ESE Teacher - High School at RCSA Middle High – Jacksonville, Florida

Position Type: Salary / Exempt – 10-Month Position

Reports To: Principal or designated administrator

Position Summary

The Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Teacher / Coordinator provides instructional and compliance leadership for students served under ESE, Gifted, and Section 504 programs. This position ensures the effective implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Educational Plans (EPs), and 504 Accommodation Plans while promoting inclusive practices and academic excellence. Depending on school needs, the ESE Teacher may also serve in a coordinator capacity, providing guidance and oversight of compliance, case management, and instructional support to staff. The position collaborates closely with administrators, general education teachers, student services personnel, and parents to ensure equitable access to learning and adherence to federal, state, and charter school regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction and Student Support

• Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs, EPs, and 504 Plans in accordance with IDEA, Section 504, ADA, and Florida statutes.
• Deliver direct instruction and interventions using evidence-based strategies aligned with Florida Standards.
• Differentiate and adapt instruction to meet diverse learning needs across academic and behavioral domains.
• Conduct screenings, assessments, and progress monitoring to inform instruction and eligibility determinations.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with school, state, and federal guidelines.
• Support the development and implementation of Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and Positive Behavior Intervention Plans (PBIPs).
• Monitor student progress and participate in annual and interim reviews of educational plans.
• Foster students’ social, emotional, and academic growth through positive behavioral supports and inclusive learning environments.

Collaboration and Coordination

• Collaborate with general education teachers to design and implement accommodations, modifications, and enrichment opportunities.
• Coordinate services with outside agencies, therapists, and specialists to support student needs.
• Serve as liaison between the school, families, and district personnel for ESE, Gifted, and 504 compliance.
• Facilitate and participate in IEP, EP, and 504 meetings, ensuring family engagement and clear communication.
• Participate in problem-solving and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) processes to address student needs.
• Provide consultation, modeling, and professional development to staff regarding instructional strategies, classroom management, and ESE compliance.
• Supervise paraprofessionals and support personnel assigned to assist students with disabilities.

Compliance and Leadership

• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations regarding ESE, Gifted, and 504 programs.
• Prepare and submit reports, records, and documentation required for FTE and state reporting.
• Maintain confidentiality and secure student records in compliance with FERPA and district procedures.
• Stay current with educational research, best practices, and legal updates related to exceptional student education.
• Support a school culture that values inclusion, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Principal or his/her designee.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Valid Florida Educator Certificate in Exceptional Student Education (ESE certification required).
• Knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, ADA, and Florida ESE compliance requirements.
• Successful completion of Level 2 background screening as required by Florida law.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Exceptional Student Education, Gifted Education, or related field.
• Gifted Endorsement (preferred but not required).
• Three (3) years of successful teaching experience in ESE, Gifted, or related programs.
• Additional endorsements (e.g., Reading, ESOL, Autism Spectrum Disorders).
• Experience conducting evaluations and managing compliance documentation.
• Bilingual proficiency.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of child development, learning differences, and differentiated instruction.
• Skill in classroom management, data-driven instruction, and progress monitoring.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, administrators, and parents.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written.
• Effective organizational and time-management abilities.
• Proficiency in technology, including student information and IEP management systems.
• Commitment to equitable education and continuous professional growth.

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in classrooms and school settings.
• Regular standing, walking, bending, and occasional lifting up to 25 pounds.
• May require supervision in outdoor or extracurricular environments.
• Must be able to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Reporting Relationships

• Reports directly to the Principal or designated administrator.
• Collaborates with general education teachers, student services staff, and support personnel

RCSA is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or national origin.