Special Education RISE Teacher - IDEA Lopez Academy (26-27)

IDEA Public Schools is a renowned tuition-free public charter school network with a mission to ensure all children can attend college. Since its inception in 2000, IDEA has expanded from a modest 150-student school to a thriving multi-state network that serves over 80,000 students across Texas, Florida, and Ohio. The network is nationally recognized for academic excellence, appearing on The Washington Post and U.S. News & World Report's lists of top high schools. IDEA is deeply committed to maintaining its legacy of sending 100% of its graduates to college, underscoring a steadfast dedication to academic achievement and student success.

Joining IDEA positions educators into a dynamic and ambitious team that values growth, integrity, respect, and belonging. The culture emphasizes collaboration and high expectations, fostering an environment where educators are encouraged to pursue excellence in teaching and student outcomes.

The role in focus is that of an IDEA Special Education RISE teacher. The acronym RISE stands for Reaching Independence through Support and Education, reflecting the central mission of this position. These teachers work with students who present a wide spectrum of learning, cognitive, emotional, and physical disabilities. The expectations for these educators are set very high because the goal is to enable every student to reach their fullest academic and personal potential.

In this multifaceted role, the IDEA Special Education RISE teacher is responsible for instructing students across a wide range of subjects including Reading, Writing, Math, History, Adaptive Physical Education, and more. The student population may have intellectual, behavioral, or physical disabilities, which requires specialized instructional techniques and an adaptable teaching style. Beyond classroom instruction, these teachers provide vital resources and support to families, equipping them with education, training, and emotional support that are essential for planning long-term goals for their children.

The compensation package for this role is competitive and designed to reward both experience and additional certifications. The starting salary for teachers with no prior experience begins at $63,500, with opportunities to earn stipends ranging from $500 to $4,000 based on certifications, credentials, and leadership roles within the campus. Performance-based compensation is also part of the pay structure. Additionally, there is extra pay available for responsibilities such as after-school tutoring and Saturday school. Candidates must comply with Texas Education Code requirements, including submitting official service records to verify experience and years of service.

Beyond salary, IDEA provides a comprehensive benefits plan aimed at supporting employees holistically. This includes coverage for the majority of employee premiums for the base medical plan and significant subsidies for coverage of spouses, domestic partners, and children. Special benefits include paid family leave offering up to eight weeks for birth or adoption, tuition reimbursement of up to 50% per qualifying degree program with a cap of $5,250 annually, and employer-paid mental and behavioral health services, including counseling sessions and telephonic support. Additional benefits include dental and vision plans, disability and life insurance, parenting benefits, flexible spending accounts, generous vacation time, referral bonuses, professional development opportunities, and a 403(b) retirement plan. Relocation allowances may also be offered if applicable.

The ideal candidate brings a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year institution and possesses valid Texas state certification in Special Education, with the appropriate grade and subject endorsements or Texas Core Content Competency Worksheet. Experience in a Special Education classroom setting with students who have significant disabilities is strongly preferred. Knowledge and skills required include curriculum understanding, student behavior management, strong organizational and communication skills, adaptability, the ability to facilitate Admission, Review, and Dismissal meetings, and fostering effective family engagement. The role demands a results-oriented approach, with evidence of improving outcomes for students who are academically at risk.

Duties encompass adapting lessons to meet diverse needs, coordinating related services, developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), assessing and tracking student progress rigorously, collecting and analyzing data to guide instruction, maintaining open communication with families and colleagues, and preparing students for transitions between grades and post-graduation. Teachers also facilitate a consistent behavior management system aligned with campus-wide initiatives and contribute to a positive school culture. Technology is utilized as a tool for both education and communication to enhance student achievement and manage workload efficiently.

IDEA Public Schools offers a collaborative and supportive environment where special education teachers not only educate students but also serve as vital advocates and resources for families. This role requires dedication, compassion, and a commitment to IDEA’s mission of ensuring every student is college-ready. The position includes supervisory responsibilities over Special Education Co-Teachers or paraprofessionals within the RISE classroom. Teachers engage regularly in professional development, meetings, and are expected to spend upwards of 40 hours per week on campus, including additional duties as necessary.