Special Education Teacher - Resource (LTS)
About the Role
Teach curriculum of Independent School District 196. This is a long-term substitute (LTS) position with an anticipated duration from the beginning of the 2026-27 school year until November 24, 2026.
Responsibilities
- Develop and demonstrate culturally responsive practices that lead to equitable outcomes for all students, particularly those groups over-represented in special education.
- Demonstrate proactive response to support students with emotional regulation difficulties.
- Provide instruction in strategies to support students in developing social-emotional skills for success.
- Demonstrate current knowledge of various forms of assistive technology to support students in accessing appropriate tools for efficiency.
- Employ high expectations for students using a variety of instructional techniques and instructional media.
- Collaborate with others to plan, teach, and support students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment.
- Advocate for students with disabilities to ensure high levels of achievement.
- Promote and develop strong communication and collaboration with staff, parents, and other professionals.
- Carry out responsibilities as defined by the master contract.
- Facilitate, write, and implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and Behavior Support Plans.
- Collaborate with nursing staff to support and perform necessary delegated health tasks.
- Direct the work of paraprofessionals and train/support them effectively.
- Conduct comprehensive evaluations and implement best practices in special education, including sensory activities, positive behavior support, and academic instruction.
Requirements
- Licensed by the Minnesota Department of Education in ABS, ASD, EBD, DD, or LD (Dual special education licensure preferred).
- Strong general education background.
- Experience working with and providing service to persons of diverse cultures, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Evidence of a growth mindset and ability to accelerate growth in academic and social-emotional skills using a strengths-based model.
- Ability to work efficiently, effectively, and cooperatively with multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to relate positively to students, staff, and community.
- Experience working in a school setting or with children ages birth through 21.
- Ability to follow directions and procedures and facilitate collaborative teaming around students.
- Thorough understanding of the laws, rules, and regulations of special education.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Valid driver's license or ability to provide travel for self between locations.
Benefits
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Life insurance
- Long-term disability insurance
- Sick leave
- State pension plan
- Tax-deferred retirement savings account
- Flexible spending account
- Some employee groups receive vacation, holidays, or personal leave
Benefits are available to new employees effective the first day of active employment if benefit eligible. Compensation is according to the contractual agreement.
About the District
District 196 is a Minnesota public school district of choice, serving more than 29,000 students and 160,000 residents in the cities of Rosemount, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Coates, Empire, Inver Grove Heights, Lakeville, and Vermillion Township. The district is the third largest in Minnesota and among the largest employers in Dakota County, with more than 4,000 full- and part-time employees.
Our team of dedicated educators is committed to the mission of educating, developing, and inspiring our students for lifelong success. Our core values are student-centered, based in empathy and integrity to support the wellbeing of the whole person, and learning with high expectations for all. Our culture of collaboration fosters an environment of inclusivity, engagement, and belonging for all students, inspiring a love of learning for all ages.
The district operates 20 elementary schools (grades K-5), six middle schools (grades 6-8), four high schools (grades 9-12), an optional School of Environmental Studies for juniors and seniors, an Area Learning Center high school program, a K-12 special education school, and a special education program serving young adults ages 18-21. It also operates three learning centers providing early childhood and Adult Basic Education services and offers extensive community education programs.