Preschool SPED Teacher

Preschool SPED Teacher for 2026/2027 School Year

Position Overview:

The Preschool SPED Teacher is responsible for creating a nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for young children with diverse learning needs. The teacher facilitates each child's cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and adaptive development while implementing individualized education programs (IEPs) in accordance with federal and state guidelines. We are offering a $3,000 hard-to-fill stipend and a supportive, collaborative environment to help you thrive.

Licensure Requirements:
Valid New Mexico Special Education license, or ability to obtain required licensure.

The position is open until filled.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

* Demonstrate expert knowledge of Early Childhood and Special Education content, instructional strategies, and the approved curriculum.

* Deliver instruction aligned with students' Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), adapting teaching strategies to meet diverse needs.

* Foster a safe, supportive, and structured learning environment that encourages independence and positive behavior.

* Acknowledge and support student diversity, using culturally responsive and developmentally appropriate practices.

* Participate in the development, review, and revision of IEPs and early childhood curriculum planning.

* Respond flexibly and productively to changes and handle other tasks as assigned.

* Promote children's personal, social, emotional, and academic growth through differentiated instruction.

* Establish and maintain positive relationships with students, staff, and families, using effective communication.

* Demonstrate teacher competencies in line with state evaluation and licensure requirements.

* Uphold professional and ethical standards and engage in reflective practice.

* Support the mission and vision of the Portales Municipal School District.

Additional

Duties and Responsibilities:

* Use a variety of assessment tools to monitor progress and inform instruction.

* Prepare and maintain lesson plans, individualized instruction materials, and documentation for IEP compliance.

* Supervise and mentor educational assistants, practicum students, or student teachers as assigned.

* Attend multidisciplinary team meetings, including IEP, 504, and Child Find conferences.

* Maintain confidentiality of student records and family information.

* Provide meaningful learning opportunities that reflect play-based and child-centered methodologies.

* Adhere to all district, state, and federal policies including IDEA and FERPA.

* Implement Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) as appropriate.

* Collaborate in the transition planning process for children moving to kindergarten or other placements.

* Integrate technology and assistive devices into instructional strategies where appropriate.

* Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal or Superintendent.

Physical Requirements:

* Medium:
Lift up to 50 lbs occasionally & up to 25 lbs frequently

* Engage in physical activity typical of preschool settings (e.g., sitting on the floor, lifting young children, moving classroom materials)

Safety/Health and Other Requirements:

* Knowledge of universal hygiene and safety procedures

* FBI fingerprint background check required

* May require prolonged periods of standing, reading, writing, and outdoor supervision

Work Environment:

* Early childhood classroom with varied levels of noise, activity, and mobility needs

* Must be flexible, patient, and able to adapt to frequent interruptions

* May involve home or site visits

* Occasional after-hours work may be required

About Portales Municipal Schools:
Portales, NM, with a population of approximately 15,000, is rooted in agriculture and home to Eastern New Mexico University. Located less than 20 miles from Cannon Air Force Base near Clovis, NM, Portales offers a supportive community for education professionals. The district includes six grade-level schools, with Portales High School serving grades 9-12.