Special Education Teacher

DAKAR ACADEMY | Special Education Department

Job Title: Special Education Teacher Reports to: Campus Director Level/Grade: K–9

Position Type: Part-time or Full-time

• May be split between both campuses 100% (50% West Campus + 50% South Campus), or
• Assigned to one campus only 50%

Hours:

• Minimum 20 hours/week for a 50% position
• Up to 40 hours/week if working across both campuses (100%)
• Additional after-school IEP meetings required

Summary

Dakar Academy is seeking an experienced Educational Specialist to serve as the Special Education Department Head for our West and South campuses. This leader will guide the SPED team in developing and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), supporting students with special needs, and collaborating closely with teachers, parents, and administrators to ensure each student receives the highest quality educational experience.

The Department Head will also oversee academic support services for students who are not meeting their learning potential and evaluate new student applications to determine whether special education services may be required.

Established in 1961 as Dakar’s first international Christian school, Dakar Academy seeks to develop well-rounded students who excel academically and grow holistically—emotionally, physically, and spiritually—while cultivating a Christian worldview.

Objectives of this Role

In addition to the responsibilities of an Education Specialist, the Special Education Department Head will:

• Oversee SPED schedules, referrals, interventions, and service delivery.
• Provide training and support for staff on special education practices.
• Notify the Business Office of new students added to the SPED caseload for billing purposes.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities

Along with the core duties of an Education Specialist, the Department Head is responsible for:

• Leading professional development sessions.
• Communicating with staff through a monthly departmental newsletter.
• Supervising Special Education Department staff.
• Training teachers who serve students receiving special education support.
• Managing SPED referrals from teachers and parents.
• Making student placement decisions in consultation with administration.
• Researching and coordinating outside testing services for evaluations.
• Reviewing and evaluating student applications to determine admission eligibility for students with special needs.

Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Strong understanding of best practices, legal guidelines, and ethical standards related to Special Education.
• A collaborative, proactive, and humble team-player mentality.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Creative, positive, and energetic approach to teaching and leadership.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Heart for student ministry and alignment with Dakar Academy’s mission.
• Willingness to support and abide by the decisions of the Board and administration.

Preferred Qualifications

• State Teacher Certification in Special Education.
• ACSI certification.
• Minimum of three years of experience teaching in a Special Education setting.