Elementary Functional​/Low Incidence Special Education Instructor

Tanglewood Elementary School is seeking an Elementary Functional / Low Incidence Special Education Instructor for the  school year.

The Special Education Instructor creates a positive learning environment to facilitate the personal, social and intellectual development of students, designing instruction that meets individual needs and abilities. The Instructor must work closely with staff and administration of Derby Public Schools.

• Facilitate the personal, social and intellectual development of students.
• Establish a positive learning environment and respond to the individual needs of students.
• Ensure that all activities conform to district guidelines.
• Communicate effectively with all members of the school district.
• Work effectively with community organizations.
• Appropriately operate all equipment as required.
• React to change productively and handle other tasks as assigned.
• Ensure all students served are in their least restrictive environment.
• Support the value of an education and the philosophy and mission of the school district.
• Comply with all district policies, rules and regulations.
• Assist in the early recognition and prevention of educational concerns.
• Participate as a team member in the comprehensive evaluation, review and re‑evaluation process when requested.
• Coordinate the development and implementation of students' Individual Education Plan (IEP).
• Plan and implement effective lessons based on the student IEPs, using time, materials and resources effectively.
• Implement training and other activities as recommended by related service providers, including occupational and physical therapists.
• Monitor student progress and make informed, timely educational decisions.
• Motivate students through effective communication and evaluative feedback.
• In conjunction with the IEP team, provide the students with the least restrictive environment for all IEP goals.
• Demonstrate awareness of the needs of students and provide for individual differences.
• Set high expectations for student achievement and behavior.
• Direct and supervise the work of special education paraprofessionals as assigned.
• When working in the general education classrooms, establish and maintain a positive climate for learning in concert with general education instructors.

• Ability to sit and/or stand for prolonged periods.
• Occasionally move, lift, carry, pull or push heavy objects or materials.
• Occasionally stoop, bend and reach.
• Occasionally travel.
• Work indoors and outdoors year‑round.
• Work in noisy and crowded environments.
• Regular attendance and/or physical presence required.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Current Kansas State Teaching License with appropriate special education endorsement.
• Demonstrated commitment to career development and lifelong learning.

Salary is based on experience and education: $50,003 – $85,354. Annual contract of 184.5 days for the 2026‑2027 school year.

Unpaid PTO, paid parental leave, PDC for salary placement. The 2026 Benefit Guide provides details on health insurance, supplemental insurances, and other benefits.

All inquiries should be directed to Becky Moeder, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, at  Position open until filled.