Company Description

Recognized among the nation’s top‑performing STEM schools, Friendship Aspire Academies turns potential into possibility for every student we serve. We are seeking bold, mission‑driven leaders who can translate vision into measurable results.

Rooted in the Friendship Education Foundation’s commitment to educational equity, our academies deliver a world‑class experience to historically underserved communities, an experience that sparks curiosity, drives high achievement, and shapes ethical, capable citizens ready to lead.

What sets us apart?

• Proven, high‑performance results. Consistently strong test scores and college‑readiness metrics place our campuses among the best‑in‑class for STEM education.
• Whole‑child focus. Evidence‑based behavior supports, comprehensive wellness initiatives, and enriching after‑school programs ensure students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
• Immersive STEM instruction. Through hands‑on science exploration, real‑world technology application, engineering design challenges, and rigorous mathematical problem‑solving, scholars learn to think critically, innovate boldly, and lead confidently in tomorrow’s tech‑driven economy.

If you’re ready to helm a school where unwavering standards meet uncompromising support and where every scholar is prepared to excel in advanced STEM pathways, join us at Friendship Aspire Academies. Together, we’ll keep setting the pace for top‑performing schools nationwide.

Job Description

Under the direction of the Building Principal and Director of Special Populations, the high school special education teacher instructs students with diverse disabilities, adapting the general education curriculum to meet individual needs and fostering independence. Key responsibilities include developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), tracking progress, implementing behavioral interventions, and preparing students for post-secondary life through transition planning.

Duties and Responsibilities

IEP Management

• Develops and implements annual Individualized Education Program (IEP) plans, including present levels of performance, special education needs, instructional goals and objectives, and required special education and related services.

Instruction

• Provides research-based specialized instruction aligned to the instructional goals and objectives in each student’s IEP.
• Employs various teaching techniques, methods, and principles of learning to enable students to meet IEP goals.
• Adapts and modifies general education curriculum and delivers individualized instruction using appropriate instructional resources.
• Creates a positive learning environment emphasizing individualized instruction.
• Employs classroom structure and consistency to promote student responsibility, cooperation, and mutual respect in accordance with district policies and procedures.
• Establishes and maintains student control and discipline in the classroom, on school premises, and during school activities.
• Provides consultation to classroom teachers regarding instructional modifications, adaptive equipment, behavior intervention strategies, and other instructional supports for students with disabilities.

Assessment

• Assesses student progress and evaluates academic performance and behavior.
• Uses assessment data to determine the need for additional reinforcement or adjustments to instructional strategies.

Collaboration

• Collaborates with general education teachers, parents, counselors, therapists, and other educational professionals to ensure cohesive service delivery.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for parents regarding student progress and services.
• Consults and collaborates with community service providers (e.g., social services, public health, medical providers) to support student needs.

Transition Planning

• Prepares students for post-secondary outcomes, including college, vocational training, independent living, and employment.
• Supports development of self-advocacy and life skills aligned to post-high school transition goals.
• Coordinates the delivery of special education services outlined in each student’s IEP.
• Schedules and facilitates team meetings and works cooperatively with team members to develop instructional goals and strategies.
• Complies with all state and federal rules and regulations related to special education.
• Completes all district and state reporting requirements.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Certification: Arkansas Special Education teaching license/certification.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Knowledge: Deep understanding of Individuals with Disabilities and legal compliance.
• Soft Skills: High levels of patience, compassion, communication, and organizational skills.
• Behavioral Skills: Experience with behavior management and implementing behavioral intervention plans.

Job Type: Full-time

License/Certification:

• Special Education Teacher Certification (Required)