Job Description:

ASA’s mission is to inspire creative thinkers and leaders through providing an innovative concentration in college preparation informed by the performing arts.

As a member of ASA’s Exceptional Student Services (ESS) Department, this special education teacher serves as the case manager for students in multiple grade levels; ASA serves students in 5th-12th grades. The ESS teachers collaborate with the grade level teaching teams and families to meet needs and support students’ growth. As a case manager, this teacher ensures appropriate and effective services and supports are in place for each student on their caseload. This teacher assists in the educational and social development of students, writes and implements IEPs, and monitors progress. This position collaborates with the educators in the ESS Department as well as classroom teachers to provide a supportive and integrated learning experience.

ASA teachers provide an academic curriculum that is rigorous, relevant, and aligned with ASA’s mission and core values. Curriculum development and implementation reflects Arizona State Standards layered with ASA’s innovative college prep focus that fosters intellectual curiosity, emphasizes active engagement, project-based learning, inquiry-based discussions, research, advanced written and oral skills, and collaboration.

ASA is devoted to fostering an inclusive environment where the enjoyment and benefits of a college preparatory and performing arts education are accessible to the entire community.

This position reports to the ESS Director and works closely with the other members of the ESS Department.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Develop and Implement IEPs

• Collaborate with parents, administrators, and other professionals to develop, review, and modify Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities.

• Set specific, measurable goals that cater to each student’s unique learning needs and track their progress.

Specialized Instruction

• Deliver direct, individualized specially designed instruction to students with disabilities in small group or one-on-one settings, focusing on academic skills, social skills, and life skills.

• Modify and adapt general education curricula to meet the diverse needs of students.

Behavior Management

• Develop and implement behavior management plans, teaching students appropriate social behaviors, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution strategies.

• Foster a positive and supportive classroom environment that encourages student engagement and participation.

Collaborative Support

• Work closely with general education teachers, support staff, and specialists (e.g., speech, occupational therapy) to ensure the success of students with disabilities in both special education and general education settings.

• Participate in regular team meetings to discuss student progress, needs, and goals.

Progress Monitoring and Reporting

• Regularly assess and document student progress toward IEP goals and objectives through formal and informal assessments.

• Provide timely and thorough reports to parents, school administrators, and other stakeholders regarding student performance and development.

Parent Communication

• Establish and maintain open communication with parents or guardians, providing regular updates on student progress, challenges, and strategies for success at home.

Classroom Environment Management

• Create and maintain an inclusive, organized, and safe classroom environment that accommodates the diverse needs of students.

• Modify the physical space and instructional materials as needed to ensure accessibility and comfort for all students.

Professional Development

• Stay current with best practices, teaching strategies, and legal requirements in special education.

• Participate in ongoing professional development opportunities and attend relevant training sessions.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree; Master’s in Special Education, preferred 

• Certified Special Education Teacher 

• Valid Arizona Department of Public Safety Identity Verified Prints (IVP) card

• Familiarity with e-IEP Pro, preferred

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Personal Characteristics

• A lifelong learner interested in acquiring new skills and knowledge.

• Passionate about students, content area, and teaching.

• Concerned about holistic development of the individual.

• Flexible, creative, and has the capacity to innovate. 

• Excellent organizational,  oral communication, and written communication skills.

• Experience with or a commitment to learn:  

  • Socratic methodology

  • Inquiry-based discussion

  • Constructivist teaching strategies

  • Project-based learning

  • Authentic assessment and rubrics

Salary and Benefits

• Compensation commensurate with experience.

• Full time position with benefits.

• Member of ASRS.

Interested candidates should submit the following via e-mail to employment@goasa.org:

• Cover letter

• Resume

• Three letters of reference

• ASA Application for Employment found on the website.

Please note, Arizona School for the Arts is unable to sponsor visa applications for candidates for employment.

ASA is an equal opportunity employer. Discrimination against an otherwise qualified individual with a disability or any individual by reason of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, or veteran status is prohibited.  Efforts will be made in recruitment and employment to ensure equal opportunity in employment for all qualified persons.