Special Education Co-Teacher 2025-26 at Exploration Elementary Charter School for Science & Tech – Rochester, New York

Position Summary

Under the general supervision of the Director of Academics, the Special Education Co-Teacher works to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students' specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment.

Essential Job Responsibilities

Provide direct support to students in a classroom by delivering instruction and ensuring learning through a variety of co-teaching models and strategies. Ensure appropriate accommodations to the curriculum, lessons and learning environment. Instruction may be provided within the regular classroom setting, resource setting, and/or small classroom setting. Design engaging classroom activities and differentiated lessons so that all students may access the curriculum and benefit from the educational experience. Formally and informally assess the student learning (rather than relying solely on standardized curriculum) to create a comprehensive learning program. Set high expectations that are suitable for the students. Assessments may be differentiated based on each individual student plan. Work collaboratively with Lead Co-Teacher, grade-level teams and other staff, especially the Student Support Team, to plan, share student work and ensure that instruction is aligned with identified curriculum and standards. Build a partnership with families, encouraging their active participation in students learning. Collaborate with colleagues (coaching cycles, grade level and school-wide meetings, professional development days, etc.) to continuously improve personal practice, classroom instruction, assessment, and student achievement, as well as the overall goals and mission of the school. Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning. Participates in the Student Support Team as needed and assists in developing Individual Educational Plans (IEP) for students. Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEPs and behavior management plans as identified in the students IEP Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed. Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing students as required by school procedures and applicable laws. Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents. Actively participate in staff meetings. Attend quarterly family nights as scheduled. Regularly use Google Workspace for calendaring, email communication, and accessing important documents.

Requirements Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Excellent communication and collaboration skills. Commitment to educational equity and supporting diverse learners. Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students. Ability to use computer network systems and software applications as needed. Ability to organize and coordinate work. Ability to accurately collect data Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents/guardians. Ability to engage in self-evaluation and self-reflection regarding performance and professional growth. Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Certification Current valid New York State Teaching Certificate at the elementary level and Special Education

Education Bachelors or Masters Degree in a teaching related field

Experience Prior experience with high need students in an urban setting prioritized Prior experience with project/inquiry-based instruction preferred

The hiring process for this position will require you to perform a fingerprinted background check through the New York State TEACH System. Any written or verbal offer is contingent on satisfactory results, as determined by NYSED and HR/Operations Manager. Exploration does not discriminate based on race, color, creed, age, marital status, sex, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran status, or disability in its hiring, educational programs, and school events/activities. Exploration promotes diversity and provides equal opportunity for qualified applicants. Exploration can and will provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities under the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the New York Human Rights Law, or similar applicable law.