Job Description

Posting number: IKA 02135 8/10/2026

Department: Colorado Department of Human Services

Division: OCYF - Platte Valley Youth Services Center

Job classification: State Teacher I

Posting type: Open

Categories: Corrections, Mental Health, Education, Human Services, Health Education, Counseling, Professional Education, Community and Social Services, Rehabilitation Services

About the Division of Youth Services: The Division of Youth Services (DYS) provides a continuum of residential and non-residential services that encompass juvenile detention, commitment, and parole. DYS is the agency statutorily mandated to provide for the care and supervision of youth committed by the District Court to the custody of the Colorado Department of Human Services. The Division operates fifteen secure facilities that serve youth between the ages of 10 and 21, who are pre-adjudicated, sentenced, or committed. The Division also contracts with numerous private residential and non-residential service providers throughout the State. For pre-adjudicated youth, the Division is also responsible for the management and oversight of Colorado Youth Detention Continuum, a State-funded, locally administered program that provides services to youth at risk of further progressing into the juvenile justice system. In addition to residential programming, the Division administers juvenile parole services throughout the State.

We invite you to explore the DYS website and learn about the services provided to youth, families, and local communities in the State of Colorado at: https://www.colorado.gov/cdhs/dys

Examples of duties

The work unit exists to educate adjudicated youth in a positive learning environment that fosters high academic expectations, development of 21st century skills, vocational and work force readiness, individual responsibility for learning, and maintains a safe setting while providing special education, general education, and post secondary education. This work unit provides professional consultation to community programs and DYS facilities which serve DYS youth and establishes and maintains collaboration with internal and external stakeholders that provide, supplement, or monitor education services.

This position exists to provide career readiness learning through direct classroom instruction to include: reading and writing for the workforce, math and science learning for the workforce, history skills for the work force, business skills and technical skills for workforce related to fields of study to include: Career Technical Education pathways, Graphic Design, Business and Marketing, Hairstyling/Barbering or other related programming. The instructor takes responsibility for knowledge of current federal, state, and district standards in the area of community college competencies related to program area, CTE vocational program information from the State of Colorado, career exploration and post workforce readiness skills, transitional skills, secondary literacy and math content and related subjects important to learning and transitioning to careers or college literacy. Classroom content will align with CDE state standards and prepared graduate outcomes while also adhering to district initiatives and Social Emotional Learning topics to committed youth in secondary and post secondary tracks in a safe and trauma informed environment. Instructor must engage in the appropriate use of technology for teaching and learning and best practice and research in pedagogy and prosocial youth development. The instructor takes responsibility for having an active and appropriate CDE license or meeting substitution requirements.

Classroom Teacher

• Establishes and maintains an appropriate classroom setting through the use of effective classroom management skills and engagement strategies specific to student needs to include implementation of the PBIS system and behavior tools. Assesses new and continuing students using multiple assessment methods and collecting multiple pieces of evidence of learning. Prepares unit lesson plans and daily plans that are aligned with state standards and the critical skills needed; designs and implements a variety of assessment tools to evaluate student progress that correlate to standards-based education and with appropriate rigor. Implements a variety of research-based education strategies (including technology) to accommodate multi-age/multi-level students.
• Selects behavior and classroom management techniques to apply within the framework of DYS. Ensures effective accommodations are followed for special education students and student on special plans while also communicating growth and data needed for progress monitoring.
• Ensures that the DYS instructional framework is followed with daily learning objectives and relevant learning with appropriate assessments while meeting the needs of all youth; understand and use the instructional model. Ensure accurate educational records are in IC and/or Trails while meeting deadlines. Uses these skills for subbing in other classrooms as required. Use the technology appropriate and as expected to design, upload information and lessons while taking attendance daily and grading work appropriately

Meetings, Professional Development, and Progress Monitoring

• Meets informally and in scheduled meetings with the Central Education Office members, principal, treatment providers and other teachers to review student and school progress. Develop comprehensive plans for implementation of the subject matter in line with the education goals and in alignment with school development plans and quality standards. Participate in professional and staff safety development and apply learning accordingly. Assure appropriate boundaries and effective presentation in the classroom and workplace. Use data effectively and with MTSS processes, progress monitoring, educational advocacy, and multidisciplinary team meetings (MDT). Monthly reviews of content to principal.

Supportive to Culture and Safety of Facility.

• Assist in the safety and security of the school and facility by supervising residents, tools, and materials effectively and providing immediate assistance as necessary within the facility. Consistently knowing and following policy and procedures of the Division of Youth Services and the facility as well as safety procedures for classrooms and youth. Adhere to the trauma-informed culture and expectations. Know and use Motivational Interviewing, Sanctuary Model to include small group processes and Restorative Justice language and frameworks; follow expectations for IRs. Adhere to Code of Conduct and professional norms of behavior. Follow leave policy and procedures.

And Other Duties as Assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a field of study related to the work assignment.

• Current, valid Initial or Professional Teacher license issued by the Colorado Department of Education.

