Lead Special Education Teacher

The Lead Teacher for Special Education serves as a key instructional leader and support provider within the Education Services Department, ensuring equitable access to high-quality educational services for students with disabilities. This position is responsible for guiding and supporting special education programs through collaboration, compliance monitoring, professional development, and instructional coaching. The lead teacher works closely with site teams, families, and district leadership to promote inclusive practices, ensure adherence to federal and state regulations, and foster student success through individualized and data-driven approaches.

Program Oversight & Compliance

• Develop, implement, and monitor special education programs and services, ensuring complete adherence to federal laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
• Manage all aspects of implementing the Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), including following up with the school Psychologist with case files, compliance checks, and coordinating meetings with parents and staff.
• Assist the special education teachers with the day-to-day classroom needs and concerns.
• Serve as the site administrator for the special education summer program, monitoring curriculum and attendance.
• Plan programs, coordinate curricular resources, and evaluate the effectiveness of services for special education students.
• Conduct and interpret assessments to determine eligibility for special education services and monitor student progress.
• Provide coverage in the Special Education Classes in a teacher's absence.

Student Services & Guidance

• Supervise students' conduct and guidance, creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive school culture.
• Implement restorative practices and culturally responsive approaches to student discipline and support.
• Collaborate with families, general education teachers, and community agencies to address students' behavioral, academic, and social-emotional needs.

Leadership & Professional Development

• Serve as a resource and liaison for special education students, families, and staff on academic, attendance, and behavioral matters.
• Plan and lead professional development sessions for staff on topics such as differentiated instruction, inclusion, and special education methodologies.
• Collaborate with the school leadership team to develop and implement policies that align with our school's mission.

Community Engagement

• Represent the school in community partnerships and professional educational networks.
• Promote a school culture rooted in academic integrity, personal responsibility, and respect.

Education and Experience:

Any combination equivalent to: Advanced training with a minimum of five (5) years of related experience in the field of special education students with severe/non-severe needs. Specialized, in-depth knowledge of one or more areas of primary disabling conditions or interventions, experience in program management, classroom/teaching, and/or experience with categorical programs. Master's degree in education or behavior science.

Licenses, Certifications, and Testing Required:

• Master’s degree in Special Education or related field.
• Experience in special education teaching or program coordination.
• Valid California Teaching or Behavioral Science Credential
• Administrative Services Credential (Preliminary and Clear) preferred
• Fingerprint/criminal justice clearance/Tuberculosis clearance/CPR and First Aid
• Must possess or have the ability to obtain a valid California Driver’s License

Equal Opportunity and Indian Preference: The Morongo Band of Mission Indians strives to be an equal opportunity employer dedicated to the policy of nondiscrimination based on race, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, veteran status or any other non job-related factor. Among qualified applicants, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians will give preference to the qualified Native applicants.