Special Education Teacher

Company: Spectrum Center Schools and Programs
Location: Santa Ana
Posted on: January 13, 2026

Job Description:

Starting Salary: $68,640-74,000 /year based on experience PLUS $2,000 Annual Education Stipend Environment: Special Education Program, Elementary School Spectrum Center Schools and Programs , a growing, dynamic organization with a social mission to offer hope, is seeking a Special Education Teacher to join our award-winning team and perform meaningful work in a culture that welcomes innovation, encourages creative expression and offers limitless potential for personal and professional satisfaction! If you're passionate about empowering students with diverse learning needs, thrive in a collaborative and dynamic educational environment, and bring creativity, patience, a solution-focused mindset, a sense of humor, and an unwavering commitment to student growth — We Should Talk! As a Special Education Teacher , you will lead the instructional process for Elementary School students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), designing dynamic and personalized learning experiences within the learning center and/or classroom. Your role includes delivering targeted instruction, utilizing innovative curriculum resources, integrating educational software, and creating comprehensive lesson plans and schedules tailored to the diverse physical, emotional, and educational needs of each student, in alignment with state and school standards. ? Responsibilities Include: Creating an inclusive, collaborative environment that actively involves students, parents, colleagues, and administrators in the educational process. Establishing a classroom climate built on mutual respect, fairness, and clear expectations, emphasizing social development, personal accountability, and positive group interactions by modeling Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Implementing and consistently reinforcing school-wide and classroom-specific PBIS strategies, behavior expectations, reward systems, and appropriate consequences. Tracking and documenting student progress, maintaining accurate student files, and generating comprehensive reports detailing student achievements and activities. Delivering differentiated and targeted instruction individually or collaboratively in a co-teaching environment to effectively meet IEP-specified educational goals. Adapting and modifying curricular content and instructional approaches to accommodate the diverse learning styles and capabilities of students, providing guidance to instructional staff on differentiation methods. Utilizing varied and engaging instructional methods, resources, and educational software to effectively respond to and support diverse student needs and interests. Managing student caseload responsibilities, including developing, updating, and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), goals, and interventions. Preparing detailed daily lesson plans and organizing instructional materials that align with curriculum standards and individual student objectives. Maintaining an organized, safe, and welcoming classroom environment, managing supplies, furniture, and resources effectively according to established procedures. Staying informed on current research-based instructional practices, trends, and developments in special education and subject-specific areas to continually enhance teaching effectiveness. Responding openly and constructively to feedback from formal evaluations and informal observations, actively pursuing ongoing professional growth. Supporting the school community by performing additional duties as assigned, contributing positively to the overall success of the educational program. ? Qualifications Required: Bachelor's degree or higher in education, special education or a closely related field of study. Meet all state teaching license and/or certification requirements. Licensed currently or in the process of obtaining an education specialist or special education teaching credential (Mild/Mod). Ability to obtain and maintain certification in company approved crisis management (PCM) training. Prior experience working with curriculum development, differentiation and instruction, preferably in a special education classroom setting. Prior experience and/or knowledge in special education services and compliance, particularly for students with severe learning disabilities, behavioral disorders and/or emotional disturbance. Prior experience and highly knowledgeable in working with students with individualized education plans (IEP's). Proven success in developing and implementing effective education plans for students with diverse needs. Proficiency in providing motivation and having critical conversations with students that help move them toward realistic goals. Advanced oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem solving, and decision-making ability. Ability to think and act quickly and calmly in an emergency and make independent decisions. Knowledge of relevant technology including experience with instructional technology, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry and basic office equipment. Spectrum Center Schools is a division of ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education , the nation’s leading provider of alternative and special education programs for children and young adults. For more than 45 years, and in partnership with over 235 school districts nationwide, we have helped change the direction of more than 240,000 student lives ! Learn more about our history, our mission and the program services we provide by visiting the link below: https://bit.ly/m/WorkWithPurpose At ChanceLight we believe in providing more than just a job, as a member of our team you'll receive the opportunity to make meaningful impacts, the support needed to achieve success, and all the tools essential to reaching your personal & professional fulfillment! Y our path to a truly rewarding career starts here – where growth, empowerment, and collaboration define our culture; and every day is a Chance to transform lives through education! ? Perks and Benefits Include: Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision Plans Annual Education Stipend - $2,000 FREE Telehealth and Virtual Counseling Sessions FREE Health Advocacy Services and 24/7 Nurse Line Company Paid Life & Disability Insurance Company Paid Employee Assistance Program Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts Personal Protection Insurance Plans Cigna Healthy Pregnancies, Healthy Babies Program Legal Services Insurance Pet Health Insurance Accrual-based Paid Time Off School Hours and Paid Holiday Schedule Extensive Personal and Life Event Paid Leave Policy 401k Retirement Saving Plan Perks at Work Employee Discount Program Opportunities for Growth & Development And So Much More! If you're ready to start making lasting impacts on the lives of students and contribute to the creation of a brighter future — This Is Your Chance ! Join us and together, we can empower students to overcome challenges, build confidence and unlock their full potential! Careers, With ChanceLight Work. With Purpose. Copyright © 2025 ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education, a ChanceLight® company *Benefit plans and eligibility requirements may vary based on role and employment status. Education Required Bachelors or better in Education or related field Licenses & Certifications Required Active or In Process Ed - Teaching Credential Special Ed Certification Skills Preferred Special Education Performance Motivation Student Development Behavioral Intervention Behavioral Disorders Learning Disabilities Crisis Intervention Student Engagement Individualized Education Programs (IEP) Classroom Instruction Curriculum Development Classroom Management Interpersonal Skills Emotional Disturbance Communication Computer Skills Elementary Education Intellect Dis Mld to Mod Behaviors Preferred Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity Motivations Preferred Ability to Make an Impact: Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Keywords: Spectrum Center Schools and Programs, Downey , Special Education Teacher, Education / Teaching , Santa Ana, California