Special Education Teacher-ASD

Middle School Special Education Teacher

At Hopkins Public Schools, we believe that our strength lies in the diversity of our students, staff, and community. We are a proudly inclusive district serving approximately 7,200 students across the City of Hopkins and surrounding communities. Our district represents a rich mosaic of cultures, backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences; we value and celebrate that diversity in everything we do. As an academically rigorous and human-centered district, we are committed to fostering a welcoming environment where every student and staff member feels seen, heard, and valued.

There is no "typical" Hopkins student, and we embrace this truth as a catalyst for innovation, growth, and equity in learning. We seek educators and staff who are equity-minded, culturally responsive, and deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where all learners can thrive. We welcome candidates who are passionate about dismantling systemic barriers, advancing justice, and preparing students to become bold, collaborative, and compassionate global citizens.

When you join Hopkins Public Schools, you are not just joining a district, you are becoming part of a community that honors difference, nurtures potential, and inspires remarkable achievement in every learner, from birth through graduation. You are welcome  belong at Hopkins.

A middle school special education teacher in an ASD-focused Setting II and III hybrid self-contained program provides specialized instruction and behavioral, social-emotional, and sensory supports to students with autism spectrum disorder and related educational needs. The program is designed to address individualized IEP goals in the areas of academics, communication, self-regulation, executive functioning, social awareness, adaptive skills, and student success within both specialized and inclusive educational environments.

The teacher demonstrates a strong understanding of autism spectrum disorder, neurodiversity-affirming practices, sensory processing needs, positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), and evidence-based instructional strategies for students with social, emotional, communication, and behavioral needs. Knowledge and experience in instructional design, differentiated curriculum, progress monitoring, functional behavior assessment, data-based decision making, and due process requirements associated with the development, implementation, and monitoring of IEPs are essential.

Qualified applicants possess a broad range of instructional and interpersonal skills to deliver rigorous academic instruction through multiple teaching modalities, including explicit instruction, structured teaching, visual supports, executive functioning supports, and social communication strategies. The teacher is skilled in supporting students with self-regulation, emotional awareness, sensory needs, and peer engagement through proactive, trauma-informed, and relationship-based practices. The individual will provide leadership and direction to paraprofessional staff to ensure consistent implementation of behavioral supports, instructional accommodations, sensory strategies, safety procedures, and student-specific programming throughout the school day.

The teacher collaborates closely with general education teachers, related service providers, school psychologists, social workers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and families to create inclusive and supportive learning environments that promote student independence, engagement, and access to grade-level standards to the greatest extent appropriate. The ideal candidate demonstrates flexibility, collaboration, effective communication, and strong problem-solving skills while maintaining high expectations and individualized supports that foster academic growth, social development, and meaningful participation in the school community.

Required Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:
Continued employment is contingent upon all required licenses and certificates being maintained in active status without suspension or revocation. Driver's license. Valid Minnesota Teaching License Special Education License, ASD Preferred

Working Environment:
Work is performed in a school classroom and outdoor environments. Hours & Compensation: 1.0 - FTE - 185 Days HEA Union Contract Range: BA, Step 0: $51,000 MA, Step 0: $60,228 Position specific Benefits information is available HERE Union Contracts, Position Handbook/Agreements are located HERE