Special Education-Work Experience

Position Title: Special Education Work Experience Teacher
Reports To: Building Principal and Director of Special Education
Employment Type: Full-Time
Location: Alexandria Area High School

Position Summary

The Special Education Work Experience Teacher provides specialized instruction and support to high school students receiving special education services while helping them develop career awareness, employability skills, and workplace competencies. The teacher coordinates work-based learning experiences, collaborates with community employers, and supports students in connecting classroom learning to future career and postsecondary opportunities.

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide direct instruction in employability, workplace readiness, self-advocacy, communication, and career development skills.
• Develop and implement instructional plans aligned with students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and transition-related goals.
• Coordinate and supervise work-based learning experiences, including internships, job shadowing, school-based enterprises, and community work placements.
• Collaborate with students, families, special education staff, general education teachers, counselors, and community partners to support student success.
• Assist students in identifying career interests, strengths, and employment goals through career exploration activities and vocational assessments.
• Monitor student performance and progress in workplace settings and provide feedback, coaching, and support as needed.
• Maintain required documentation related to student progress, work experiences, and IEP compliance.
• Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to the development of appropriate transition and career readiness goals.
• Develop positive relationships with local businesses and community organizations to expand work experience opportunities for students.
• Support students in developing independent living, problem-solving, and decision-making skills applicable to employment and adult life.
• Ensure student safety and adherence to district policies while participating in community-based activities.
• Stay current with best practices in special education, career and technical education, and work-based learning.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field.
• Valid state teaching license with Special Education certification.
• Knowledge of special education laws, regulations, and IEP processes.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with students, families, school staff, and community employers.

Preferred

• Experience working with high school students receiving special education services.
• Experience with work-based learning, career readiness programming, or vocational education.
• Knowledge of transition planning and community employment resources.
• Experience building partnerships with local businesses and community organizations.

Desired Characteristics

• Student-centered and relationship-focused.
• Strong problem-solving and collaboration skills.
• Ability to motivate and support students with diverse learning needs.
• Commitment to preparing students for success in employment, postsecondary education, and community life.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• • Choose from 3 plan offerings
  • District contribution of $875 per month
  • Kavira Health
• Dental Insurance
• • District contribution of $40 per month
• 13 sick leave days per year
• 2 personal leave days per year
• $50,000 Group Term Life Insurance paid for by the District
• Long-Term Disability
• • Employees are required to enroll and pay for this benefit
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• • No cost to employees
• Voluntary Benefits (Employee-Paid):
• • Voluntary Life Insurance & Accidental Death and Dismemberment
  • Vision insurance
  • Pet insurance
  • Aflac offerings:
  • • Short-Term Disability (STD)
    • Critical Illness
    • Hospital Indemnity
    • Accident
    • Ben Extend
• 2% 403b match upon completion of probationary period