Special Education Teacher

About The Bridge at ACES

Students at The Bridge at ACES often have difficulty finding success in traditional school settings. They benefit from a personalized learning environment that enables them to build strong, supportive connections with educators and peers. At The Bridge, students are empowered to create their own pathways toward educational, social, and career success while working toward a high school diploma.

Our teachers design meaningful educational opportunities that help students build knowledge in core academic areas, including science, math, reading, writing, and social studies. In addition, students participate in project-based learning, career readiness, life skills development, culinary arts, physical education, health and wellness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), vocational education, and community-based projects with goal-driven outcomes.

Students receive instruction and support in academics, community integration, and social-emotional learning, along with wraparound social work and community services to support successful transitions back into their communities. The Bridge at ACES also provides reintegration services for up to six months following a student’s transition to their local school district or graduation, with continued focus on academic progress and community support.

Position Overview

ACES is seeking a dynamic and compassionate Special Education Teacher committed to social justice and to making a positive impact in the lives of youth who have experienced significant challenges. This educator will play a key role in supporting students with diverse learning, behavioral, and social-emotional needs within a collaborative, student-centered environment.

The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of special education law and best practices, including IEP development, implementation, and progress monitoring. Experience with co-teaching or co-facilitation, collaboration across content areas, and evaluation processes is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized education programs (IEPs) in accordance with state and federal special education law
• Collaborate with general education and content-area teachers to create inclusive, rigorous, and engaging learning experiences for all students
• Provide tiered interventions and targeted support for students across a range of academic and behavioral needs
• Use data to inform instruction, monitor student progress, and adjust supports as needed
• Participate actively in team planning and Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)
• Foster a safe, supportive, and culturally responsive classroom environment that promotes student growth and resilience
• Partner with related service providers, social workers, administrators, and families to support student success

Why Join The Bridge at ACES?

The Bridge at ACES offers educators the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of students who benefit from a more individualized and relationship-driven approach to learning. Our team is deeply committed to student empowerment, community connection, and creating pathways to long-term success.

Prior experience working with high school students is desired. Connecticut teacher certification: Comprehensive Special Education (165), K-12, required. Will consider candidates who are currently enrolled in a Special Education Teacher preparation program and are eligible for a Durational Shortage Area Permit (DSAP).

Additional Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of special education law, compliance, and IEP processes
• Experience working with students with diverse academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and trauma-informed educational practices
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills