Elementary Special Education Teacher – DCD #ESC3155
About The Position
We are seeking a dedicated Elementary Special Education Teacher – Developmental Cognitive Disabilities (DCD) to provide individualized instruction and educational support for students with developmental and cognitive disabilities. Working under the direction of the Building Principal and Special Education Administration, the teacher will develop and implement standards-based lessons, monitor student progress, manage special education due process requirements, and collaborate closely with general education teachers, paraeducators, families, and related service professionals. The ideal candidate is a licensed Minnesota educator who is committed to maintaining high expectations while adapting instruction, behavioral supports, and learning environments to meet individual student needs.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Education, Special Education, or a related instructional field.
- Valid Minnesota teaching license appropriate for the assigned special education responsibilities, or proof of pending approved licensure.
- Knowledge of IEP development, implementation, progress monitoring, and special education due process.
- Experience differentiating instruction for students with diverse learning needs.
- Strong classroom and behavior-management skills.
- Ability to collect and use academic and behavioral data to make instructional decisions.
- Strong communication, organization, and collaboration skills.
- Ability to effectively direct and collaborate with paraeducators.
- Commitment to maintaining high expectations for students with disabilities.
Nice To Haves
- Developmental Cognitive Disabilities (DCD) licensure preferred.
Responsibilities
- Develop unit plans, lesson plans, and performance tasks using district-approved curriculum and instructional resources.
- Assess student abilities, academic needs, and learning styles to determine appropriate instructional strategies.
- Provide specially designed instruction aligned with student needs, district expectations, and Minnesota academic standards.
- Differentiate instruction and modify curriculum to support individual student learning goals.
- Incorporate technology and appropriate instructional tools into daily lessons.
- Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Monitor student progress toward IEP goals and adjust instruction based on assessment data.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret academic and behavioral data to guide instructional decisions.
- Complete required assessments, progress reports, grades, and special education documentation.
- Meet all legal requirements associated with special education due process.
- Implement structured behavioral supports during instructional and non-instructional activities.
- Gather behavioral data and use it to develop student-centered interventions.
- Collaborate with general education teachers, related service providers, paraeducators, administrators, and families.
- Provide direction and support to classroom paraeducators and volunteers.
- Communicate regularly with students and families regarding progress, expectations, and educational needs.
- Participate in parent-teacher conferences, open houses, team meetings, professional development, and district committees.
- Maintain a safe, structured, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
- Stay current with special education practices, instructional strategies, and educational technology.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Ongoing staff development
- Continuous professional development
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
