Special Education Teacher - Early Childhood

HIRING FOR 2026/2027 SCHOOL YEAR

RE-1 Valley School District is seeking a compassionate and collaborative early childhood special education teacher to support young learners ages up to 5 with diverse developmental needs. This position focuses on early intervention, individualized instruction, and partnership with families to build strong foundations for lifelong learning. We are looking for an educator who understands early childhood development and is committed to inclusive, play‑based, and developmentally appropriate practices.

Reports To: Preschool Director & Director of Student Services

Salary Range & Category: $44,000 – $65,853 on Teacher Salary Schedule

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Calendar: 167 days

FTE: 1.0. Full‑time with benefits; 4‑day school week (Tuesday – Friday)

The Early Childhood Special Education Teacher provides individualized instruction and case management services for children up to age 5 with disabilities. The position emphasizes early intervention, developmental skill‑building, family collaboration, and compliance with IDEA and state regulations.

Instruction & Student Support

• Develop and implement IEPs aligned to developmental goals
• Provide direct instruction in communication, social‑emotional skills, adaptive skills, motor development, and early academics
• Utilize developmentally appropriate, play‑based instructional strategies
• Adapt curriculum and classroom environment to meet diverse needs
• Implement behavior support plans as necessary

Case Management & Compliance

• Facilitate IEP meetings and maintain required documentation
• Monitor and report progress toward IEP goals
• Participate in child evaluations and re‑evaluations
• Ensure compliance with IDEA and state early childhood regulations

Collaboration & Family Engagement

• Communicate regularly with families regarding progress and strategies
• Collaborate with speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and other related service providers
• Participate in transition planning for kindergarten entry
• Support inclusive preschool practices

Student Safety & Care

• Follow district protocols for crisis prevention and intervention
• Maintain a structured, safe, and supportive learning environment
• Assist students with personal care needs, including hygiene, toileting, feeding, and mobility, as outlined in individual student plans
• Maintain student dignity, privacy, and confidentiality at all times
• Follow district health, safety, and training protocols when providing personal care support

Classroom Environment

• Create a safe, structured, and nurturing learning environment
• Teach self‑help and adaptive skills
• Supervise paraprofessionals assigned to the classroom

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain current licensure
• Participate in ongoing professional development
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with FERPA and IDEA
• Support district early childhood initiatives
• Comply with standard practices and ethical conduct toward information and information technology, students, professional colleagues, school officials, parents, and members of the community. Exemplify the highest standards of professional commitment

• Bachelor's or higher degree in Early Childhood Special Education preferred and will be given first consideration
• Able to attain a temporary educator eligibility license and work toward the requirements for Early Childhood Special Education. (Additional coursework required for eligibility toward a Colorado Teacher License is required or must be completed within an agreed‑upon timeframe)
• Currently hold a Colorado Substitute Teaching License if Teacher License is not completed
• Knowledge of IEP development and IDEA compliance
• Experience working with children ages up to 5
• Experience in inclusive preschool settings
• Knowledge of developmental screenings and early intervention practices
• CPI or crisis prevention training required
• Bilingual skills preferred

• Knowledge of elementary child development and diverse learning needs
• Understanding of IDEA, IEP processes, and compliance requirements
• Skill in delivering targeted, evidence‑based interventions
• Abil…