Special Education Internship

Special Education Teacher Intern

Learn To Thrive Academy
Brandon, FL

Job Type

Full-Time or Part-Time | School Year Position

Salary

Competitive hourly rate based on education and experience.

About Learn To Thrive Academy

Learn To Thrive Academy is an innovative K–12 microschool serving traditional learners, students with learning differences, and neurodiverse learners in a small, relationship-centered environment. Our mission is to cultivate confident, independent, and future-ready learners through personalized instruction, project-based learning, and meaningful real-world experiences.

We believe every child has unique strengths, and we are seeking educators who are passionate about helping students discover and develop those strengths.

Position Summary

The Special Education Teacher Intern is an aspiring special educator who is passionate about inclusive education and eager to develop professional teaching skills while working alongside experienced educators.

Under the guidance of the Director and Lead Teachers, the Teacher Intern will provide academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and organizational support to students with diverse learning needs. This position offers hands-on experience in a collaborative microschool environment and is ideal for education students, recent graduates, career changers, or individuals pursuing teacher certification.

Primary Responsibilities

Student Support

Assist with implementing individualized instructional strategies for students with diverse learning needs.

Provide small-group and one-on-one academic support.

Support students with executive functioning, organization, attention, and self-regulation skills.

Reinforce classroom expectations and positive behavior supports.

Encourage student independence, confidence, and self-advocacy.

Help students remain engaged during lessons and transitions.

Classroom Instruction

Assist in delivering engaging lessons in reading, math, writing, science, social studies, and life skills.

Support project-based learning activities.

Modify instructional materials under teacher supervision.

Assist with multisensory learning activities.

Prepare instructional materials and classroom resources.

Support classroom technology integration.

Inclusive Practices

Build positive relationships with students from diverse backgrounds.

Help create a welcoming, safe, and inclusive classroom culture.

Support accommodations and instructional modifications.

Respect each student's learning profile and individual pace.

Promote positive peer interactions and collaborative learning.

Behavior & Social Emotional Learning

Assist students in developing:

Emotional regulation

Social skills

Problem-solving

Conflict resolution

Communication skills

Self-advocacy

Implement positive behavior supports and restorative practices.

Redirect behaviors respectfully while maintaining student dignity.

Collaboration

Work closely with classroom teachers and administration.

Participate in staff meetings and professional development.

Collaborate on lesson preparation and classroom organization.

Communicate professionally with families when directed.

Maintain confidentiality regarding student information.

Classroom Environment

Help maintain a clean, organized, engaging learning environment.

Prepare learning centers and instructional materials.

Assist with arrival, dismissal, recess, lunch, and transitions.

Supervise students during indoor and outdoor activities.

Support field trips and community-based learning experiences.

Professional Expectations

Successful candidates demonstrate:

A genuine passion for helping children succeed

Patience and flexibility

Growth mindset

Strong communication skills

Positive attitude

Professionalism

Dependability

Initiative

Coachability

Creativity

Teamwork

Emotional intelligence

Integrity

Commitment to continuous learning

Preferred Qualifications

Currently enrolled in or recently completed a degree in:

Special Education

Elementary Education

Exceptional Student Education (ESE)

Psychology

Child Development

Speech-Language Pathology

Applied Behavior Analysis

Related education field

Experience working with children in schools, childcare, camps, tutoring, or youth programs preferred.

CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain).

Knowledge of autism, ADHD, dyslexia, executive functioning, or other learning differences is a plus.

Required Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent (Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred)

Ability to pass a Level II Background Screening

Ability to lift up to 40 pounds

Ability to participate in outdoor activities and active learning experiences

Reliable transportation

Strong organizational and communication skills

Why Join Learn To Thrive?

At Learn To Thrive, you'll gain valuable experience while making a meaningful difference in students' lives.

We offer:

Small class sizes

Supportive mentoring from experienced educators

Hands-on special education experience

Professional development opportunities

Project-based learning environment

Multisensory instructional approach

Neurodiversity-affirming school culture

Opportunities for career growth and future teaching positions

Collaborative, mission-driven team

If you believe every child deserves to be seen, supported, challenged, and empowered, we'd love to meet you.

Learn To Thrive Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive environment where every student and team member can thrive.