Special Education Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Lead Teacher, Special Education (2026-2027 SY)

K-8 Campus

DeKalb Preparatory Academy | Decatur, GA

POSITION SUMMARY

DeKalb Preparatory Academy is seeking a Lead Teacher, Special Education (LTSE) to provide instructional leadership, coaching, and compliance support for teachers serving students with disabilities. The LTSE ensures high-quality instruction, strong IEP practices, and aligned supports across the school.
POSITION DETAILS

Position Title: Lead Teacher, Special Education (LTSE)

Reports To: Principal K-8

FLSA Status: Exempt

Salary Schedule: Commensurate with Experience

Work Days: 11 Month Employee
School Level: K-8

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

1. Instructional Coaching — Support special education and general education teachers with planning, SDI, accommodations, and effective instructional practices.
2. Data-Driven Support — Analyze student data to identify trends and guide instructional decisions.
3. Modeling Instruction — Demonstrate effective lessons across co-taught, resource, and self-contained settings.
4. Collaborative Planning — Ensure SPED teachers participate in collaborative planning and MTSS implementation.
5. Professional Learning — Lead school-wide and small-group PD on instructional strategies and compliance.
6. IEP & Compliance Leadership — Chair IEP meetings, support eligibility processes, and maintain required documentation.
7. Family & Staff Collaboration — Partner with families, teachers, and leaders to support student success.
8. Schoolwide Support — Assist with scheduling, behavior supports, and access to the general curriculum.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

1. Professional Learning Expertise — Knowledge of effective PD models that improve student achievement.
2. Curriculum & Instruction — Strong understanding of literacy, math, and writing best practices; curriculum guidelines; and state/district requirements.
3. Assessment & Compliance — Knowledge of assessment systems, measurement tools, and special education laws/regulations.
4. Behavior & Intervention — Skilled in behavior management, differentiated instruction, and intervention planning.
5. Instructional Programming — Strong organizational, coaching, and instructional design skills.
6. Assessment Interpretation — Ability to interpret a wide range of assessments related to intellectual, emotional, and physical disabilities.
7. Communication & Collaboration — Effective oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
8. Technology & Task Management – Ability to use relevant computer applications and manage multiple tasks effectively.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Master's degree in special education, Educational Leadership, or related field.
2. Minimum of 5 years of special education teaching experience.
3. Valid Georgia PSC certification (SRL-5, SRNL-5, PL-6 or higher).
4. Strong communication, coaching, collaboration, and organizational skills.