Self-Contained Special Education Teacher

Self-Contained Special Education Teacher

Empower Schools of Alabama / Empower Community School

Reports To:

Principal / Director of Special Education

The Self-Contained Special Education Teacher at Empower Schools of Alabama is responsible for providing highly structured, individualized instruction for students with significant learning and/or behavioral needs within a self-contained classroom setting. This role requires a deep belief that all students can learn, a commitment to equity and inclusion, and the ability to create a supportive, rigorous environment that fosters both academic and social-emotional growth.

The teacher designs and delivers targeted instruction aligned to IEP goals while supporting students in developing independence, life skills, and readiness for inclusion opportunities when appropriate. This position requires strong instructional planning, behavior management, and collaboration with families and support staff to ensure student success.

• Provide direct, individualized, and small-group instruction within a self-contained classroom aligned to student IEP goals
• Develop and implement structured, engaging, and standards-aligned daily lessons
• Differentiate instruction to meet a wide range of academic, cognitive, and behavioral needs
• Create a highly structured, predictable classroom environment that maximizes learning time
• Utilize visual supports, schedules, routines, and scaffolds to support student independence
• Implement research-based interventions aligned to literacy, numeracy, and functional skill development
• Implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) with fidelity
• Utilize restorative practices and proactive behavior strategies
• Support students in developing self-regulation, communication, and social skills
• Maintain a safe, structured, and inclusive learning environment
• Collaborate with counselors and support staff to address behavioral and emotional needs
• Develop, implement, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
• Ensure full compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and Alabama state regulations
• Lead IEP meetings and ensure meaningful family engagement
• Maintain accurate documentation of services, accommodations, and progress
• Provide regular progress updates to families and stakeholders
• Monitor and track student progress toward IEP goals and academic benchmarks
• Utilize assessment data (IEP goals, NWEA MAP, DIBELS, iReady, etc.) to adjust instruction
• Participate in MTSS/RTI processes and intervention planning
• Maintain compliance with all reporting and documentation requirements
• Partner with general education teachers to support inclusion opportunities when appropriate
• Collaborate with related service providers (speech, OT, counseling, etc.)
• Communicate consistently with families regarding student progress and needs
• Participate in House System activities, school events, and family engagement opportunities
• Build strong, trusting relationships with students grounded in high expectations and support
• Engage in ongoing professional development and coaching cycles
• Participate in IEP trainings, staff meetings, and data meetings
• Stay current on best practices in special education and self-contained instruction
• Uphold all Empower policies, procedures, and professional expectations

• Bachelor's Degree in Special Education (Master's preferred)
• Valid Alabama Teaching Certification in Special Education
• Experience working with students with significant academic and/or behavioral needs
• Strong knowledge of IDEA, IEP development, and compliance requirements
• Demonstrated ability to manage a structured classroom environment
• Strong organizational, communication, and collaboration skills
• Demonstrated belief that all students can learn and succeed

• Commitment to equity and inclusive education
• Strong differentiation and individualized instruction skills
• Expertise in behavior management and structured classroom systems
• Data-driven decision-making
• Ability to build strong relationships with students, families, and staff
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining compliance

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout…