Why Harlem Gems Pre-K?

At Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ), our mission is to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and unlock new possibilities for our children, families, and communities. As the Pre-Kindergarten school within HCZ’s cradle-to-career pathway, Harlem Gems prepares our youngest scholars to succeed by delivering exceptional education and building a strong academic foundation – empowering young minds, inspiring potential, and creating lasting change. By joining, you become part of a transformative movement dedicated to shaping brighter futures and driving extraordinary outcomes for those we serve.

Harlem Gems is the final step in our early childhood pipeline. A top-notch, year-round, full-day pre-kindergarten program, Gems works with 160 children across two sites to ensure that each and everyone enters kindergarten school-ready. Gems staff encourage strong family involvement, engaging parents and caregivers in classroom activities, and creating consistency between home and school.

We’re seeking a certified Pre-K Special Education Teacher (“Learning Specialist”) who shares our goal: to get all our scholars to and through college.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred
• Valid NYS Teaching Certification for Students with Disabilities (Birth-2nd or All Grades)
• Minimum of 2 years of early childhood teaching experience, ideally in an urban setting
• Minimum of 1 year of experience providing special education services

Position Overview:

• Provide individualized and inclusive instruction to scholars who are at-risk and those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Develop and implement personalized learning plans aligned with students’ action plans and IEPs to achieve measurable goals.
• Collaborate closely with general education teachers to meet students’ academic, social, emotional, and physical needs.
• Monitor, assess, and document student progress to ensure growth and celebrate milestones.
• Create engaging, differentiated lessons that inspire curiosity and make learning accessible for all.
• Build strong partnerships with families, school leaders, and colleagues to support student success.
• Maintain high expectations for student learning, behavior, and personal development—because every child can thrive.

Teacher Schedule:

• Monday – Friday: 7:40 am – 4:00 pm or 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (alternating)

Benefits

We’re passionate about hiring outstanding special education teachers who are dedicated to helping our scholars thrive. In return, we offer a highly competitive benefits package because we believe our teachers deserve it!

Our benefits include:

• Generous paid time off, including sick and personal days
• No-cost health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
• $10,000 sign-on bonus for certified teachers
• Up to $30,000 in student loan forgiveness
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Annual and performance-based bonuses

Additionally, teachers receive a personal laptop, access to Smartboards and tablets, and biweekly professional development. Our educators are supported by a dedicated team of academic coaches, deans, guidance counselors, and social workers, all committed to your success and that of our scholars.

The Pre-K Learning Specialist salary ranges from $70,000 - 140,000. Salaries are determined based on years of relevant experience, certification, and education level.

Harlem Children's Zone is an Equal Opportunity Employer.