Special Education, State Teacher I - Campus at Lookout Mountain Youth Services Center

About the Division of Youth Services

The Division of Youth Services (DYS) is mission‑driven to provide a continuum of residential and non‑residential services, including juvenile detention, commitment, parole, and safe programming for youth ages 10 to 21. DYS maintains fifteen secure facilities and partners with private providers across the state. It oversees the Colorado Youth Detention Continuum and administers juvenile parole services statewide.

This teaching position delivers classroom instruction and supports educational programming for youth in institutional facilities. The role provides academic, vocational, and other education‑related services and collaborates with state and community agencies to ensure quality instruction and compliance with special education standards.

Establishes and maintains an effective classroom environment, utilizing classroom management and engagement strategies. Assesses students via multiple methods, monitors progress, and aligns instruction with state standards, DYS standards, and Common Core. Prepares daily and unit lesson plans, incorporates technology, and implements differentiated instruction for multi‑age, multi‑level learners. Documents and reports daily attendance, grades, and progress data. Provides interventions, IEP accommodations, and behavioral plans.

Substitutes when required.

• Provide data and feedback to the Special Education Coordinator on student needs, goals, and MTSS strategies.
• Determine instructional levels and content based on individual student needs.
• Communicate information to stakeholders within limited time frames.
• Implement proactive positive behavioral interventions aligned with DYS models.
• Select themes and topics that engage youth and integrate real‑world career skills.
• Create and use rubrics to assess student work.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a field related to the assignment.

• Current, valid Professional Teacher license issued by the Colorado Department of Education with a Special Education endorsement.

• Knowledge of research‑based instructional strategies.
• Understanding of classroom‑based behavioral interventions.
• Ability to build rapport while maintaining boundaries.
• Experience with urban and at‑risk populations.
• Strong content area knowledge.
• Teamwork and cross‑curricular collaboration.
• Interpersonal communication skills.
• Problem‑solving ability.
• Safety and security awareness.
• Technological fluency to enhance instruction.

• Dual endorsements or documentation of multiple content areas.
• Experience with special needs populations, including IEPs, 504 plans, and multilingual youth.
• Experience with at‑risk or adjudicated youth.
• Proficiency in data‑driven instructional decisions.
• Leadership experience.
• Secondary school teaching experience.
• Trauma‑informed practices and knowledge.
• Experienced in differentiated and project‑based learning.
• Previous state teaching experience.

• 21 years of age or older.
• Full background and reference checks required.
• Colorado residency at the time of application and throughout employment.
• Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) check required.
• Valid Colorado Driver’s License (non‑restricted).
• Travel may be required for meetings and professional development.
• Must complete DYS Pre‑service Training Academy, Field Training Program, and mandatory annual training.
• Compliance with additional safety and screening requirements, including the Diana Screen.
• Willingness to disclose any prior state employment disciplinary issues if applicable.

• Retirement benefits (PERA Defined Benefit or Defined Contribution, 401(k), 457).
• Medical, dental, and vision health plans.
• Employer‑contributed Health Savings Account.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Employee Benefit Hub resource center.
• Employee wellness program.
• Flexible schedules and training opportunities.
• Remote work arrangements for eligible positions.

The State of Colorado is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments that represent the state’s diverse communities. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, or other protected status.