2026-2027 Special Education Teacher Position (K-5)

Special Education Teacher

ABOUT US

ZEST Preparatory Academy Charter School is a K-5 charter school in Douglasville, GA (Metro Atlanta area). Our mission is to provide an academically rigorous, supportive, and joyful learning environment to develop the leader inside every student for lifelong educational achievement and impactful community service.

We will accomplish our mission through an academically rigorous environment where students will master the core subjects, develop advanced academic skills, hone their leadership skills in and out of school, and demonstrate community service. Our staff hold an unwavering belief that all students deserve an excellent education and it’s our collective responsibility to prepare students to take a seat at the table, so they can emerge as the next generation of leaders. We also believe that it’s never too early to prepare students for college and career, so they have the opportunity to live choice filled lives.

OUR APPROACH

Our college preparatory model includes three key components beginning with an intentional focus on language and literacy development to increase critical thinking and reading proficiencies for all students. Second, a discovery-based learning approach where teachers encourage our students to take ownership of their learning by discovering new ideas and solutions to real world challenges. The third component, leadership, teaches essential habits of leadership so students can apply real world skills to their overall growth and development. ZEST Prep intentionally teaches leadership skills beginning in kindergarten.

JOB TITLE: Teacher- Special Education

CLASSIFICATION: Instructional

REPORTS TO: Instructional Leader

POSITION SUMMARY

Serving in a founding role provides the opportunity to build something new and set the foundation for success. An integral part of our success will be the daily implementation of highly effective teaching and learning that allows students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

ZEST Preparatory Academy has a deep commitment to academic excellence and student development to ensure students master or exceed grade level content expectations. Our focus on literacy and leadership empowers students with the necessary skills to take advantage of opportunities that foster academic, cultural, and personal growth. At ZEST Prep, you'll work in a collaborative, safe, and joyful learning environment that focuses on doing what's best for kids.

JOB EXPECTATIONS

The Special Education Teacher is responsible for supporting all aspects of learning for special education students in ZEST Preparatory Academy classrooms.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated belief that all students can achieve high levels of academic achievement
• Demonstrated belief in the mission and vision of ZEST Preparatory Academy
• Knowledge of pedagogical practices including organization, planning, and effective instruction
• Ability to be flexible and adapt as needed between in-person and virtual learning environments
• Ability to work under pressure and meet outcomes
• Demonstrate the ability to embrace differentiated instructional approaches to learning
• Find and build opportunities for interdisciplinary connections across various subject levels
• Build and maintain relationships with students

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Lead instruction for Special Education students to ensure their academic and social-emotional needs are met.
• Provide critical guidance to classroom teachers to ensure that all staff are complying with and meeting the needs of Special Education students
• Review weekly lesson plans and provide modifications, as necessary
• Teach small groups in guided reading & math, using a research-based curriculum
• Monitor referrals for scholars with special needs
• Implement and adjust behavior interventions for scholars
• Implement processes to monitor progress of exceptional students
• Compile data for meetings, updates, and annual reports
• Supports all teachers and paraprofessionals to implement interventions
• Participates in IEP, eligibility and re-eligibility meetings
• Maintains and updates knowledge and skills required for success in the position by participating in professional development activities as needed or as assigned.

• Collaborates with appropriate district administrators and staff to ensure the necessary program supports and resources are in place for all students with an Individual Educational Plan

Perform other duties as assigned by leadership team

Ancillary Duties :

Include, but are not limited to:

• Demonstrate positive support for the Board, administrative team, school staff, and the community
• Attend after school activities
• Assist with student arrival and dismissal

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Education:

• A Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field from an accredited college or university; Master’s degree preferred
• Certification or Licensure: Georgia SRT4-Certification in Special Education (Required)
• Three years experience as an educator. Charter school experience desirable.

Experience:

Knowledge of Georgia Standards of Excellence

Current authorization to work in the United States

Clear Criminal Background Check

Knowledge and Competencies:

• Professional demeanor, strong work ethic, and excellent organizational skills

• Strong communication skills
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of people in a multi-generational workplace

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience. Salary range based upon the ZEST Preparatory Academy salary scale.
• A comprehensive benefits package is offered to full-time employees.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

ZEST Preparatory Academy is actively seeking to build a diverse and experienced team of leaders. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, handicap, age, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. We are an equal opportunity employer.