Special Education Instructor

Location: Roanoke City Jail

Reports To: Executive Director of Special Education

Employment Type: Part Time – 15 hours per week

Position Summary:

The Special Education Instructor is responsible for identifying, instructing, and supporting incarcerated youth aged 16–22 who are eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This role ensures that students receive appropriate educational services while in custody and that all legal and procedural requirements are met in collaboration with local school divisions and the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).

Key Responsibilities:

Eligibility Determination:

• Interview detainees aged 16–22 to assess eligibility for special education and related services.
• Review educational and psychological records to support eligibility decisions.

IEP Development and Implementation:

• Develop and maintain Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and IEP addendums in compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Provide direct instruction aligned with IEP goals and the general curriculum.

Instructional Services:

• Deliver differentiated instruction tailored to students’ academic and behavioral needs.
• Utilize evidence-based strategies and accommodations to support student learning.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Coordinate with local school divisions to obtain and exchange educational records.
• Communicate regularly with jail staff, education personnel, and external stakeholders to ensure continuity of services.

Data Collection and Reporting:

• Collect and report quarterly progress and compliance data to the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).
• Maintain accurate and confidential student records.

Security and Compliance:

• Follow all security protocols and procedures as established by Western Virginia Regional Jail staff.
• Maintain a safe and respectful classroom environment within the detention facility.
• Participate in required trainings to be eligible to work in Jail environment.

Qualifications:

• Valid Virginia teaching license with an endorsement in Special Education (K–12).
• Experience working with at-risk youth or in correctional education settings preferred.
• Strong knowledge of IDEA, IEP development, and special education compliance.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a secure and structured environment.

Work Environment:

This position is based within a correctional facility and requires adherence to strict security protocols. The instructor will work in a classroom setting within the jail and interact with students, jail staff, and educational personnel on a daily basis.