Elementary Special Education Teacher - Mild​/Moderate , FTE

Elementary Special Education Teacher – Mild/Moderate Needs, 1.0 FTE

Starting Date: Aug 17, 2026

Job Title: Licensed Special Education Teacher

Pay Grade: Licensed Salary Schedule

Department: School

Typical Work Year: 10 months

Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled

Job Description: Applications are being accepted for Elementary School Mild/Moderate Needs Special Education Teachers for the 2026/2027 school year. Must meet CDE and ESSA's requirements for In-Field Teacher in Special Education by the start date.

Benefits: Durango School District employee workforce housing available for the 2026/2027 school year. Position includes a one-time bonus of $1,800 (pro‑rated for late start) in the 2026/2027 school year.

SUMMARY: Develop accommodations and curriculum modifications, create standards‑aligned IEPs, and ensure fidelity of their implementation. In collaboration with the general education staff, plan and deliver specialized instruction and assessment aligned with district learner outcomes and state achievement standards. Supervise assigned students and maintain a positive learning environment. Monitor student progress and adapt instruction to meet individual learning needs, promoting advancement in achievement and fostering positive relationships with students, parents, staff, and community members.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work with the IEP team to develop and implement students' Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and monitor progress.
• Collaborate with school administrators, counselors, and designated service providers to schedule students on the caseload.
• Use case‑management strategies to support student outcomes based on adopted curricula, modifying and tailoring the curriculum as necessary.
• Train and support assigned paraprofessionals in assisting students.
• Utilize formative and summative assessments to evaluate learning and report results as required by district policy.
• Provide character education, conflict‑resolution skills, and responsible work habits.
• Give safety instruction for tasks that pose potential harm or injury.
• Maintain an orderly, positive learning environment and enforce the Student Conduct Code.
• Maintain ongoing relationships with families to share information and improve the home‑school relationship.
• Develop behavior support plans, health plans, safety plans, and crisis plans as necessary.
• Assist students with daily routines, including transportation, toileting, feeding, medical needs, and hygiene.
• Abide by all applicable federal and Colorado laws, board policies, and district regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

ADDITIONAL

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Ensure student safety and welfare at all times.
• Demonstrate prompt attendance and punctuality.
• Submit required reports promptly.
• Protect school district property.
• Report suspected child abuse or neglect as required by law.
• Use the district’s internet and e‑mail system as specified.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned by the principal, superintendent, or their designees.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING: Minimum – Bachelor’s degree in a related subject from an accredited university.

EXPERIENCE: Preferred but not required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, & REGISTRATIONS: Colorado Teaching License with endorsements for levels and subject areas. Pass the PLACE or PRAXIS II Test. Meet CDE and ESSA requirements for In‑Field Teacher. Complete CPI training upon hire.

TECHNICAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, & ABILITIES:

• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
• Understanding of the IEP writing process and standards alignment.
• Ability to develop and implement progress‑monitoring tools.
• Strong decision‑making, analytical and organizational skills.
• Ability to work with diverse student needs at various levels.
• Ability to design accommodations and modifications facilitating mastery of Colorado Academic Standards.

• Critical thinking and problem‑solving skills.
• Maintaining confidentiality.
• Adhering to board, district, and superintendent policies.
• Effective teamwork and collaboration.
• Recognizing and promoting workplace safety.

MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT OPERATING KNOWLEDGE:

• Microcomputers and general office equipment.
• IEP software.
• Microsoft Office applications.
• Student Information Systems.

Durango School District is an equal opportunity educational institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, or need for special education services in admissions, access to treatment, or employment in educational programs or activities which it operates, or any other applicable status protected by federal, state or local law.