Special Education Inclusion Specialist

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Extensive Support Needs Inclusion Specialist 
(Special Education Teacher)

Position Overview

The Inclusion Specialist reports to the Principal to ensure that Special Education services are in compliance with Special Education laws and related federal, state, local regulations, and the school’s charter. The Inclusion Specialist serves as the Case Manager for students with disabilities and provides  direct support to General Education teachers on differentiation of curriculum, accommodations, and modifications for students with disabilities. The primary functions and responsibilities of the Inclusion Specialist include, but are not limited to:

Planning & Collaboration

• Write and implement learning objectives that are measurable, based on Common Core standards as well as student assessment data

• Plan units of study and lessons based on the general education curriculum 

• Collaborate with classroom teachers, teacher assistants, and other support personnel regarding appropriate accommodations and modifications

• Works closely with the school psychologist and other providers of related services for students with disabilities to ensure optimal services as provided and that the compliance-related issues are addressed in a timely manner.

• Schedule and attend weekly grade team meetings to  discuss curriculum, planning, and student progress 

• Provide specialized materials and assist in identifying alternate device needs for students

• Develop, support, and  provide intervention support services for students without disabilities

• Participate and attend SSPT process and meetings

Instruction & Implementation

• Provide direct instructional support to all students with an IEP

• Facilitate necessary accommodations for standardized testing, in accordance with the goals and objectives in each student’s IEP.

• Provide direct services to students with disabilities, individually and in small groups in accordance with the student’s IEP

• Administer Triennial/Initial formal assessments to inform instruction and IEP development

• Administer informal assessments for IEP data collection 

• Administer and review end of unit tests in reading, writing, and math to track student achievement of standards

• Create and administer standards based-interim assessments and personal growth plans  including but not limited to: observation recording tools, checklists and inventories, rubrics, and quizzes

• Assist with the implementation of behavioral management strategies that are structured, consistent, respectful and responsive to student needs.

Communication & Reporting 

• Maintain detailed student special education records and electronic databases for special education and all related paperwork

• Communicate with special education students, parents/guardians on a regular basis

• Attend parent/teacher conferences 

• Facilitate IEP Meetings 

• Analyze student work and assessments to inform instruction and create and execute data action plans that yield significant student progress several times per year

• Complete IEP Goal Progress Reports, as needed. 

Qualifications

• Moderate to Severe Special Education Credential from the CA Commission on Teacher Credentialing

• Evidence of successful experience in a constructivist, multiage/looping learning environment serving a diverse student with a variety of learning styles and abilities 

• Excellent communication skills (both oral and written)

• Ability to use discretion and good judgment when dealing with confidential and sensitive information

• Knowledgeable of federal, state, and local special education laws and regulations. 

• Bachelor’s Degree required. Graduate Degree or equivalent is preferred

• Must have current certification in CPR and First Aid

Compensation

Qualified candidates will be placed on our Certificated Teacher Salary Schedule based on status of credential, and earned degrees. Odyssey also offers employees 100% coverage of medical, dental, and vision insurance and 50% paid coverage for eligible dependents. Certificated employees also participate in the CA State Teachers Retirement System (STRS).

The anticipated salary range for this position is $60,000 – $75,000 annually, based on qualifications, including years of experience and educational background.

EEO Statement

Odyssey Charter Schools is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

About Odyssey Charter Schools

Odyssey Charter Schools are a pair of independent, public charter schools located in the Altadena community that currently serve over 850 students in grades Transitional Kindergarten  through 8th grade. Initially established in 1999, our two campuses offer students and families an educational option that is centered on Academic Excellence, Social-Emotional Wellbeing, and Social Responsibility in a diverse by design environment. 

Two hallmarks of Odyssey Charter Schools are looping classrooms and workshop-based instruction. Looping is the practice of having the same teacher through two grade levels. This creates the opportunity for teachers and students to develop deeper relationships and a richer learning experience. The workshop format allows teachers to be both mentors and models. In this format students practice, develop and explore at their own learning level using their personal experience to scaffold and integrate knowledge. These two approaches further the goal of creating a sense of community and independent, interactive learners across our campuses.

Pre-Employment Contingency
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of all required pre-employment clearances, including but not limited to background checks, fingerprint clearance, and verification of credentials, in accordance with applicable laws and school requirements.