# Pre-K Learning Specialist (Special Education Teacher)

> Harlem Children's Zone · New York, United States · — · Posted 2026-01-07

**Salary:** USD 65,000–95,402

**Workplace:** on_site

**Department:** Harlem Gems

## Description

**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._

## Apply

[Apply at Harlem Children's Zone](https://apply.workable.com/harlem-childrens-zone/j/39335E83D2/apply)

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