Special Education Coordinator

Company Description

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Job Description

The Special Education Coordinator is passionate about supporting the students who are at-risk for academic underperformance due to emotional and/or physical challenges so that they can succeed in the school’s rigorous academic program. The Special Education Coordinator holds primary responsibility for providing academic, emotional, and physical services for students who require additional support to thrive within the school’s core academic program.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure that all students receive the educational services that they need to succeed;
• Identify incoming students’ special education needs as indicated by family questionnaire responses;
• Review the results of intake assessments of new students to identify special education needs;
• Schedule and providing pull-out services as needed;
• Schedule, coordinate, and chair team and pre-referral meetings;
• Conduct academic testing as part of the evaluation process;
• Coordinate and conducting classroom observations and testing (i.e. psychological) as needed;
• Ensure that all regular education teachers know and understand all classroom accommodations required by IEPs;
• Deliver one-on-one, small group, and whole class instruction as appropriate;
• Maintain student records regarding special education issues and preparing reports for regulatory agencies;
• Ensure compliance with all City, State, and Federal special education law and regulations;
• Contribute to the design of curriculum materials;
• Design and administer rigorous, standards-based assessments and using assessment data to refine curriculum and instruction;
• Help to create a culture of order, structure, humanity, and academic rigor in the classroom and school as a whole; and
• Collaborate with other teachers, other school staff, and administrators to ensure that all our students climb the mountain to high school and college.

Qualifications

• Drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of the classroom.
• Proven track-record of high achievement in the classroom.
• Mastery of and enthusiasm for academic subjects.
• Evidence of self-motivation and willingness to be a team player.
• Bachelor’s degree is required; Master’s degree is preferred.
• Minimum of two years teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred.
• Special Education teaching certification required
• Belief in and alignment with Uncommon’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable.

To be qualified to perform all duties as an administrator of special education, an administrator of special education must hold:

• A Massachusetts special education license with passing MTELs for the following:
  • Communication & Literacy
  • SEI Endorsement
  • Subject Specific
• Demonstrate the qualifications to perform all of the duties of the administrator to uphold state and federal laws.

Hold the Moderate Disabilities license.

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Compensation

Compensation for this role is between $57,000 to $89,000. Most candidates who meet job description requirements will receive an offer of $57,000 to $65,000. 

Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant professional development, education certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. 

Benefits

• Generous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and 10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer). 
• Extensive, best-in-class training and development  
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)
• Financial Planning
  • Pension through Mass. Teachers Retirement System  
  • 403(b) retirement savings program 
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits

*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE. 

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email recruitment@uncommonschools.org.