Resource Specialist Teacher

Charter Elementary School, 1617

E. 7th Street, Los Angeles, California, United States of America •

Charter Middle School, 835 Stanford Avenue, Los Angeles, California, United States of America

Founded on Skid Row in 1980, Para Los Niños (PLN) partners with more than 10,000 children, youth, and families each year through integrated education, wellness supports and advocacy, addressing individual and systemic barriers to create pathways to success. In addition to operating early education centers, charter elementary and middle schools, youth workforce development sites and family services, PLN is the only children’s mental health provider in the Skid Row neighborhood.

PLN's community transformation work brings together community members, community-based organizations, city and county agencies, elected officials, and businesses to tackle issues that impact PLN families. Ninety-three percent of families served by PLN live in areas with the highest levels of food insecurity and homelessness in L.A. County.

Our charter schools’ program model is part of the California Community Schools Partnership Program, a transformative approach to (re) design schools by leveraging the collective power of schools, families, and communities to create an inclusive, safe learning environment where all scholars can thrive and reach their full potential. We build our culture based on community strengths and celebrate the unique contributions of each member.

Through our efforts, we aspire to empower the next generation with the tools they need to thrive emotionally, excel academically, contribute meaningfully to their community, and lead joyful lives.

At PLN Charter Elementary School & Middle School, we understand that education is a collective effort, and we actively engage families and communities in the learning process. By fostering strong partnerships through expanded learning and integrated support, we aim to create a seamless connection between the school, home, and broader community. This collaboration ensures that the integrated support system for every scholar is robust and comprehensive, addressing not only academic needs but also their social and emotional well‑being.

The special education teacher plans and conducts educational assessments for students referred as potential candidates for special education services and collaborates with general education teachers to differentiate instruction and pacing for students across multiple grade levels and content areas receiving Resource Specialist services in various settings, such as Learning Centers, general education classrooms, and Resource Specialist classrooms. They coordinate services with general education teachers, DIS providers, classified special education assistants, and Behavior Intervention service providers to ensure the appropriate delivery of student support.

As a key member of the IEP team, the teacher maintains records, evaluates student assessments, develops written IEPs, and conducts annual reviews in compliance with legal and procedural requirements. They regularly monitor student progress, conduct ongoing assessments for instructional planning, and refer students to the IEP team when additional support is needed.

Additionally, they consult with teachers, administrators, and PLN staff regarding student needs, scheduling, and program planning while also coordinating professional development and in‑service education for staff and parents on topics related to disabilities, the IEP process, and legal requirements. The teacher establishes clear behavior expectations, monitors student behavior throughout the school campus, and collects behavioral data to assess progress and needs.

PLN utilizes a co‑teaching model, placing both a general education teacher and a special education teacher in the classroom to provide an inclusive setting that ensures students with IEPs remain in the least restrictive environment. Paraprofessionals and other support staff may also assist in the classroom, and the teacher incorporates designated textbooks and instructional materials to support student…