--- title: 'Special Education Specialist at KIPP SoCal Public Schools' canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/special-education-specialist-kipp-socal-public-schools-los-angeles-86qted51k2hz' type: 'job' last_seen: '2026-09-16' --- # Special Education Specialist at KIPP SoCal Public Schools - **Company:** KIPP SoCal Public Schools - **Location:** Los Angeles, CA - **Employment:** full-time - **Work type:** onsite - **Posted:** 2026-06-01 - **Last confirmed live:** 2026-09-16 - **Apply:** https://jobs.lever.co/kippsocal/6c9fa894-2468-4c56-a61a-40fe03d61bde ## Job description ## Who We Are KIPP SoCal Public Schools is a nonprofit organization that operates 20 tuition-free, open-enrollment charter public schools, within 17 Local Education Agencies (LEA), educating more than 10,000 students and supporting 8,300 alumni to and through college and beyond. Our award winning schools are part of the national KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) network, dedicated to meeting the needs of all learners and providing the social, emotional and academic support for success in high school, college, and life. Mission Together with families and communities, we create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose—college, career and beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and create a more just world. ## What We Do At KIPP SoCal we build trusting relationships that are strengthened by high expectations and collaboration alongside laughter and joy. We set ambitious goals and hold each other accountable for students achieving their greatest potential. We work together with each other and in partnership with families and communities in the active pursuit of a more equitable world. We do the right thing, even when it's not always comfortable standing up and speaking out against anti-blackness, racism, oppression, and injustice. We persevere through obstacles and treat failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. Job Overview The Special Education Specialist provides direct, school-facing support to ensure strong implementation of special education programming, instructional practices, and compliance systems across a portfolio of schools. This role works closely with the Associate Director of Special Education to support schools through coaching, problem-solving, implementation support, and day-to-day follow-through. Please note: This is not a teaching position. The Specialist succeeds when schools experience responsive, consistent support that strengthens execution, improves coordination, and helps ensure students with disabilities receive high-quality, aligned services and instruction. You Should Apply If You are a highly organized and student-centered educator or support professional who enjoys working closely with schools to strengthen implementation, solve problems, and support teachers and leaders in real time. You are responsive, collaborative, and comfortable balancing compliance, instructional support, and day-to-day operational follow-through. You thrive in school environments, build strong relationships quickly, and are energized by helping turn systems and expectations into strong day-to-day practice for students with disabilities. ## Key Responsibilities School-Based Support & Coaching - Provide direct support to school-based SPED Team Chairs, Resource & Inclusion Teachers, SDP teachers, and school leaders across a portfolio of schools - Support implementation of instructional practices, IEP systems, accommodations, and service delivery expectations - Assist schools in addressing day-to-day operational and student support challenges - Maintain consistent presence in schools to build relationships and support implementation quality Instruction & Program Implementation - Support schools in implementing inclusion-focused instructional models and aligned service delivery practices - Reinforce organizational expectations around IEP quality, instructional alignment, and student support coordination - Assist with rollout of SPED tools, resources, systems, and initiatives across schools - Support onboarding and training efforts for school-based SPED staff Compliance & Monitoring - Support monitoring of compliance timelines, documentation, service delivery, and implementation expectations - Assist schools in maintaining organized and compliant SPED systems - Identify implementation concerns and escalate issues to the Associate Director as needed - Support follow-up and action planning connected to identified compliance or instructional concerns Cross-Functional Coordination & Problem Solving - Partner with portfolio and regional team members to ensure coordinated support across schools - Support communication and follow-through between schools and the regional SPED team - Assist with data collection, progress monitoring, and implementation tracking connected to portfolio priorities - Contribute to ongoing problem solving and continuous improvement efforts across the portfolio Desired Outcomes and Role Specific Competencies - Schools within the portfolio experience responsive, coordinated, and solutions-oriented SPED partnership, as evidenced by timely follow-through, clear communication, aligned implementation support, and positive feedback from school leaders and SPED staff regarding responsiveness and collaboration. - IEP compliance, service delivery, and SPED implementation expectations are consistently maintained across assigned schools through organized systems, timely monitoring of compliance requirements, and proactive identification, escalation, and resolution of implementation concerns. - Resource & Inclusion Teachers and SPED Team Chairs demonstrate