information in billing and electronic health records.
7. Engage caregivers in discussions about student growth and education involvement.
8. Guide and coordinate duties of support staff. Supervising up to four teacher assistants. 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Complete all required trainings as assigned
2. Attend all mandatory meetings
3. Meet regularly for individual oversight with supervisor(s)
4. Other duties may be required as La Cheim continues its development. Employees are expected to be flexible and responsive to changes in the scope of duties.
5. Understand and embody La Cheim's philosophy, organizational culture, and communication channels by practicing a collaborative approach.
6. Complete any additional tasks assigned by the Supervisor, Department Head, and/or CEO
7. Participate in required meetings (classroom, site-wide, and supervision). Attending professional development as directed. 
8. Complete all mandatory training, including through Relias, and Pro-Act. Always maintain a high standard of professional behavior. 
9. La Cheim expects employees to be responsive to program and student needs. Additional duties may be required as the organization develops, and flexibility is key. 
10. Maintain a rewards program for students and communicate progress with families. 
11. Produce the School Accountability Report Card and perform Test Coordinator duties. 
12. Supervise the completion of report cards, credit counts, and transcripts, and oversee the quarterly updates of IEP goals and reporting as required.