Elementary Special Education Teacher

$5000 Recruitment Incentive for certified staff new to APS

Student Loan Repayment Assistance

Teacher Housing Available - Limited Number on a First-Come, First-Served Basis

80% of Medical and Dental Premiums Paid by the District

Beginning Date: August 7, 2026

Job Description: Elementary Special Education Teacher

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Current New Mexico Public Education Department PK-12 Special Education license.

Position Summary: The Special Education Teacher supports students with disabilities in general education classrooms by collaborating with general education teachers, implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), and providing accommodations and modifications to ensure all students can access the curriculum. This role requires a strong understanding of differentiated instruction, behavior management strategies, and co-teaching models.

Reports To: Principal/Special Education Director

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Instruction & Student Support:

• Co-teach and collaborate with general education teachers to implement IEP goals and accommodations.
• Provide differentiated instruction tailored to individual student needs.
• Develop and implement behavior management strategies.
• Support students with disabilities in accessing grade-level curriculum.
• Use data-driven decision-making to track student progress and adjust instruction.

• Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs in compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Conduct assessments and participate in IEP meetings.
• Maintain accurate and confidential student records.

• Work closely with general education teachers, paraprofessionals, and related service providers (e.g., speech therapists, occupational therapists).
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress and challenges.
• Participate in professional development and team meetings.

• Foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
• Implement Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) or similar frameworks.
• Utilize assistive technology and adaptive equipment as needed.

• Strong understanding of differentiated instruction
• Experience with IEP development and implementation
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills.
• Patience, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities.

Physical Requirements: Ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods. Frequent bending, kneeling, and lifting up to 25 pounds. Ability to assist students with mobility challenges (e.g., pushing wheelchairs, helping students transfer). Fine motor skills for assisting with writing, technology use, and adaptive equipment. Ability to handle occasional physical interventions for student safety if trained.

Work Environment: General education classrooms, special education resource rooms, and outdoor areas. Moderate noise levels typical of a school setting. Potential exposure to bodily fluids.

Work Schedule: 184 Day Contract

How To Apply: Complete the entire application ONLINE to be considered for this position. Provide complete reference information for each reference including name, address, contact number, and email address. Resume and reference letters are optional. Current employees of the Artesia Public Schools may apply as an Internal applicant.

Requirements: The applicant, if selected, MUST undergo a FBI Fingerprint Background Report

Equal Employment Opportunity: Discrimination against an otherwise qualified individual with a disability or any individual by reason of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, or national origin is prohibited. Efforts will be made in recruitment and employment to ensure equal opportunity in employment for all qualified persons. If due to a disability, you are currently unable to perform any of the job duties identified in this job description, advise the personnel department of that condition. The personnel department will make a determination whether a reasonable accommodation can be made in these job duties and procedures to address that disability.

* Reference email addresses are required *