Early Childhood (Ages 3 to 5) Special Ed...

Job Description

We want YOU here!

We are seeking a compassionate, dedicated, and knowledgeable Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Teacher to join our team and provide individualized education and support for young children aged 3 to 5. The ideal candidate will foster an inclusive learning environment that promotes growth in cognitive, social-emotional, communication, adaptive, and motor skills.

Discover the unparalleled support awaiting special education teachers within the Sioux Falls School District!

• With an innovative online IEP system boasting a 96% satisfaction rate among our teachers, and dedicated IEP facilitators streamlining meetings, educators have more time to focus on what truly matteres - nurturing their student's growth.
• Our \" Virutal Office ,\" offered multiple times a month, provides instant support and guidance via Zoom for challenges Special Educators face.
• Join the Special Services Learning Academy which equips educators with the tools they need for success and work with Insturctional Coaches to ensure swift curriculum mastery.
• When it comes to managing classroom dynamics, our esteemed behavior team , including Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) , are on hand to provide expert guidance and support.

In the Sioux Falls School District, you're not just an educator; you're an integral part of a supportive, collaborative team committed to unlocking every student's highest potential.

We want your talent - we want your passion - we want YOU here!

REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION LEVEL:

Bachelor's degree and endorsements in the areas of teaching assignment. Certification or licensure: South Dakota teaching certificate and early childhood special education. Prior experience working with young children with disabilities in education.

EXPERIENCE DESIRED:

Successful student teaching.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Typical early childhood classroom or integrated preschool setting. May involve lifting, toileting, and physical assistance for children with mobility needs. Requires flexibility and responsiveness to the needs of young learners and families.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Demonstrates effective and inclusive teaching strategies that address the diverse learning needs of young students. Proficient in computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, and database management. Well-versed in the implementation of the IEP process and knowledgeable in special education laws and regulations. Travel throughout the school district to support the needs of students on IEPs at various locations.

COMPREHENSIVE BACKGROUND CHECK REQUIREMENT:

Candidates are required to complete a comprehensive background check, including a state and FBI criminal history check with fingerprinting, a sex offender registry check, and a child abuse and neglect registry check. All components must be completed prior to the start of employment and repeated every five years thereafter.

CERTIFICATION

This position requires a valid South Dakota teaching certification with the Early Childhood SPED Birth through Grade Thre e endorsement.

Please note, endorsement requirements may vary based on specific course assignments.

Questions about SD teaching certification:South Dakota Department of Education

YOUTH SUICIDE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION TRAINING

South Dakota Codified Law 13-42-71 equires certified educators to complete at least one hour of approved youth suicide awareness and prevention training every five years. Compliance is verified through district accreditation reviews. You will be required to provide your most recent certificate of completion prior to starting employment with the Sioux Falls School District.

Visit to view the list of approved trainings and detailed instructions for completion. These trainings listed are the only accepted trainings per SDCL 13-42-71. Please carefully review the options before selecting a training as unapproved trainings will require you to retake an approved course.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & DUTIES

1. Instructional Planning & Implementation:
   • Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to meet each child's developmental and educational goals.
   • Design and deliver developmentally appropriate, engaging, and differentiated instruction across core domains.
   • Incorporate play-based, sensory-rich, and hands-on learning experiences aligned with early childhood best practices.
   • Possesses excellent oral and written communication skills, along with strong interpersonal abilities in human relations, leadership, and conflict resolution.
2. Assessment & Progress Monitoring:
   • Conduct formal and informal assessments to evaluate student needs and measure progress toward IEP goals.
   • Maintain accurate records and provide regular progress reports to families and related service providers.
3. Collaboration & Teamwork:
   • Work closely with general education teachers, therapists (OT, PT, SLP), paraprofessionals, and other support staff to support inclusive practices.
   • Facilitate parent-teacher conferences and actively engage families in their child's education and development.
   • Support of non-certified special education teachers through coaching and modeling of best practices.
4. Classroom Management & Environment:
   • Create a structured, supportive, and nurturing classroom environment that is safe, accessible, and conducive to learning.
   • Use positive behavior support strategies to foster social-emotional development and address behavioral challenges.
5. Compliance & Professional Responsibilities:
   • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local special education laws and regulations, including IDEA.
   • Participate in professional development opportunities and maintain required licensure and certifications.
   • Trained in assessment practices and skilled in interpreting evaluation data to inform instructional planning and decision-making.

View the complete job description here: Early Childhood Special Education Teacher (Non-Classroom)

PAY INFORMATION

Starting at $53,981 to $60,793 per year, based on experience.

View the complete salary schedule here: 2026-2027 Teacher Salary Schedule

Pay Day: Last working day of each month.

HOURS & FTE

Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm

1.0 FTE, 40 hours per week, 9 months

CALENDAR
2026-2027 New SFEA Staff Calendar

BENEFIT INFORMATION
Benefits (only for positions 20 hours per week or more)

CURRENT DISTRICT EMPLOYEES

All current District employees interested in applying must complete an application.

Post-Offer Criminal Background Check Required
Relay Services for Deaf or Hard of Hearing: Dial 711, then the desired number

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