Head Special Education Teacher

GHA; Novato (CA); On-site; USD 51,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

GHA is seeking a dynamic Special Education Head Teacher for a long-term substitute position in Novato. The role supports a small class of eight students with mild ASD, with a focus on hands-on, student-centered learning.

Hours are 8:30am to 3:15pm, 33 hours per week, with no outside contract meetings. Start date is September 21, 2026, with a shadow period through October 1, and full responsibilities begin then.

Qualifications

• Credentialed teacher or equivalent in education/psychology.
• Strong background in therapeutic and trauma-informed practices.
• Experience with students with mild special needs.
• Excellent communication, organization, and collaboration skills.
• Positive, creative, and energetic outlook.

Responsibilities

• Lead academic instruction across all subject areas with differentiated, project-based approaches.
• Collaborate with aides, speech therapist, occupational therapist, and school psychologist.
• Implement online assessments and maintain academic data.
• Write and deliver report cards.
• Create and maintain a safe, inclusive, and structured classroom environment.
• Stay ahead of student behaviors with preventive strategies and therapeutic techniques.

Skills

Behavioral skills

Parent communication

Collaborative mindset

Hands-on teaching

Education

Credentialed teacher

Therapy license

Education/psychology degree

In-school credential in progress

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Special Ed: Head Teacher- Long term Substitute- NOW! (novato)

compensation: $5,016 monthly, insurance stipend, and 401K options

employment type: 33 hours a week, no outside contract meetings EVER!

hours: 8:30am-3:15pm

experience level: mid level

job title: Special Education Position

Location: Northern Marin County
Start Date: September 21, 2026- shadow classroom teacher until she goes on Maternity Leave October 1st.
Full Take Over: October 1st, 2026
Interviews: If the ad is up interviews are taking place

No after school meetings, No IEP's, teach your contract hours-that's all!

This is a GREAT community, all about the students and families, and collaborating. No paperwork, no after school meetings, it is all about the students during the day, and then you get your personal time by 3:15pm. Fridays we early release at 1pm, so it feels like a 3 day weekend.

Positions Overview:

Our small classroom of 8 students with mild ASD are seeking a dynamic head teacher to lead our special education students to success. This is an exciting opportunity for educators with a strong therapeutic background who thrive in a collaborative, hands-on, and student-centered environment. These are not roles for a worksheet-driven approach; we are looking for individuals who brings creativity, structure, and heart to the classroom. YOU MUST have behavioral skills, be warm and welcoming, and communicative with parents, staff, and truly enjoy making a difference even when it is hard.

Student Profile:

Our classes consists of 8 students with a range of mild/moderate needs; including autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and oppositional behavioral challenges. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to build strong rapport with students and maintain a proactive, supportive approach to classroom management. This is not a role for a punitive, authoritative type. Our students are very bright, with advanced cognition in many areas. Being flexible to adjust your approach with each kid is important.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead academic instruction across all subject areas using engaging, differentiated, and project-based approaches
• Collaborate closely with a full-time classroom aides, speech therapist, occupational therapist, and school psychologist
• Implement online assessments and maintain academic data
• Write and deliver report cards
• Create and maintain a safe, inclusive, and structured classroom environment
• Stay ahead of student behaviors with preventive strategies and therapeutic techniques

Qualifications:

• Credentialed teacher, therapy license, or education/psychology degree, or in school for credential/degree for an aide position
• Strong background in therapeutic and trauma-informed practices- not a punitive background
• Experience working with students with mild special needs and behavioral challenges
• Demonstrated success with hands-on learning and flexible teaching methods
• Excellent communication, organization, and collaboration skills
• Positive, creative, and energetic outlook