Extensive Support Needs Inclusion Specialist (Special Education Teacher) - SPED Credential Required
Reports To: Principal FLSA Status: Exempt
The anticipated salary range for this position is $60,000 – $75,000 annually, based on qualifications, including years of experience and educational background.
Position Description
The Extensive Support Needs Inclusion Specialist (Special Education Teacher) at Odyssey Charter Schools is responsible for ensuring that students with disabilities receive high-quality, compliant, and individualized educational services that support both academic achievement and social-emotional development. This role serves as the case manager for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and collaborates closely with general education teachers, school leadership, families, and related service providers to ensure inclusive, equitable learning environments.
The Inclusion Specialist supports the implementation of differentiated instruction, accommodations, and modifications aligned with California State Standards and each student’s IEP. This position plays a critical role in maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local special education laws, as well as Odyssey Charter Schools’ charter and educational philosophy.
The primary functions and responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
Planning & Collaboration
- Develop and implement measurable learning objectives aligned with Common Core Standards and student assessment data
- Plan units of study and lessons aligned with general education curriculum and individualized student needs
- Collaborate with general education teachers, instructional aides, and support staff to ensure appropriate accommodations and modifications
- Work closely with school psychologists and related service providers to ensure delivery of appropriate services and compliance with IEP requirements
- Participate in and contribute to grade-level team meetings focused on curriculum, planning, and student progress
- Provide specialized instructional materials and assist in identifying assistive technology or alternative device needs
- Support intervention services for both students with and without disabilities as appropriate
- Participate in Student Success/Support Team (SSPT) processes and meetings
Instruction & Implementation
- Provide direct instructional support to students with IEPs in both general education and specialized settings
- Deliver individualized and small group instruction aligned with IEP goals and objectives
- Facilitate accommodations for classroom and state testing in accordance with student IEPs
- Administer formal (initial and triennial) and informal assessments to inform instruction and IEP development
- Monitor and assess student progress through multiple measures, including unit assessments and data collection tools
- Develop and implement standards-based interim assessments and individualized growth plans
- Support implementation of behavioral strategies that are structured, consistent, respectful, and responsive to student needs
Communication & Reporting
- Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant special education records and documentation, including IEPs and progress reports
- Facilitate and lead IEP meetings in accordance with legal timelines and requirements
- Communicate regularly and effectively with students, families, and staff regarding student progress and services
- Participate in parent-teacher conferences and other school-based meetings
- Analyze student data to inform instruction and develop action plans to support measurable student growth
- Complete IEP goal progress reporting and compliance documentation as required
Compliance & Professional Responsibilities
- Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local special education laws and regulations
- Maintain confidentiality of student records and sensitive information
- Review, understand, and adhere to Odyssey Charter Schools policies, procedures, and charter commitments
- Engage in ongoing professional development and continuous learning
- Model professionalism, ethical conduct, and accountability in all interactions
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned
Experience & Education
- Valid California Education Specialist Credential (Moderate to Severe / Extensive Support Needs) issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
- Bachelor’s degree required; graduate degree preferred
- Demonstrated experience supporting students with diverse learning needs in inclusive settings
- Knowledge of federal, state, and local special education laws and compliance requirements
- Experience in a constructivist, workshop-based, or inclusive learning environment preferred
- Strong instructional, assessment, and data analysis skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams
- Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment with confidential information
- Bilingual (Spanish) highly desirable
- Current CPR and First Aid certification required (or ability to obtain)
Physical Demands and Work Environment
This position requires the ability to perform a variety of physical activities necessary to support a classroom and school environment. Duties may include standing, walking, sitting for extended periods, using hands for instructional materials and technology, reaching with hands and arms, and communicating effectively with students and staff.
The role may occasionally require bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or assisting students with mobility and physical needs. Employees may be required to lift, move, or support items or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required for this position include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
The work environment is a school setting with moderate noise levels and frequent interaction with students, staff, and families. The position may involve working in classrooms, offices, and outdoor areas on campus.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position in accordance with applicable law.
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.
Note
The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and the level of work performed by employees, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.
Employee Statement of Understanding:
I have read and understand the job description for my position. I am able to perform all the essential functions of this position. I agree to comply with Odyssey Charter Schools policies and all laws , rules, regulations, and standards of conduct relating to my position. As an employee, I understand my duty to report any suspected violations of the law or the laws or the standards to my immediate supervisor. As an employee, I will strive to uphold the mission and vision of Odyssey Charter Schools. All employees are to adhere to the values and ethical standards of the California Department of Education.
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.
Pay: $60,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
