Special Education Teacher

State of Nebraska•Kearney, NE

38d

About The Position

Make a Lasting Impact – Teach, Inspire, and Empower Nebraska’s Youth! Are you passionate about making a difference in young lives? Ready to turn your teaching skills into a powerful force for positive change? Join the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as a Special Education Teacher at West Kearney High School, where your work truly matters. At DHHS, we don’t just educate – we transform futures. Our Youth Treatment School System provides exceptional education and therapeutic support to high-acuity youth, helping them overcome challenges and rediscover a love for learning. We're looking for dedicated educators who are ready to be part of something bigger – a team that believes in a holistic, rehabilitative approach to care. ✨ What Sets Us Apart? Unlike traditional public schools, our teachers work a consistent Monday–Friday schedule from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM – no late evenings, no grading at midnight, no weekend emails. You get to focus on what matters most: your students and your well-being. 🎯 This is more than a teaching job. It’s a mission-driven career where you’ll: ✅ Empower youth to reach their full potential ✅ Foster a safe, supportive learning environment ✅ Collaborate with passionate professionals who care ✅ Be a vital part of a statewide effort to uplift vulnerable Nebraskans If you’re looking for purpose, balance, and impact, this is your chance. 📢 Ready to change lives – including your own? Apply now and help us shape a brighter tomorrow for Nebraska’s youth. What we can offer you: Teacher Retirement Plan Stable Employment Opportunity Continuous Learning Opportunities, including LinkedIn Learning courses Tuition Reimbursement Comprehensive Benefits Options Consistent Work Schedule M-F 7:45-3:45; no Conference days required Starting salary is $43,056, with additional pay based on degree level and years of experience. Salary will be set in accordance with the SCATA Contract. The State of Nebraska offers a comprehensive benefits package, learn more here! https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/benefits.html

Requirements

Valid Nebraska Teaching Certificate with at least a 7-12 endorsement.
Classroom Management will be essential for the optimal learning opportunity.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree from an accredited school
Previous Teaching experience in the field preferred but not required
Knowledge of NE State Standards and Rule 10
Teaching experience with at risk youth is beneficial, but not a requirement.
Special Education endorsement strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement both group and individual lesson plans for daily learning experiences.
Maintains accurate and complete records as required by laws, policies, and regulations.
Instruct students utilizing a variety of classroom methods, adapting methodology and instructional materials to meet student needs, abilities, and IEPs.
Assigns and grades class work and homework; prepares, administers, and grades tests.
Establishes and implements behavioral protocols; observes and evaluates student behavior, performance, social development, and physical health.
Maintain professional communication with administration and facility administrators and leaders.
Oversee classes for high acuity youth ages 14-18.
Additional duties may include, but are not limited to, escorting students, community projects, and collaborative projects with other faculty / staff members.