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)
• $6,000 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 $65,000 - $95,000. Salaries are determined based on years of relevant experience, certification, and education level.

Harlem Children’s Zone is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.