increasing effectiveness in implementing instructional accommodations, aligned student supports, inclusion-focused practices, and progress monitoring systems that support student access and learning and achievement of individualized IEP goals. - Portfolio implementation is coordinated, organized, and operationally strong, as evidenced by consistent tracking and follow-through of implementation priorities, accurate maintenance of data and reporting systems, and strong coordination between schools, portfolio staff, and central support teams. - Strong relationship-building and coaching skills with ability to support teachers and school-based staff - Understanding of special education instructional practices, IEP implementation, and compliance systems Ability to balance responsiveness, organization, and follow-through across multiple schools and priorities - Strong problem-solving skills and ability to proactively identify and address implementation challenges - Ability to work collaboratively across school, portfolio, and regional teams to support coherent implementation ## Qualifications - Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher learning is required; Master’s degree with emphasis in special education highly preferred - Valid California credential for Preliminary or Clear Education Specialist (Mild/Moderate with Autism Authorization, Moderate/Severe, Mild to Moderate Support Needs or Extensive Support Needs) credential - Minimum of 4 years of highly effective teaching and case management experience demonstrating a strong track record of student performance gains for with students with special needs - Leadership and coaching experience required (e.g. providing instructional coaching, hiring, and directly managing and evaluating adults) - Knowledge of LAUSD special education policy and Welligent preferred ## Compensation - KIPP SoCal Public Schools offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience in a similar position. The salary range for this position is $81,576 to $122,364. New hires are typically brought into the organization at a salary between the range minimum and the salary range midpoint of $101,970 depending on qualifications, internal equity, and the budget allocated for this role. - 100% of healthcare premium costs covered by employer, dependents added at 50% of the cost - Employer-paid life insurance - 401(k) plan with up to 6% match by KIPP SoCal - Voluntary Benefits (Pet Insurance, Supplemental Life, Accident, Short Term Disability, etc.) - Generous time off program includes 22 holidays, sick leave and vacation - Other great benefits (Flexible spending account, EAP, etc.) KIPP SoCal Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation/gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. KIPP SoCal strives to ensure that our careers website is accessible to all, including individuals with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, please contact us. You can find our contact information on our website, http://www.kippsocal.org/. Information will be sent to a talent acquisition representative who will provide assistance to ensure appropriate consideration in the hiring process. By submitting this application, I certify that all information I have provided — in this application and in any related materials, including my resume, cover letter, and interview responses — is true, complete, and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I understand that KIPP SoCal Public Schools relies on this information in making hiring decisions. I acknowledge that any misrepresentation, falsification, or material omission may result in rescission of an offer of employment or, if I have already been hired, termination of employment, regardless of when the inaccuracy is discovered. ## About KIPP SoCal Public Schools ## Company Overview - **One-liner**: KIPP SoCal Public Schools operates a network of 24 tuition-free, open-enrollment charter public schools across Southern California, preparing students from underserved communities for college, career, and life. - **Entity Type**: Private Nonprofit - **Headquarters**: Los Angeles, California, United States - **Founded**: 2003 - **Founders**: Not publicly available (the network is part of the national KIPP — Knowledge Is Power Program — foundation) ## Core Business - Primary industry: K-12 Education (Charter Public Schools) - Target customers: Students in grades K-12 and their families, primarily in systemically under-resourced communities across Southern California (East LA, Southeast LA, South LA, Compton, and San Diego) - Mission: “To create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose — college, career, and beyond — so they can lead fulfilling lives and create a more just world.” ## Products & Services - **KIPP SoCal Public Schools (24 schools)**: Tuition-free, open-enrollment K-12 charter schools offering rigorous academics, character development, enrichment, social-emotional learning, and mental health support. Operates under 20 Local Education Agencies (LEAs). - **Teacher Residency Program**: A one‑year apprenticeship program where aspiring teachers earn a California teaching credential and a Master’s degree while gradually taking on instructional responsibilities alongside a mentor teacher. - **School Leader Fellow Program (SLFP)**: A one‑year leadership development program for current instructional leaders to prepare to become school leaders (successor or founding). - **Special Education Services**: A team providing specialized instruction, trauma-informed interventions, and equitable inclusive practices to support all students. - **School Success Team (SST)**: Regional support roles in Academics, KIPP