Special Education Teacher, Village Ranch Alternative Program, Cokato, MN

Position Title: Special Education Teacher
Assignment

Location:

Village Ranch Alternative Program (VRAP) – Cokato, MN
Hours per Day: 8 Hours
Schedule: 182-day contract per school calendar
Anticipated

Start Date:

August 2026
Salary: Placement per the teacher contract, based on education and experience.
Other compensation: Mileage reimbursement based on current IRS standard business mileage rate for staff traveling on a regular basis.
Benefits: As outlined on MAWSECO’s Summary of Benefits.

MAWSECO is seeking a dedicated Special Education Teacher to join our team at the Village Ranch Alternative Program. This position is vital in supporting students ages 12–18 who require specialized instruction in an alternative setting. You will be responsible for the development and implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), creating a supportive classroom environment, and fostering academic and social growth.

• Plan, develop, and write IEPs and behavior management plans.
• Deliver tailored instruction in academic areas consistent with the requirements of member districts.
• Utilize data-driven assessments to adjust instructional techniques and meet student needs.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including paraprofessionals, member district staff, and interagency partners.
• Provide leadership and guidance to paraprofessional staff within the classroom.

Education: Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education.
Licensure: Current State of Minnesota Teacher License in Special Education (e.g., EBD, LD, ASD, DD, or ABS).
Driver’s License: Valid Minnesota Driver’s License.
Preferred Experience: Prior teaching experience in an alternative or therapeutic setting. Strong background in behavior management and crisis intervention.
Skills: Strong organizational skills, proficiency in instructional technology, and excellent communication abilities.

VRAP is an educational facility located on the grounds of the Village Ranch, Inc. Care and Treatment Facility in Cokato, MN. We serve students who may have disabilities in Emotional Behavioral Disorders (EBD), Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD), or other learning difficulties. Our program provides a safe, flexible, and therapeutic environment designed to help students transition successfully back to their home districts or toward future vocational opportunities.

Established in 1975, the Meeker and Wright Special Education Cooperative (MAWSECO) serves seven member districts:
Annandale, Dassel-Cokato, Delano, Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted, Litchfield, Maple Lake, and Rockford.
We are committed to fiscal equity and a diverse range of services, including our Autism Resource Team, Assistive Technology specialists, and Behavior Analysts. At MAWSECO, we believe that each person has intrinsic value and the capacity to contribute to society. We offer a community-oriented environment where staff are supported and professional growth is a priority.

MAWSECO utilizes an online application system. Please visit our website to apply:
For application-related questions, please contact Elizabeth Sullivan at  or esullivan.mn.us.

For specific questions regarding this position, please contact:
Laura Holmquist, Program Administrator: lholmquist.mn.us or

MAWSECO is an equal opportunity employer.