A Special Education Teacher teaches students who have disabilities, and adapts teaching methods to meet the needs of students. Assesses students and helps to develop individualized education plans that specify the services and accommodations needed for each student. Works in a classroom that includes only students with IEPs, or works with students and teachers in regular classes. For students with severe disabilities, may focus on developing skills for independent living. Works as part of a team that includes therapists, school counselors or social workers.
Special Education Teacher Resource Hopkins Public Schools - 3.7 Hopkins, MN Job Details Full-time $51,000 - $60,228 a year 22 hours ago Benefits Union benefits Qualifications Culturally responsive teaching (DEI initiatives) English writing skills instruction Teaching Certification English Training material drafting Physical assistance for special education students Learning styles adaptability Driver's License Desktop applications Computer skills Grammar Experience Special Education Certification Adaptive instruction Parent-teacher conferences (communication methods) Personalized learning curriculum development Educational content composition projects
Full Job Description JobID:
7023
Position Type:
Teacher/Special Education Teacher Date Posted:
8/6/2026
Location:
Gatewood Elementary At Hopkins Public Schools, we believe that our strength lies in the diversity of our students, staff, and community. We are a proudly inclusive E-12 district serving approximately 7,200 students across the City of Hopkins and surrounding communities. Our district represents a rich mosaic of cultures, backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences; we value and celebrate that diversity in everything we do. As an academically rigorous and human-centered district, we are committed to fostering a welcoming environment where every student and staff member feels seen, heard, and valued. There is no "typical" Hopkins student, and we embrace this truth as a catalyst for innovation, growth, and equity in learning. We seek educators and staff who are equity-minded, culturally responsive, and deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where all learners can thrive. We welcome candidates who are passionate about dismantling systemic barriers, advancing justice, and preparing students to become bold, collaborative, and compassionate global citizens. When you join Hopkins Public Schools, you are not just joining a district, you are becoming part of a community that honors difference, nurtures potential, and inspires remarkable achievement in every learner, from birth through graduation. You are welcome at Hopkins. You belong at Hopkins.
SUMMARY:
Creates a classroom environment which fosters learning and personal growth; motivates pupils to develop skills, attitudes and knowledge needed to provide an excellent education, in accordance with each pupil's ability.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
This class specification lists the major duties and requirements of the job and is not all-inclusive. Incumbent(s) may be expected to perform job-related duties other than those contained in this document and may be required to have specific job-related knowledge and skills. Develops lesson plans and instructional materials; provides individualized and small group instruction to adapt the curriculum to the needs of each pupil. Teaches district-approved curriculum. Translates lesson plans into developmentally appropriate learning experiences. Establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior to achieve an effective learning atmosphere. Evaluates pupils' academic and social growth, keeps appropriate records and in a timely fashion prepares progress reports. Communicates this information regularly with parents. Identifies pupil needs and makes appropriate referrals and develops strategies for individual education plans. Provides individualized and small group instruction to adapt the curriculum to the needs of the student. Maintains a professional day, as defined by school building and contract. Communicates regularly with parents outside normal classroom day by means of newsletters, notes, phone calls, e-mails, and conferences. Plans and coordinates the work of paraprofessionals and volunteers in the classroom and on field trips. Works in a supportive and collaborative manner with colleagues and supervisors. Maintains and improves professional skills by participating in building and department meetings, formal coursework, workshops and seminars to stay current with best teaching practices. Participates in a personal professional goal-setting process on a regular basis. Utilizes assessment and evaluation for the purpose of developing IEP goals and aligning instruction to the individual student needs in a special education classroom setting. Collaborates with regular education teachers in the development of modified and accommodated curriculum to promote student access to the mainstream classroom setting Promotes and supports the overall mission of the District by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with public and staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree in education, or a closely related field.
Required Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:
Continued employment is contingent upon all required licenses and certificates being maintained in active status without suspension or revocation. Driver's license.
Classroom management techniques. Best practices and strategies and teaching for varying learning styles and needs. Minnesota State Standards. Instructional design for students with educational needs in reading and writing, including the delivery of an alternative English curriculum. District policies and procedures. Disabilities and accommodations. Computer applications related to the work. Correct business English, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Required Skills:
Creating and administering individualized lesson plans. Interpreting, and applying state and Federal statutes, codes, rules, and regulations. Assessing and prioritizing multiple tasks, projects and demands. Operating a personal computer using standard and specialized software. Communicating effectively verbally and in writing. Contributing effectively to the accomplishment of team or work unit goals, objectives and activities. Commitment to the District mission, which is to ensure high quality, innovative, challenging education where all learners are valued and respected. Performing assigned responsibilities in a manner consistent with the District's established Core Values. Advancing the District's mission and values through careful attention to the key issues of Learning, Environment, and Resources.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work is performed in a school environment, using standard equipment and stamina to sit for extended periods of time; strength to lift and carry up to 20 pounds; vision to read printed materials and computer screens; and hearing and speech to communicate in person or over the telephone.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in a school setting. Occasional travel required to locations throughout the District.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Develop and implement individualized lesson plans aligned with students' IEP goals. Utilize evidence-based instructional strategies tailored to diverse learning styles and developmental levels. Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment that supports students' academic, social, and emotional development. Assess student progress and adjust instruction to maximize learning outcomes. Provide direct instruction in life skills, functional academics, and communication development. Collaborate with general education teachers, support staff, and families to ensure student success and opportunities for inclusion. Establish and maintain behavioral expectations that promote student engagement and independence. Maintain accurate and timely documentation of student progress, IEP implementation, and required reports. Plan and coordinate the work of paraprofessionals and classroom support staff. Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in special education. Communicate effectively with parents and guardians through regular updates, conferences, and collaborative problem-solving. Support the mission and values of the school district through professional and ethical conduct. Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field. Experience working with students with developmental disabilities, including those with severe and profound needs, preferred. Valid Minnesota Teaching License in Special Education Licensure in Developmental Disabilities or DCD-SP Valid driver's license (if applicable for job duties). Strong understanding of instructional strategies for students with developmental disabilities. Knowledge of IEP development, progress monitoring, and data-driven decision-making. Experience with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and assistive technology. Ability to differentiate instruction based on student strengths and needs. Familiarity with positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS). Effective collaboration and teamwork with educators, therapists, and families. Proficiency in using technology for instruction and data collection. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Work is performed in a school setting with occasional travel within the district. Requires physical ability to assist students with mobility, transfers, and adaptive equipment as needed. Requires standing, sitting, and participating in student activities throughout the school day.
Hours & Compensation:
1.0 - FTE - 185
Days HEA Union Contract Range:
BA, Step 0: $51,000.00 MA, Step 0: $60,228.00 Position specific Benefits information is available HERE Union Contracts, Position Handbook/Agreements are located HERE
