Special Education Teacher (Denver Metropolitan Area)

About Us: At Denver Public Schools, we are dedicated to providing exceptional support to students with complex autism needs. Our mission is to create an inclusive, supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and emotionally. We recognize the unique potential in each of our students and strive to empower them to succeed, build independence, and develop critical life skills.

As the school year comes to a close, we recognize the importance of supporting students in their transition and preparing them for the next academic year. The Mild Moderate Needs Teacher plays a pivotal role in ensuring students complete the year and in securing teaching opportunities for the upcoming school year, providing continuity in support and guidance for students and families.

Job Summary: The Mild Moderate Needs Teacher is responsible for developing and delivering specialized instruction to students who have significant academic, behavioral, and emotional needs. This role requires a deep understanding of autism, behavior management techniques, and individualized instruction to meet the unique needs of each student. The Mild/Moderate Teacher will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to create an environment that supports both the emotional and educational growth of students.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support for End-of-Year Transitions: Assist students in preparing for the transition to the next academic year by fostering the development of social skills, emotional regulation, and readiness for new challenges.
• Individualized Instruction: Design and implement individualized education programs (IEPs) that cater to the specific needs of students with autism, ensuring each student’s academic, social, and emotional goals are addressed.
• Develop Adaptive Curriculum: Create and adapt lesson plans and instructional materials to meet the diverse learning styles and needs of students with autism, using evidence-based practices and strategies.
• Behavioral Support: Utilize behavior management techniques, and positive behavioral interventions to promote desired behaviors and reduce challenging behaviors.
• Emotional and Social Development: Foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive classroom environment that encourages social interaction, communication skills, emotional regulation, and self-advocacy.
• Collaborative Teamwork: Work closely with other educators, specialists, and families to ensure a holistic approach to supporting the child’s needs. Participate in regular team meetings to review student progress, adjust strategies, and plan for ongoing development.
• Monitor and Track Progress: Regularly assess and track students’ academic, social, and emotional progress, providing detailed feedback to parents, guardians, and the school leadership team.
• One-on-One and Small Group Support: Provide targeted, one-on-one or small group support to students who require additional assistance in core academic subjects or skill-building activities.
• Family Engagement: Maintain open communication with families, providing updates on student progress and collaborating on strategies to support learning and development at home.
• Professional Development: Stay current with best practices in autism education, special education law, and behavioral interventions by participating in professional development opportunities, workshops, and conferences.
• Securing a Teaching Role for Next Year: Collaborate with school leadership to discuss teaching opportunities for the upcoming year, helping to secure your position and align with your professional development goals. Ensure a smooth transition for the next academic year by updating IEPs and preparing students for their continued growth and learning.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Valid CDE Special Education Generalist (5-21)
• Ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and counselors.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage and communicate effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Patience, empathy, and a commitment to creating a nurturing, inclusive learning environment for students with special needs.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to maintain accurate records of student progress.

What We Offer:

• Competitive Salary: Salary range based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other employee benefits.
• Supportive Environment: Join a collaborative, passionate team committed to professional development and student success.
• Career Growth Opportunities: Opportunities for ongoing professional development, advancement, and leadership roles within the school.

If you are a dedicated educator with a passion for supporting students with autism and a commitment to their success, we invite you to apply for the position of Mild Moderate Teacher and join us in making a difference in the lives of our students. We look forward to collaborating with you to support student transitions at the end of this school year while helping to secure a teaching role for the next.