Teacher (Elementary) Special Education

Colorado Springs School District 11 • Colorado Springs, CO

3d • 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

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

Nice To Haves

• Preferred qualifications include a master’s degree, prior K–12 special education teaching experience, and/or bilingual proficiency (English/Spanish or other district-identified languages).

Responsibilities

• Provide Specialized Instruction 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.
• Develop and Implement IEPs 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).
• Monitor and Assess Student Progress 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.
• Collaborate with Staff and Families 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.
• Promote Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environments Implement positive behavior supports and proactive strategies to foster student engagement and independence.
• Advocate for equitable access to general education settings and resources.
• Ensure Legal and Ethical Compliance 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.
• Engage in Professional Growth and Collaboration 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.

Benefits

• Employees in this category will also receive the following for the 2025-2026 school year: Non-Recurring Pay: 6% of base salary in Non-Recurring Pay (distributed as 3% on November paycheck and 3% on May paycheck).
• Staffing Stability Incentive (Adams Elementary, Galileo Middle School and Mitchell High School): All Teachers/SSPs (regardless of FTE) will receive an additional $5,000 split over two payments ($2,500 in November and $2,500 in May).
• NOTE: This is prorated based off of FTE. Teaching and SSP Staff qualify to receive an additional 10 extra days (beyond the District Calendar), paid at the per diem rate. Five (5) days for USIP design and five (5) days as “collaborative flex” days.
• Mitchell High School Only: Teachers/SSPs also receive a one-step increase (paid monthly).
• Pay for Performance (Mitchell High School): All Teachers/SSPs receive a Pay for Performance Bonus that is paid out in the fall (utilizing performance measures criteria from the previous year).
• Additional 10% to Base Pay for the following Hard to Fill positions: OT, PT, School Nurses, Audiologists, & School Psychologists
• Additional 15% to Base Pay for the following Hard to Fill position(s): SLP

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level