What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Teacher position at ampersandtherapy?
Special Education Teacher | Tacoma, WA | 2026–2027 School Year
Ampersand Therapy is hiring Special Education Teachers for the 2026–2027 school year near Tacoma, Washington. We are a women- and therapist-founded company working to elevate the employment experience for school-based professionals. Join a supportive team and make a lasting impact in the lives of students with disabilities in a welcoming, local school district.
Job Highlights:
- Location: Tacoma, WA
- Position: Special Education Teacher (In-person)
- Schedule: Full Time, Monday–Friday
- School Year: 2026-2027
K-2 Resource, mild/moderate behaviors, CPI/Right Response preferred but not required/
Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
- Provide differentiated instruction in literacy, math, and other core subjects
- Manage classroom behavior and maintain a positive, inclusive learning environment
- Collaborate with general education staff, families, and related service providers
- Track and report progress toward student goals
- Use assistive technology and teaching tools to enhance learning
- Participate in IEP meetings and team planning sessions
Qualifications:
- Valid Washington State teaching certificate
- Special Education endorsement required
- Must have current fingerprints on file with OSPI or be willing to complete
- Must provide at least two supervisory references
- Experience in a school setting preferred
Benefits & Perks:
- Paid Sick Leave
- Healthcare Benefits*
- 401(k) with company matching*
- Reimbursement for licensure, CEUs, and professional development
- Mileage reimbursement at IRS rate
- W-2 employee status with liability insurance coverage
- Referral bonuses
- No non-compete clause
(*Healthcare benefits available for 0.8 FTE or higher after a short waiting period)
Why Work With Ampersand Therapy?Ampersand Therapy is a local, women- and therapist-operated company founded by providers who understand what it’s like to work in schools. Our mission is to build a community of therapists who feel supported, appreciated, and empowered to make a difference. We proudly serve school districts throughout Western Washington and across several other states. You’ll work alongside a small, passionate team of school-based specialists—some of whom are still active providers in schools themselves. We offer mentorship and support, especially for newer school-based specialists, and are deeply committed to equity, sustainability, and community involvement.
Our Values:
- Equity & Inclusion: We’re actively working to build a diverse, inclusive culture and support racial justice. We donate to organizations like The Conscious Kid and provide anti-racism resources to our team.
- Community Engagement: We volunteer with and support nonprofits such as Special Olympics, Project Canine, and The Moth — and empower our team to support the causes that matter most to them.
- Environmental Sustainability: We reduce paper use, seek low-waste therapy options, and are committed to maintaining a negative carbon footprint.
Apply today to join a team of passionate educators and make a difference as a Special Education Teacher in Tacoma, WA!