What are the responsibilities and job description for the MS EDUCATION SPECIALIST position at OAKLAND SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS?
POSITION: Education Specialist
SCHOOL YEAR: 2025-2026
About Oakland School for the Arts
Oakland School for the Arts (OSA) is a vibrant creative community rooted in Oakland’s rich cultural landscape. Serving 800 students in grades 6–12, OSA blends rigorous academics with artistic excellence, celebrating the unique voices and talents of each student. Diverse experiences make our teams stronger and help us better serve our equally diverse student population. We encourage all candidates interested in this opportunity, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), as well as candidates from historically underrepresented communities, to apply. All voices and perspectives matter here.
Our Mission & Vision
At OSA, we believe that education and the arts are powerful tools for transformation. Our mission is to prepare graduates for college and career through innovative arts education, inspiring them to shape the world with their unique voices. Our vision is generations of creative thinkers, authentic leaders, and problem-solvers who bring the essential value of the arts to every community.
The Role
We’re seeking a part-time Education Specialist to support our Special Education program for the 2025–2026 school year. This is a certificated, 186-day position aligned with the academic calendar. The Education Specialist will provide instruction, assessment, and program planning for students with mild to moderate disabilities, including specific learning disabilities, speech and language impairments, mild to moderate intellectual disabilities, other health impairments, and emotional disturbances. In collaboration with general education teachers, this role will support students through in-class (push-in) and individualized (pull-out) services to ensure equitable access to the general curriculum and the high standards of OSA and the State of California. This position is central to OSA’s full-inclusion model, where students participate fully in both academic and arts classes.
What You’ll Do
- Collaborate with IEP team members to develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) using the Special Education Information System (SEIS).
- Conduct initial, triennial, and informal assessments to identify student needs.
- Implement and monitor students’ IEP goals and accommodations.
- Prepare materials and documentation for IEP meetings.
- Consult and collaborate with parents, staff, and service providers to ensure appropriate delivery of special education services.
- Partner with general education teachers to plan and implement instructional strategies that support students with IEPs.
- Support students in both general education and specialized academic instruction settings.
- Establish and articulate clear goals for student learning and success.
- Maintain compliance with special education records and documentation requirements.
- Adapt curriculum and instructional methods to support students' understanding of subject matter.
- Utilize assessment data to inform instruction and improve student outcomes.
- Provide timely feedback to students, parents, and teachers to coordinate services effectively.
- Apply behavior management techniques to foster a functional and supportive learning environment.
- Engage in professional development activities relevant to special education and school wide initiatives.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a collaborative and student-centered educator who is committed to equity, excellence, and supporting students with diverse learning needs.
Education, Credentials & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Valid California Education Specialist Credential (Mild/Moderate), or in the process of obtaining.
- At least two years of experience in an educational setting (preferred).
- Proficiency in SEIS (preferred).
- Experience with WIAT assessments and data collection (preferred).
Skills & Qualities
- Strong knowledge of special education laws, IEP development, and compliance requirements.
- Ability to modify curriculum and design instructional interventions aligned to student IEPs.
- Ability to manage a multi-grade caseload and maintain accurate student records.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills to work effectively with students, families, and colleagues across departments.
- Proficiency in academic report writing and professional communication.
- Familiarity with SEIS and WIAT assessments (preferred).
- Knowledge of diverse learning modalities and educational philosophies.
- Professional, dependable, and consistent in attendance.
Compensation & Benefits
The annual salary for a 1.00 FTE full-time role ranges from $66,512.60 to $82,674.41, based on OSA’s certificated salary scale and is commensurate with experience and credentials. This salary may be prorated according to FTE. OSA offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, commuter benefits, employee assistance program, and retirement plans with robust matching. This is a 186-day certificated position aligned with the academic calendar.
Commitment to Equity
OSA is committed to creating a workplace where all people feel valued, respected, and empowered. We embrace diversity in all its forms and encourage candidates from underrepresented communities to apply. We do not discriminate in any program, activity, or employment decision on the basis of age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, disability, medical information, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or political affiliation.
How to Apply
Submit your resume via EdJoin or LinkedIn, along with a brief cover letter sharing what excites you about this opportunity and what you’d bring to the OSA community.
Questions? Email hr@oakarts.org.
Salary : $66,513 - $82,674