Specialized Programs - Special Education Teacher

Specialized Programs - Special Education Teacher

WHO WE ARE

Heartwood Community School is a community-focused, tuition-free charter school serving Jasper, Beaufort, and Hampton Counties in South Carolina. We believe in educating the whole child—nurturing each student academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Honoring every child’s unique journey, we bridge home and school to foster a compassionate, empowering environment where students feel seen and valued.

Our mission goes beyond academics. We guide students to become resilient problem-solvers, compassionate community builders, globally minded citizens, emotionally intelligent leaders, and lifelong learners. Embracing mistakes as part of growth, we equip students to thrive in school and life—ready to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

THE ROLE

The Specialized Programs Special Education (SPED) Teacher provides high-quality instruction to students with significant disabilities who follow alternate or extended standards in a primarily self-contained classroom setting. This teacher delivers functional academics, life skills, adaptive behavior, communication skills, and social-emotional learning to help students develop independence in school, at home, and in the community.

The Specialized Programs SPED Teacher designs and implements individualized instruction aligned to Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals, uses multi-modal teaching strategies, integrates real-life experiences, and collaborates with related service providers: Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT), Speech/Language Pathologist (SLP). They lead and coach paraprofessionals to ensure consistency, safety, and student success throughout the day. They report to the school Dean of Student Supports.

All educators have a growth mindset and participate in rigorous professional development throughout the year, including Responsive Classroom training, school-wide focus professional development, team analysis of performance data, and other personalized opportunities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide direct instruction in functional academics, adaptive behavior, life skills, social-emotional development, and communication in a self-contained classroom.
• Adapt and modify curriculum to align with alternate/extended standards and student readiness levels.
• Implement daily living, vocational, and community-based skills to build independence.
• Collaborate with related service providers (listed above) to integrate IEP services into daily routines.
• Develop and manage IEPs for a caseload of up to 5 students; monitor progress, complete documentation, and facilitate meetings in accordance with state and district policy.
• Train, coach, and support paraprofessionals to ensure consistent and effective implementation of academic, behavioral, and life-skills instruction.
• Use data to inform instruction, determine appropriate Least Restrictive Environment, and plan IEP goals.
• Implement behavior support plans and promote positive behavior and communication strategies.
• Build strong relationships with students and families, fostering trust and engagement in the learning process.
• Create a structured, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment that supports safety, dignity, and growth.
• Advocate for student needs and communicate effectively with teachers, parents, administrators, and service providers.
• Commit to continuous personal and professional growth through reflection, feedback, and collaboration.

SKILLS AND CHARACTERISTICS

• Experience using SC EDplan statewide IEP system or a similar program.
• Commitment to the school’s mission, deep love of content, and an unwavering belief that all students can and will succeed.
• Strong instructional and classroom management skills.
• High level of personal organization and planning.
• Team player.
• Ability to inspire, motivate and engage children.

EDUCATION AND BACKGROUND

• Bachelor's degree required
• Active or in-process teaching certification in Special Education
• Successful experience teaching or working in underserved communities

COMPENSATION

The salary for this role is $80,000, with eligibility for a relocation package. To uphold our commitment to equitable and fair compensation, we offer a competitive salary and have a no-negotiation policy.

We are committed to building a best in class team that reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our students. As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability.

Additionally, HCS offers a comprehensive benefits package including and not limited to:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Life Insurance and Disability
• Employee + Family Wellness
• Tax Favored Spending Accounts (FSA/HSA)
• Retirement Plans