Special Education Teacher - FY27 Academic year

Special Education Teacher

About Orton Academy

Orton Academy is a groundbreaking 2-8 charter school authorized by D11 in Colorado Springs, CO. We are a regional leader in dyslexia education, utilizing research-based instruction to create personalized learning experiences that enable students to overcome learning challenges. Our curriculum is rooted in the science of reading and structured literacy, ensuring that students receive the targeted support they need to succeed.

At Orton Academy, we don't just teach-we empower. Our students develop the skills, confidence, and strategies to navigate their academic journeys and beyond. Through individualized instruction, small class sizes, and a supportive learning environment, we are redefining what's possible for students with dyslexia.

Learn more about our unique approach at https://ortonk8.org

Philosophy and Vision Alignment

Our Why:

• We exist to ensure that students with dyslexia have access to high-quality, research-based instruction tailored to their unique learning needs.
• We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to develop confidence in their abilities and achieve their full potential.
• We are committed to instilling hope, igniting purpose, and empowering students to succeed academically and personally.

Our How:

• By implementing evidence-based instructional methods that prioritize the science of reading.
• By fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and student-centered learning environment.
• By equipping students with self-advocacy skills and strategies that empower them for lifelong success.

Our What:

• We are a community of educators, students, and families committed to breaking down learning barriers and championing student success.
• We provide specialized instruction tailored to the needs of students with dyslexia, ensuring they develop essential literacy and academic skills.
• We ensure that every graduate leaves Orton Academy with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to excel in their future pursuits.

Position Summary

The Special Education Teacher is responsible for supporting students with diverse learning needs through the implementation of individualized instruction, accommodations, and interventions aligned with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This role requires strong collaboration within a team of special education professionals and general education teachers to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations while meeting the academic and social-emotional needs of students.

At our school, which specializes in supporting students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences, the Special Education Teacher plays a critical role in providing structured literacy support, advocating for students, and fostering a cohesive learning culture where all staff work collaboratively to support student growth and success.

Essential Responsibilities

Instruction & Student Support

• Provide specialized instruction and academic support for students with IEPs.
• Implement evidence-based strategies and structured literacy approaches appropriate for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences.
• Maintain fidelity to structured literacy instructional practices and interventions to ensure consistency in dyslexia-informed instruction across the school.
• Support students in accessing the general education curriculum through accommodations, modifications, and targeted interventions.
• Monitor students' progress and adjust instruction based on data and individual learning needs.

IEP Case Management

• Serve as a case manager for assigned students with IEPs.
• Develop, review, and update IEPs in compliance with federal and state guidelines.
• Coordinate and lead IEP meetings with families, teachers, and related service providers.
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure timelines for evaluations, meetings, and reports are met.
• Monitor the implementation of accommodations and services across classrooms.
• Demonstrate strong organization and accountability in managing a high-volume caseload of IEPs while maintaining compliance with all legal timelines and documentation requirements.

Collaboration & School Culture

• Work collaboratively with a team of special education teachers to manage a high volume of IEP plans.
• Partner with general education teachers to ensure effective accommodation and instructional support.
• Contribute to and support a cohesive learning culture focused on student success, shared responsibility, and consistent instructional practices across classrooms.
• Embrace a philosophy of shared ownership for all learners, recognizing that the success of every student is a collective responsibility across the entire school community.
• Participate actively in team meetings, problem-solving discussions, and professional learning communities.

Compliance & Communication

• Ensure all services and documentation meet legal and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain clear communication with families regarding student progress, services, and supports.
• Support teachers in understanding and implementing accommodation and best practices for students with dyslexia.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Special Education or related field.
• Valid state Special Education teaching license.
• Knowledge of dyslexia and language-based learning differences strongly preferred.
• Experience managing IEPs.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills, particularly in high-volume caseload environments.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team-based model.

Key Skills

• Knowledge of special education law and compliance
• Experience with structured literacy or dyslexia-informed instruction
• Effective communication and collaboration skills
• Data-driven decision making
• Organization and time management
• Student advocacy

Professional Expectations

• Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning related to dyslexia, structured literacy, and best practices in special education.
• Maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical standards in all interactions with students, families, and staff.
• Contribute positively to a collaborative and solutions-oriented team environment.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Work is performed in a classroom setting.
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds may be required.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Salary, Benefits, and Terms

• Salary: $50,000-$65,192.73 annually
  • Paid time off.
  • Employee health, dental, and vision with employer-paid options
  • 401(K) with a 100% match up to 5% of compensation; please note: this is not a PERA-eligible position
• Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time, Exempt.
• Location: 3115 Larkspur Drive, Colorado Springs
• Work year and hours shall be those established by Orton Academy.
• Performance evaluations will be conducted in accordance with school policy.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Orton Academy seeks to comply with applicable laws prohibiting discrimination in employment on the basis of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, or disability.

The Board of Directors at Orton Academy has contracted with Minga Education Group (MEG) to provide employment services for all staff who work at Orton Academy. Through this partnership, MEG provides OA with employment services, a personnel system for human resources, benefits, payroll services, as well as access to a 401(k) plan. For naming purposes, Minga Education Group is the employer.

Mandatory Background Checks: In alignment with our commitment to student safety, all candidates are required to undergo a comprehensive background check, which includes reviewing criminal records and will require fingerprinting. Please be aware that certain findings in the background check may disqualify a candidate from employment in a school setting. These may include, but are not limited to:

• Convictions for violent crimes, such as assault or domestic violence.


• Convictions for offenses against children, including abuse or endangerment.


• Drug-related offenses, particularly those involving the distribution or trafficking of controlled substances.


• Certain felony convictions, depending on their nature and recency.


• History of certain misdemeanors that may raise concerns about a candidate's suitability for working in an educational environment. Submission of this application signifies your consent to this process and understanding of these criteria.

Verification of Qualifications: For roles that demand specific qualifications or certifications (such as teaching credentials), you will be asked to provide verifiable proof. We also conduct reference checks to validate your professional history and qualifications

Adherence to Colorado Education Laws: Our recruitment process strictly follows the guidelines and regulations set forth by the Colorado Department of Education. We expect all applicants to be familiar with and adhere to these standards.

This employer utilizes E-Verify