Teacher - Special Education

Position Overview

Sahuarita Unified School District is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Special Education Teacher to support students with diverse learning needs. This role serves as both an educator and case manager, working collaboratively with families, general education teachers, and support staff to ensure each student receives an individualized, inclusive, and supportive educational experience.

Key Responsibilities

Student Support & Case Management

• Serve as case manager for assigned students, coordinating the development, implementation, and monitoring of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
• Organize and lead Special Education team meetings to review, update, and revise IEPs as required
• Maintain accurate, confidential student records in compliance with district and federal requirements
• Collaborate with administrators, specialists, paraprofessionals, and families to support student success

Instruction & Classroom Support

• Assess student needs and develop, implement, and evaluate individualized lesson plans
• Adapt curriculum and instructional strategies to meet diverse learning needs
• Work closely with Special Education paraprofessionals to implement IEP goals and instructional plans
• Support inclusion by assisting general education teachers with accommodations and instructional strategies

Classroom Management & Student Well-Being

• Create and maintain a safe, respectful, and supportive classroom environment
• Monitor and manage student behavior across school settings, including classrooms, common areas, field trips, and school activities
• Use effective classroom management strategies and positive reinforcement to encourage learning and appropriate behavior

Communication & Collaboration

• Maintain ongoing communication with parents and families regarding student progress and support strategies
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and school-based initiatives
• Serve as an advocate for students while fostering collaboration among all stakeholders

Administrative & Professional Duties

• Evaluate student progress and document performance toward IEP and curriculum goals
• Order classroom supplies and instructional materials as needed
• Maintain compliance with district policies, procedures, and timelines
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Valid Arizona Teaching Certification
• Special Education Endorsement on teaching certificate (or equivalent education/training)
• Highly Qualified status per federal standards in assigned instructional area
• Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, sit, and use hands for instructional and administrative tasks
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or balance as needed
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 30 pounds
• Vision abilities including close vision, peripheral vision, and focus adjustment

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Commitment & Professional Expectations

• Strong collaboration and teamwork skills
• Dedication to providing high-quality, student-centered services
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
• Sound judgment, professionalism, and dependability
• Willingness to adhere to district policies and procedures

Work Environment & Tools

• Indoor classroom setting with activity across school campus and community environments
• Regular interaction with students, families, colleagues, and the public
• Use of instructional and office technology, including computers, projectors, and classroom tools

Supervision & Evaluation

• Performance evaluated in accordance with Governing Board policy
• Reports directly to school/site administration
• May supervise paraprofessionals, aides, and classroom volunteers