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

Position: Significant Support Needs Special Education (SSN) Teacher
School Year: 2026-2027
Location: Crystal River Elementary School
Reports to: Crystal River Elementary School Principal
Classification: Certified Exempt - Full-Time (1.0 FTE / 40 hours per week)  
Contract Period: 185 working days.

Salary Range

• *$56,809 - $89,509 (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 our Salary 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.

Position Overview

• The Special Education (Significant Support Needs) Teacher is responsible for providing specialized instructional support to students with significant intellectual, developmental, and/or physical disabilities. These students require individualized instruction, specialized interventions, and a highly structured environment to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. The role involves designing and delivering tailored educational programs, fostering a positive and inclusive classroom atmosphere, and working closely with families, staff, and other professionals to support the diverse needs of each student.

Education and Licensing Guidelines

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Active Colorado teacher license, authorization, or the ability to obtain
• Endorsement as Special Education Generalist (K-12 or Ages 5-21), or ability to obtain
• Completion of READ Act requirements
• 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

Desired Qualifications

• Develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to meet the unique academic and functional needs of students with significant disabilities.
• Adapt curriculum and teaching strategies to ensure accessibility and accommodate the specific learning needs of each student.
• Use specialized materials, technology, and teaching methods to support students in accessing the general education curriculum as appropriate.
• Provide behavior management strategies and interventions to help students develop social skills, self-regulation, and appropriate behaviors.
• Implement positive behavior support plans (PBSPs) and work with students on developing life skills that support independence and integration into the school community.
• Foster a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where students feel safe, valued, and respected.
• Work closely with other special education teachers, paraprofessionals, general education teachers, and therapists to ensure a holistic approach to student education and well-being.
• Collaborate with families to communicate progress, discuss strategies for at-home support, and address any concerns related to student development.
• Contribute to the development of goals and objectives, and monitor progress on a regular basis.
• Conduct regular assessments to monitor students' progress toward their IEP goals and adjust instructional methods and strategies accordingly.
• Use data to identify areas of need and inform decision-making for instruction, accommodations, and supports.
• Document and maintain accurate records of students' academic and behavioral progress to ensure compliance with district and state requirements.
• Provide direct instruction in functional life skills, including self-care, communication, and community-based learning.
• Teach students skills for daily living, such as managing personal hygiene, social interaction, basic financial literacy, and independent living tasks.
• Encourage the development of skills that will support students in transitioning to adulthood, including work readiness and community involvement.
• Maintain a highly structured and supportive classroom environment to ensure students can thrive.
• Develop clear and consistent routines, expectations, and transitions to help students feel comfortable and reduce anxiety.
• Support students with transitions between activities, settings, and peers, as many students with significant needs require additional assistance with change.

Core Competencies

• Knowledge of specialized instructional strategies and adaptations for students with significant disabilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams of professionals, parents, and students.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, particularly in developing relationships with students and families.
• Patience, empathy, and a deep commitment to student success and well-being.
• Understanding of behavior management techniques and strategies for students with complex needs.
• Ability to connect with students with significant needs and offer consistent support in a compassionate, caring manner.
• Able to modify teaching methods and strategies based on the individual needs of each student.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively with other teachers, specialists, and families.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple IEPs, progress tracking, and documentation while ensuring all students receive appropriate attention and support.
• Able to navigate the challenges that come with working with students with complex needs while remaining focused on student growth and well-being.

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 special education educator who will thrive in our supportive, collaborative school environment!