Job Title:  Education Specialist - Substitute (On-Site)

Location: Sandstone Site, El Dorado Hills, CA

Department: Special Education

Employment Type: Temporary, Full-time, Nonexempt

Anticipated Duration: Through approximately 12/18/26

Pay Rate: $36/hour

Why Join The Cottonwood School?

At The Cottonwood School, we believe that education extends far beyond academics. We are a community dedicated to a personalized, whole-learner approach that nurtures academic, social, and emotional growth. When you join our team, you aren't just filling a position—you are becoming part of a mission-driven organization committed to "Building Community Through Connection."

What sets us apart:

• Relationships First: We believe meaningful connections are the foundation of our work. Our culture is built on trust, empathy, and the belief that every family and staff member has a story worth knowing.
• Student-Centered Innovation: We empower our team to think creatively and embrace a growth mindset. Whether you are an educator or professional staff member, you will have the support to explore innovative approaches that help every student thrive.
• Collaborative Excellence: We are a team that supports one another, generously shares ideas, and celebrates success. We prioritize professional growth and leadership development to ensure our staff feels valued and empowered.
• Joy & Belonging: We intentionally cultivate an environment where staff are fulfilled, communities thrive, and students flourish. We believe joy is an essential part of a thriving educational experience.

If you are a passionate professional looking to make a lasting impact in a collaborative, supportive, and innovative environment, we invite you to help us shape the future of homeschooling.

Visit our Careers Page  to learn more about our school!

About the Role

The Cottonwood School is seeking an Education Specialist - Substitute (On-Site) to provide temporary in-person coverage at the Sandstone School Site for the Special Education Department. This is a temporary, at-will position. The anticipated duration is through approximately 12/20/26, but the end date may be extended or shortened depending on business needs.

Education Specialist - Substitute (On-Site/Telecommute)  

Terms of Employment

• This is a temporary position and does not guarantee extension, continued employment, or conversion to a regular position.
• Employment is at-will and may be ended by either party at any time, with or without notice or cause.
• Temporary employees are welcome to apply for future regular openings and will be considered along with other candidates.
• This is a certificated position. The Cottonwood School is a STRS participating employer; certificated employees are automatically enrolled in the California State Teachers’ Retirement System (STRS).

Application Requirements: 

Please upload the following Required Documents in the Upload Additional Files section:

• Copy of Credentials 
• Transcripts
• 2 Letters of Recommendation (dated within 2 years) (1 if Internal applicant) 

Recruitment Policies

To maintain the integrity of our recruitment process, the use of artificial intelligence tools or automated assistance is not permitted at any point during the assessment or live interview. Candidates are expected to complete all assessments and interviews independently. As part of our commitment to finding the right fit for our culture and role, please note that The Cottonwood School uses TargetSuccess as an assessment tool during our screening process.

Job Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Valid California Education Specialist Instruction Credential or 30-Day Substitute Permit
• English Learner (EL) Authorization
• Basic proficiency in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive) and virtual communication platforms (e.g., Zoom, Google Chat, or similar tools)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a charter school or independent study environment
• Experience using educational technology platforms (e.g., LMS/SIS systems such as Pathways, Clever, or Google Classroom) to support instruction
• Bridge Authorization

Employment Requirements

• AB 2534 Verification
• Background Clearance
• Tuberculosis Clearance (Risk Assessment or Skin Test)
• I-9 Verification (Appropriate US Work Permits as required)
• Complete Required Mandatory Trainings for School Employees

 Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Valid California Education Specialist Instruction Credential or 30-Day Substitute Permit
• English Learner (EL) Authorization
• Basic proficiency in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive) and virtual communication platforms (e.g., Zoom, Google Chat, or similar tools)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a charter school or independent study environment
• Experience using educational technology platforms (e.g., LMS/SIS systems such as Pathways, Clever, or Google Classroom) to support instruction
• Bridge Authorization

Employment Requirements

• AB 2534 Verification
• Background Clearance
• Tuberculosis Clearance (Risk Assessment or Skin Test)
• I-9 Verification (Appropriate US Work Permits as required)
• Complete Required Mandatory Trainings for School Employees