Substitutions:

• Current, valid Interim Teacher license, or Temporary Educator Eligibility Authorization will substitute for the Colorado Initial or Professional Teacher license.
• The educational and experience requirements of the Colorado Community College System for a vocational credential will substitute for the degree and license requirements. (Transcripts and EVIDENCE OF OCCUPATIONAL EXPERIENCE must be attached to be considered for this substitution.)
• U.S. Service Member Applicants may meet content knowledge and experience requirements of the CTE per Colorado Department of Education, as follows:
  • U.S. Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy or Space Force members: three or more years’ active duty
  • Guard/Reserves: 10 years’ experience, or five years’ experience with 12 months active-duty deployment
    • Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), time of service and an honorable discharge must be verified on a DD214 member copy 4 (submitted in application)

Preferred Candidates will possess the following qualifications:

• Professional work experience relevant to teaching hands-on skills and/or work readiness.
• Program development experience
• Experience with programming for post secondary and secondary youth
• Experience working with at-risk or adjudicated youth
• Proficient use of data to inform instructional practice
• Trauma-Informed practices and knowledge as it applies to at risk populations and classroom instruction
• Community and work related experience relevant to current job market Relevant years of state service
  
  

• Experience with implementing articulated systems and structures with fidelity
• Understandings of classroom-based behavioral interventions
• Able to build rapport with students while maintaining boundaries
• Experience with urban and at-risk populations
• Education and Training
• Interpersonal Skills
• Oral Communication
• Oral Comprehension
• Problem Sensitivity & Solving
• Ability to adhere to Safety and Security protocols
• Technology enhanced instruction

Highly Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated knowledge in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Attention to detail.
• Strong decision-making skills and follow through.
• Ability to positively and professionally interact with administrators, staff, parents, clients, community members and the judicial system.
• Ability to collaboratively problem solve, ask for and use feedback, and create positive culture and climate.

Conditions of Employment:

• Full Background - CBI name check and fingerprint check, ICON Colorado court database, Medicare fraud database, Reference checks, Professional License Verification (if applicable), Drug Screen, PREA (Division of Youth Services Only), For those with direct contact with children: Trails check and DIANA Screener - For those with direct contact with adults at the Mental Health Institutes, Regional Centers and Veterans Community Living Centers: CAPS.
• Must be 21 years old or older.
• This position requires State of Colorado residency at the time of application (unless otherwise identified in the posting), and residency within the state throughout the duration of employment in this position.
  Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) Check.
• Must possess a valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver’s License
• Travel - Must travel to training events and shadowing events in Denver area and other state facilities.
• Continued employment is contingent upon successful completion of the DYS Pre-service Training Academy, Field Training Program (FTO) and mandatory annual training in all subject areas.
• Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must:
  • Disclose that information on the application.
  • Explain why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify you from the current position.
  • Provide your employee number from your prior State employment. Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDHS.
    
    

CDHS Selection Process Explanation.

• Employment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40/hrs per week). Part-time employment is calculated on a prorated basis to determine qualifications. Be sure your application specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work products, and accomplishments as they relate to the position and minimum requirements.

Minimum Qualification Screening Process

• A Human Resources Analyst will review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether your experience meets the minimum qualifications for the position. You must complete the official State of Colorado online application. Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be reviewed during the minimum qualifications screening process.
• You must specifically document your work experience and qualifications. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached."
• You must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process. Part-time work experience will be prorated.
  

Comparative Analysis Process – Structured Application Review

• After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process will involve a review and rating of all the information you submit.
  

Your Work Experience/Job Duties

• Document your work experience/job duties to the extent to which you possess the skills, education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications.
• If listed, answer all supplemental questions as your answers to these questions will be evaluated during this phase. Provide at least 4-8 sentences for each supplemental question.
  
  

Supplemental Questions

• Answer the supplemental questions completely and thoughtfully. We will rate your answers based on the content of your response and your writing skills (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing).
  

Appeal Rights:
You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated. You will find the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it on the State Personnel Board website.

• You or your representative must sign and submit the official appeal form for review.
• You can find the official appeal form here.
• You must be deliver the official appeal form to the State Personnel Board:
  • By email ( dpa_state.personnelboard@state.co.us), or
  • Postmarked in US Mail to(1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203, or
  • Hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or
  • Faxed (303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department’s action.
    
    
    

Contact the State Personnel Board for assistance:

• At (303) 866-3300, or
• Refer to the Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, within the Rules webpage.
  

Supplemental information

How to Apply

Need help with your application? Click here.

The Assessment Process

For additional recruiting questions, please contact Isaac.Phelps@state.co.us

About Us & Benefits

If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of the people of Colorado. Each of us is committed to contributing to a safe and accessible CDHS In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:

• Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans

• Medical and dental health plans

• Employer supplemented Health Savings Account

• Paid life insurance

• Short- and long-term disability coverage

• 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave

• State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center

• Employee Wellness program

• Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more

• Remote work arrangements for eligible positions

• *Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Our Values

• We believe in a people-first approach: We prioritize the needs, well-being, and dignity of the individuals, families and communities we serve. We commit to respect, fairness and access in every decision, policy and interaction. We engage client voices and experiences in the development and implementation of the services we provide.

• Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement.

• We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado.

• Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public.

• We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy.

• Collaboration helps us rise together:We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans.

ADA Accommodations

• CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment.

• This includes completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or performing essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to cdhs_ada@state.co.us

EEO Statement: The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer

• We are committed to increasing a “Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. The State of Colorado believes that a “Colorado for ALL” drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

Additional Support For Your Application Toll Free Applicant Technical Support

• If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at 855-524-5627 Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application 1) ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and 2) close the document before you attempt to upload (attach) it.