26-27 SY Special Education Teacher (Elementary) Colorado Springs School District 11

Colorado Springs School District 11•Colorado Springs, CO

14h•Onsite

About The Position

Teachers at Colorado Springs School District 11 are professional educators who ensure that every student has access to rigorous, engaging, and equitable learning opportunities. They embody the district’s values of innovation, inclusion, collaboration, and excellence, and are key contributors to creating a thriving school culture that supports academic and social-emotional success. Core expectations include designing and implementing standards-aligned instruction, maintaining an inclusive learning environment, integrating technology effectively, using data to inform teaching, collaborating with colleagues, and engaging families as partners in education. Teachers also serve as reflective practitioners who continuously seek to improve through professional learning and feedback.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education or related field.
Valid Colorado Teaching License with appropriate Special Education endorsement (e.g., Mild/Moderate Needs, Generalist, or equivalent).
Knowledge of Federal and state laws governing special education, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504.
Knowledge of Principles and practices of individualized instruction, differentiation, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
Knowledge of Methods for developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), including goal setting, progress monitoring, and documentation.
Knowledge of Evidence-based instructional and behavioral interventions for students with a range of disabilities.
Knowledge of Strategies to promote social-emotional learning, self-regulation, and independence among students.
Knowledge of Assessment tools and data collection methods used to evaluate student learning and inform instructional decisions.
Knowledge of Collaborative and inclusive practices that support effective partnerships between general and special education staff.
Knowledge of Ethical and professional standards related to confidentiality, equity, and student advocacy.
Skills in Designing and delivering individualized instruction that addresses students’ academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.
Skills in Writing clear, compliant, and measurable IEP goals aligned with student strengths and needs.
Skills in Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting student performance data to guide instruction and interventions.
Skills in Managing and documenting multiple caseloads, deadlines, and compliance requirements efficiently.
Skills in Communicating effectively and empathetically with students, families, colleagues, and community partners.
Skills in Implementing positive behavior supports and proactive classroom management strategies.
Skills in Using assistive technology, digital tools, and adaptive resources to support student learning and access.
Skills in Working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams to ensure cohesive and inclusive support for students.
Ability to Foster a supportive, inclusive classroom environment that promotes respect, engagement, and student growth.
Ability to Adapt curriculum and instruction to accommodate individual learning differences and cultural backgrounds.
Ability to Maintain accurate, organized, and timely records consistent with district and legal requirements.
Ability to Build trusting relationships with students and families to encourage advocacy, communication, and partnership.
Ability to Apply problem-solving and critical thinking skills to address academic and behavioral challenges.
Ability to Reflect on professional practice and actively pursue ongoing learning and development.
Ability to Uphold confidentiality, integrity, and professionalism in all aspects of special education service delivery.
Ability to Demonstrate commitment to equity, inclusion, and the district’s mission to inspire every mind through student-centered education.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree
Prior K–12 special education teaching experience
Bilingual proficiency (English/Spanish or other district-identified languages)

Responsibilities

Design and deliver individualized, evidence-based instruction aligned with each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Adapt curriculum materials and teaching strategies to meet diverse learning, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.
Collaborate with IEP teams to develop measurable goals and appropriate accommodations and modifications.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and district requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Collect and analyze data on student performance to inform instructional decisions and interventions.
Maintain accurate records, progress reports, and documentation to support ongoing evaluation of student growth.
Partner with general education teachers, related service providers, and administrators to support inclusive practices and coordinated instruction.
Communicate regularly with families and caregivers to share progress, celebrate successes, and address student needs.
Implement positive behavior supports and proactive strategies to foster student engagement and independence.
Advocate for equitable access to general education settings and resources.
Maintain confidentiality and adhere to all legal and ethical standards related to special education services and student records.
Participate in IEP meetings, eligibility determinations, and compliance reviews as required.
Participate in professional learning communities, training, and development opportunities to enhance instructional practices.
Reflect on teaching effectiveness and contribute to school and district initiatives promoting inclusive, student-centered education.