Through College, Operations & Finance, Talent, and Technology. ## Market Standing - **Valuation/Market Cap**: Not applicable (nonprofit). Annual revenue estimated at **$25M–$50M** (LinkedIn). - **Key Metric**: Annual Revenue (nonprofit) – $25M–$50M. Total funding is not disclosed; operates as a federally tax-exempt organization (EIN 26-1607268). - **Notable Investors/Partners**: Part of the national KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) network, one of the largest charter school networks in the U.S. - **Growth Signals**: - Headcount: 544 employees (+10.1% YoY, +80 people) as of 2025 (LinkedIn). - Now operates 24 schools across 20 LEAs, serving more than **10,000 students** and supporting **6,800 alumni**. - 85% of all leadership positions were filled internally in the past year, indicating strong talent development and retention. - 85% of staff and 67% of leadership identify as people of color; 82% of leadership identify as female. ## Competitive Advantages - **National Network Scale**: Belongs to KIPP, a well‑established, high‑performing charter network with proven models for college readiness. - **Commitment to Anti‑Racism**: Adopted explicit Anti‑Racist Policy & Standards, which drives hiring, instruction, and school culture. - **Internal Mobility**: 85% of leadership roles filled internally; clear career pathways from Instructional Assistant to Teacher to School Leader. - **Competitive Compensation**: Among the highest teacher salary scales in Los Angeles, with salary increases of $10,000–$20,000 in the first 5 years, plus differentials for advanced degrees and National Board Certification. - **Diverse Workforce**: Reflects the communities served – 85% staff of color, 67% leadership of color. ## Strategic Focus - Continue expanding the network to serve more students and alumni across Southern California. - Invest in talent development through the Teacher Residency and School Leader Fellow programs to grow leaders from within. - Maintain rigorous academic standards and a whole‑child approach, integrating social‑emotional learning, anti‑racist practices, and family engagement. - Support alumni through college and career via the KIPP Through College program. ## Why Work Here - **Culture**: KIPP SoCal emphasizes joyful, academically excellent schools and a commitment to anti‑racist, anti‑biased practices. Staff are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work. - **Career Growth**: Clear, supported pathways from Instructional Assistant to Teacher to Administrative roles. 85% of leadership positions were filled internally last year. Formal programs like the Teacher Residency and School Leader Fellow Program provide structured advancement. - **Compensation & Benefits**: - 2024‑25 teacher salary scale is among the highest in Los Angeles. - Salaries increased $10,000–$20,000 in the first 5 years. - Differentials for Master’s degree, National Board Certification, and SpEd Autism Authorization. - Stipends for school‑based leadership roles and coaching. - 12‑month pay calendar, paid on the 1st and 15th, with summer break (mid‑June through end of July) off for teachers. - **Work Location**: School‑based (in‑person) in Los Angeles (East LA, Southeast LA, South LA, Compton) and one school in San Diego. Regional Support roles are likely hybrid or office‑based. - **Perks**: Comprehensive health and benefits program; opportunity to earn a teaching credential and Master’s degree in one year through the apprenticeship program. ## Sources 1. [kippsocal.org - Careers Page](https://www.kippsocal.org/careers) 2. [jobs.lever.co - KIPP SoCal Public Schools Careers](https://jobs.lever.co/kippsocal) 3. [linkedin.com - KIPP SoCal Public Schools Company Profile](https://linkedin.com/company/kippsocal) 4. [kippsocal.org - Our Team](https://www.kippsocal.org/about/our-team) 5. [guidestar.org - KIPP SoCal Public Schools Profile](https://www.guidestar.org/profile/26-1607268) ## Other roles at KIPP SoCal Public Schools - [Expanded Learning Program Instructor (COMPTON)](https://feeny.ai/job/expanded-learning-program-instructor-compton-kipp-socal-public-schools-los-kbwv6gmsa3vj) — Los Angeles, CA - [School Transformation Specialist](https://feeny.ai/job/school-transformation-specialist-kipp-socal-public-schools-sst-school-success-m84kb891gmst) — SST - School Success Team - [Resource & Inclusion Teacher](https://feeny.ai/job/resource-inclusion-teacher-kipp-socal-public-schools-los-angeles-m1m7eg2e1vmm) — Los Angeles, CA - [Science Teacher - Up to $10K Signing Bonus](https://feeny.ai/job/science-teacher-up-to-10k-signing-bonus-kipp-socal-public-schools-los-angeles-ge3x9h5dmkv9) — Los Angeles, CA - [Math Teacher - Signing Bonus Eligible](https://feeny.ai/job/math-teacher-signing-bonus-eligible-kipp-socal-public-schools-los-angeles-x5d2c2maja6y) — Los Angeles, CA - [Social Studies Teacher - Signing Bonus Eligible Role](https://feeny.ai/job/social-studies-teacher-signing-bonus-eligible-role-kipp-socal-public-schools-nb54fz1yqrk0) — Los Angeles, CA - [Associate Director of Teaching and Learning, Science](https://feeny.ai/job/associate-director-of-teaching-and-learning-science-kipp-socal-public-schools-wyz5ya6ppyjy) — Los Angeles, CA - [Resource & Inclusion Teacher (Special Day Class) - Signing Bonus Eligible](https://feeny.ai/job/resource-inclusion-teacher-special-day-class-signing-bonus-eligible-kipp-socal-f8wwarq5m87d) — Los Angeles, CA - [English Teacher](https://feeny.ai/job/english-teacher-kipp-socal-public-schools-los-angeles-nbgdtnmh0wzx) — Los Angeles, CA - [Regional Math Instructional Coach](https://feeny.ai/job/regional-math-instructional-coach-kipp-socal-public-schools-los-angeles-6h9abzpdzcja) — Los Angeles, CA