Job Description:

The Special Education Teacher/Director serves as the sole special education professional for the school and is responsible for the instructional program, compliance, and administration of all special education services. This position provides direct instruction to students with disabilities while overseeing all special education processes, including IEP development and implementation, compliance with state and federal regulations, and coordination of services. The position may supervise paraprofessionals and collaborates closely with administrators, general education teachers, families, and related service providers.

Instruction & Student Services

• Provide direct instruction to students with disabilities in accordance with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

• Develop and implement lesson plans aligned with state standards and student IEP goals.

• Monitor student progress and adjust instruction to meet individual needs.

• Maintain a positive, structured, and supportive learning environment.

Special Education Administration & Compliance

• Serve as the Special Education Director for the site/district, ensuring compliance with IDEA, state regulations, and district policies.

• Manage all special education documentation, including IEPs, evaluations, reevaluations, progress reports, and compliance timelines.

• Schedule, facilitate, and lead IEP and eligibility meetings.

• Ensure IEPs are implemented with fidelity across instructional settings.

• Coordinate evaluations and related services with school staff and outside providers.

Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusive practices and accommodations.

• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress, services, and procedural safeguards.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for special education inquiries, concerns, and compliance matters.

• Work collaboratively with administration to address student needs, staffing, and program development.

Supervision & Program Support

• Supervise and provide guidance to paraprofessionals, if assigned.

• Assign duties, provide feedback, and ensure paraprofessionals support IEP implementation effectively.

• Assist in training staff on special education procedures, accommodations, and best practices as needed.

Additional Responsibilities

• Maintain confidentiality of student records and information.

• Participate in professional development related to special education instruction and compliance.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the administration to support student success and program needs.

Qualifications Required

• Valid State Special Education Teaching Certificate.

• Knowledge of IDEA, state special education regulations, and compliance requirements.

• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities independently and meet required deadlines.

Preferred

• Experience serving in a lead, coordinator, or director role in special education.

• Experience working as the sole special education provider in a school or district.

• Experience supervising paraprofessionals.

• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Working Conditions

• This position may require managing instructional, administrative, and compliance responsibilities concurrently.

• Regular collaboration with staff, families, and service providers is required.

Salome High School is a small, rural school located in western Arizona, serving a close-knit community across more than 3,400 square miles. We are approximately 60 miles west of the Greater Phoenix area and about 60 miles east of the Arizona–California border, offering a quiet, small-town lifestyle with access to larger communities when needed.

With an enrollment of approximately 120 students, Salome High School provides a personalized educational environment where staff know students and families well and can make a meaningful impact. Teaching in a small rural school allows educators the opportunity to teach to their passions, build strong relationships, and play an active role in shaping school culture.

Class sizes are relatively small, and as long as state standards are met, teachers have flexibility in what they teach and how they teach it. Staff benefit from a four-day school week and generous daily preparation time, supporting a healthy work-life balance.

Salome offers a slower pace of life, wide open spaces, and a strong sense of community pride. For educators seeking autonomy, collaboration, and the opportunity to truly make a difference, Salome High School provides a unique and rewarding professional experience.