2026/2027 Special Education Teacher-Mild/Moderate Needs, Animas Valley Elementary, .5 FTE

Durango School District is accepting applications for a 0.5 FTE (20 hours/week) Mild/Moderate Needs Special Education Teacher at Animas Valley Elementary School for the 2026/2027 school year. Position begins August 17, 2026. For the 26/27 school year, this position includes a $900 one-time FTE pro-rated bonus (bonus pro-rated for late start and FTE).

About the role

Develop accommodations and curriculum modifications, create standards-aligned IEPs, and ensure fidelity of their implementation. In collaboration with general education staff, plan and deliver specialized instruction and assessment aligned with District learner outcomes and State achievement standards. Supervise assigned students, maintain a positive learning environment, and actively progress monitor student goals. Work with general education staff to provide direct and indirect support, adapt instruction to meet individual learning needs, and advance student achievement. Maintain positive interpersonal relationships with students, parents, staff, and community members.

Responsibilities

• Work with the IEP Team to develop and implement students' Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Monitor IEP goals and outcomes, and maintain communication with families and the IEP Team regarding progress.
• Collaborate with the school administrative and counseling team, as well as designated service providers, to develop schedules for students on the caseload.
• Use case management strategies to support student outcomes based on adopted curricula for assigned grades and subjects, ensuring students meet grade/course expectations and standards.
• Collaborate with general education teachers to modify and tailor the curriculum to address individual student differences, learning styles, functional educational levels, and abilities.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of content areas, literacy and numeracy intervention programs, teaching methods, learning styles, and educational research related to learners with special needs.
• Train and support assigned paraprofessionals, and assist in developing their schedules to support students in the school setting.
• Utilize formative and summative assessments to evaluate student learning, achievement, and performance, and report results as required by District Policy and school procedures.
• Model and promote character education, including citizenship, responsible behavior, bullying prevention, conflict resolution, and work ethics.
• Provide safety instruction for students when activities or equipment pose potential harm, and ensure adherence to safety requirements.
• Maintain an orderly, positive learning environment by implementing proactive classroom management strategies and enforcing the Student Conduct Code. Supervise students to minimize disruptive or violent behavior and potential accidents.
• Maintain ongoing relationships with families to share information about the student's educational program and improve the home-school relationship.
• Develop and promote positive relations among the school community, including parents, staff, administration, and other community members.
• When necessary, work with the IEP Team to develop behavior support plans, health plans, safety plans, and/or crisis plans.
• Assist students with daily routines, including transportation, toileting, diapering, feeding, medical needs, and personal hygiene (e.g., working with trach, feeding tubes, and catheterization).
• Familiarize yourself with and abide by all applicable Federal and Colorado laws, Board of Education policies, District Regulations, and school procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional Requirements

• Ensure the safety and welfare of students, including necessary supervision at all times.
• Demonstrate faithfulness and promptness in attendance.
• Submit required reports promptly at specified times.
• Demonstrate care and protection of School District property.
• Report suspected child abuse or neglect as required by law.
• Use the District's internet and email system as specified in Policy.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned by the Principal, Superintendent, or their designees.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related subject from an accredited university (minimum requirement).
• Experience is preferred but not required for hiring.

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal relations and oral/written communication skills.
• Effective understanding of the IEP writing process, including standards alignment.
• Ability to develop and implement appropriate progress monitoring tools to assess student progress toward goals.
• Strong decision-making, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work with students with diverse needs at various levels.
• Ability to develop and implement accommodations and modifications that facilitate student mastery of the Colorado Academic Standards.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the job.
• Ability to promote and follow Board and District policies, Superintendent policies, and building/department procedures.
• Ability to communicate, interact, and work effectively and cooperatively in a team setting.
• Ability to recognize the importance of safety in the workplace, follow safety rules, practice safe work habits, and utilize appropriate safety equipment.

Materials and Equipment

• Microcomputers and general office equipment.
• IEP software.
• Microsoft Office applications.
• Student Information Systems.

Certifications & Licenses

• Colorado Teaching License with endorsements for the levels and subject areas teaching.
• Pass the PLACE or PRAXIS II Test.
• Meet CDE and ESSA requirements for In-Field Teacher in Special Education by the start date.
• Complete CPI training upon hire.

Schedule

10-month typical work year (school year).

Pay

Licensed Salary Schedule pay grade. This position includes a $900 one-time FTE pro-rated bonus for the 2026/2027 school year (bonus pro-rated for late start and FTE).