Position Type: Salary / Exempt – 10-Month Position

Reports To: Principal or designated administrator

*RCSA participates in the Florida Retirement System.

*Florida Certified Teacher required.

The Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Teacher provides instructional and compliance support for students served under Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This position is solely responsible for ESE services related to IEPs and does not include responsibilities for Gifted or Section 504 programs.

The ESE Teacher ensures the effective implementation of IEPs while promoting inclusive practices and academic achievement. This role collaborates closely with administrators, general education teachers, student services personnel, and families to support student success and ensure compliance with federal, state, and charter school regulations. The ESE Teacher upholds River City Science Academy (RCSA) core values of Respect, Compassion, Self-Confidence, and Accountability.

• Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs in accordance with IDEA and Florida statutes
• Deliver direct instruction and targeted interventions using evidence-based strategies aligned with Florida Standards
• Differentiate and adapt instruction to meet diverse academic and behavioral needs
• Conduct progress monitoring and use data to inform instruction and instructional adjustments
• 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 IEP reviews
• Foster students’ social, emotional, and academic growth through positive behavioral supports and inclusive practices

• Collaborate with general education teachers to implement accommodations and modifications aligned to student IEPs
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and needs
• Facilitate and participate in IEP meetings, ensuring clear communication and family engagement
• Participate in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) processes to address student needs
• Work collaboratively with support staff and service providers to ensure continuity of services

• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations regarding ESE services for students with IEPs
• Maintain confidentiality and secure student records in compliance with FERPA and school procedures
• Prepare and maintain documentation required for FTE and state reporting
• Stay current with best practices and legal requirements in exceptional student education
• Support a positive school culture aligned with RCSA’s core values of Respect, Compassion, Self-Confidence, and Accountability
• Participate in school-wide initiatives, professional development, and school events
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Principal or designee

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

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, Education, or related field.
• Reading 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