Elementary Special Education Teacher

Why Ideal?

Friendship Ideal's early learning approach for students in grades pre-K3 to kindergarten is guided by the Reggio Emilia philosophy that our children are extraordinarily capable and the world is their classroom. Through art, nature, literature, dramatic play, language, writing and music, our Reggio-inspired program nurtures students' innate curiosity, intellect, creativity and self-confidence. Filled with joyous exploration and guided by personalized pathways, students make discoveries, learn to solve problems and collaborate, while developing the building blocks that lead to lifelong learning. Named after the area in Italy where the concept was developed, Reggio Emilia is a highly- acclaimed early-learning model where children are encouraged to explore our ever-changing world.Led by a community of seasoned and supportive teachers, Ideal builds on its early learning program in the elementary (1-4) and middle grades (5-8) to develop knowledgeable, caring, resilient and ethical young scholars. Our rigorous academic curriculum builds strong foundations in mathematics, science, social studies, English and language arts along with exposure to foreign language study. Project-based learning that takes students out of the classroom to investigate real-world problems is a critical component of the academic day.One of our newest elementary and middle school campuses, Friendship Ideal's early learning classrooms are colored by all forms of patterns and expression that spark creativity and foster student inquiry. A big picture window leads our littlest learners to their outdoor classroom and garden, where they plant and play as they investigate and learn. In 2021, the Ideal campus expansion will include new classrooms, a performing arts theater, gymnasium, innovation lab and digital library.

Friendship Public Charter School operates a network of college-preparatory public charter schools, serving students from preschool through 12th grade. Our mission is to provide a world-class education that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for academic achievement and success beyond high school.

We are seeking dedicated professionals to join our team for the 2025/2026 school year. If you are committed to helping students achieve academic success and preparing them for college and career opportunities, we encourage you to apply.

For more information about our Teacher Evaluation Method, see the Danielson Framework for Teaching.

For more information about our schools please visit the following Social Media pages: YouTube, Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram & Twitter 

Please also see the available salary scales: FPCS Compensation

• Write and implement SMART goals for each student's Individualized Education Program (IEP)
• Create a classroom culture of high achievement and student ownership of their learning that helps foster students' intellectual, social and emotional development.
• Provide daily instruction that is tailored to each student's needs, including clear learning outcomes, well-designed lessons and high-quality assessments that align to Friendship's curriculum and standards.
• Incorporate into lessons creative, hands-on learning experiences that broaden students' exposure and interests, help foster student ingenuity and require application of knowledge and skills acquired through daily instruction.
• Manage and collaborate with paraprofessionals, and instructional assistants in the classroom to determine each team member's responsibilities and roles each day.
• Provide a classroom environment that is visually appealing, rich with resources aligned to curriculum and standards and honors student's achievement with current and accurate displays of exemplary student work.
• Collect, analyze, and report data to monitor progress on each student's goals.
• Communicate to students to understand their talents, interests and needs and to convey learning expectations and their progress toward meeting those expectations.
• Communicate regularly with families to identify students' talents, interests and needs and update parents regarding students' achievements and progress.
• Collaborate with school-based staff and throughout the Friendship network in staff meetings, regular analysis sessions and professional learning designed to enhance students' learning experience and increase student achievement.

• Experience in the role preferred
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university
• Two years of Special Education teaching experience and results demonstrating high student achievement and significant growth preferred
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• At least ONE of the following:
  • Successful completion of the content area ETS Praxis II Exam
  • Valid Special Education Teaching License
  • Degree in content area

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Education or Special Education
• Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and above
• Evidence of ongoing professional development and/or continuing education

Praxis Information:

• For upcoming Praxis test date please visit the website at
• For HQ requirements visit

FPCS's policy is to provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, status as a special disabled veteran, or any other protected criteria as established by federal, state, or local laws.  This policy applies to recruitment and hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, transfer, layoff, termination and all other terms and conditions of employment.  Employment decisions at FPCS are based solely upon relevant criteria, including an individual's capabilities, qualifications, training, experience and suitability.