Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher | University Place, WA | 2026–2027 School Year |

Ampersand Therapy is hiring a Special Education Teacher for the 2026–2027 school year in University Place, Washington. We are a women- and therapist-founded company working to elevate the employment experience for school-based professionals. Join a supportive team and make a lasting impact in the lives of students with disabilities in a welcoming, local school district.

Job Highlights:

Location: University Place, WA

Position: Special Education Teacher

Grade Levels: Kindergarten–4th Grade

Setting: Self-contained classroom for students with emotional and behavioral needs

Schedule: Full Time, Monday–Friday

School Year: 2026–2027

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
• Provide specially designed instruction in core academic subjects, social skills, life skills, and behavior
• Create a positive, structured classroom environment that supports student learning and safety
• Design and implement programming for students with intensive social-emotional and behavioral learning needs
• Provide program support to students accessing resource-room and general education classes
• Assist with the development and analysis of Functional Behavioral Assessments
• Develop and implement positive behavior support plans
• Use direct instruction, social stories, visual supports, assistive technology, and other appropriate teaching strategies
• Collect and analyze data to guide instruction and monitor student progress
• Complete IEP documentation, evaluations, progress reports, grading, and attendance records using online systems
• Collaborate with general education staff, families, administrators, multidisciplinary teams, and outside service providers
• Participate in IEP meetings, professional development, staff meetings, and team-planning sessions
• Adapt instruction and interventions to address students' academic, physical, behavioral, and emotional needs
• Maintain a classroom environment based on mutual respect, fairness, consistency, and positive rapport

Qualifications:

• Valid Washington State teaching certificate
• Special Education endorsement required
• Must obtain and maintain current Right Response certification
• Must have current fingerprints on file with OSPI or be willing to complete
• Must provide at least two supervisory references
• Experience in a school or self-contained special education setting preferred

Benefits & Perks:

• Paid Sick Leave
• Healthcare Benefits*
• 401(k) with company matching*
• Reimbursement for licensure, CEUs, and professional development
• W-2 employee status with liability insurance coverage
• Referral bonuses
• No non-compete clause

(*Healthcare benefits available for 0.8 FTE or higher after a short waiting period)

Why Work With Ampersand Therapy?

Ampersand Therapy is a local, women- and therapist-operated company founded by providers who understand what it's like to work in schools. Our mission is to build a community of professionals who feel supported, appreciated, and empowered to make a difference. We proudly serve school districts throughout Western Washington and across several other states.

You'll work alongside a small, passionate team of school-based specialists—some of whom are still active providers in schools themselves. We offer mentorship and support, especially for professionals who are newer to school-based practice, and are deeply committed to equity, sustainability, and community involvement.

Our Values:

• Equity & Inclusion
• Community Engagement
• Environmental Sustainability

Apply today to join a team of passionate educators and make a difference as a Special Education Teacher in University Place, WA!