Job Description

"Our mission is to ensure that every student develops the enduring knowledge, skills, and character to thrive in a changing world."

Position: Special Education (Mild/Moderate) Teacher
School Year: 2026-2027
Location: Bridges High School
Reports to: Bridges High School Principal
Classification: Certified Exempt - Full-Time (1.0 FTE / 40 hours per week)
Contract Period: 185 working days.

Salary Range

• *$54,000 to $83,500 (Based on education and years of relevant teaching experience) *The annual salary listed above is based on a full-time, 8-hour workday (FTE 1) and a full working calendar. For positions with less than a full FTE or reduced hours, such as part-time or late-start positions, the salary will be prorated accordingly.Certified Salary Schedule
• Credentialed teaching experience outside the District or U.S. may be considered in salary placement. See ourSalary Placement Criteria for more information.

Benefits

• The Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) offers full district paid employee health benefits, including medical, life, voluntary vision, dental, and dependent coverage. Other benefits include, paid leave, CO PERA (pension plan) enrollment with district contribution, TSA options, employee assistance programs (EAP) and supplemental insurance. In addition, RFSD offers highly reduced and payroll deducted ski passes and an employee referral program. RFSD Benefits Guide
• RFSD prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying in all district activities. Read the district's full nondiscrimination statement online at https://go.boarddocs.com/co/rfsd/Board.nsf/goto-open&id=DBTU5S7A6CE2

About us

• With 14 schools and 5,600 students, the Roaring Fork School District is located in the culturally vibrant and naturally stunning Roaring Fork Valley serving the communities of Glenwood Springs, Carbondale, and Basalt. The Roaring Fork Schools believe that teachers are our most important asset, and our teachers enjoy a true teacher voice in decision-making; clear and collaborative leadership; small class sizes; a highly competitive and progressive salary schedule; access to our affordable housing program; and a culture of self-care and well-being. We believe diversity is a strength, and our staff makes a real difference for our students who come from different ethnicities, cultures, and socio-economic backgrounds.

• A high school special education teacher specializing in mild to moderate disabilities supports students with a variety of learning challenges that impact their academic progress but do not require intensive interventions. These students may have conditions such as mild intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or other developmental and cognitive differences that affect their learning and social interactions. This role requires a teacher who is patient, empathetic, and highly creative in developing individualized strategies to address the unique needs of each student. By providing tailored academic, social, and emotional support, the teacher plays a vital role in helping students with mild to moderate disabilities thrive and succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver lessons tailored to the needs of students with mild to moderate disabilities.
• Modify general education curriculum to meet the academic, behavioral, and social needs of students.
• Provide individualized support and accommodations to help students access the curriculum.
• Use various instructional strategies, such as visual aids, hands-on activities, and technology, to enhance learning.
• Regularly assess students' academic progress and adapt instruction based on assessment data.
• Collaborate with other educators and specialists to evaluate student performance.
• Maintain records of student progress and modify IEP (Individualized Education Plan) goals as necessary.
• Implement strategies for behavior management to help students develop appropriate social and emotional skills.
• Work with students on developing self-regulation and coping strategies.
• Support students with behavior challenges by providing positive reinforcement and structured routines.
• Collaborate with general education teachers to integrate students into mainstream classes when appropriate.
• Work with other specialists, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and school counselors, to provide comprehensive support.
• Communicate with parents and caregivers regularly to discuss progress, challenges, and strategies for support.
• Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs for students in collaboration with the IEP team (parents, specialists, administrators).
• Participate in IEP meetings, providing insights into student progress and advocating for the best accommodations and services for students.
• Provide emotional and academic support to help students build self-esteem and succeed.
• Advocate for the needs of students within the school environment and support inclusion efforts.
• Foster a positive classroom culture where all students feel valued and encouraged to participate.
• Experience working with students with mild to moderate disabilities, either through student teaching, internships, or prior positions.
• Ability to practice patience, adaptability, communication, empathy, classroom management, collaboration, and the ability to create a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Education and Licensing Guidelines

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Active Colorado teacher license, authorization, or the ability to obtain
• Special Education Generalist (ages 5-21) endorsement, or ability to obtain
• This position requires the completion of theREAD ACT Training
• Official transcripts must be provided upon hire. For international transcripts, an evaluation is required through a member organization of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)
• Visa candidates: An initial (3-year) license is the minimum requirement for employment offers

Physical Requirements

• May include, standing and walking for extended periods; bend, stoop, and lift materials; reach for supplies on high shelves; use manual dexterity for tasks like writing and using technology; communicate clearly and effectively with students; climb stairs in multi-level buildings.

We look forward to reviewing your application and hope to find a passionate counselor who will thrive in our supportive, collaborative school environment!