Middle School SPED Teacher (2026-2027)

Middle School SPED Teacher Job Description The Middle School Special Education (SPED) Teacher serves as both an instructional leader and case manager, responsible for delivering specialized instruction and ensuring full compliance with special education laws and procedures. This role develops and implements Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), monitors student progress, and provides targeted interventions to support academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth. The SPED Teacher collaborates closely with general education staff, families, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure students with disabilities have equitable access to rigorous, standards-aligned instruction. This position requires strong data analysis, communication, and organizational skills to support a diverse student population, including multilingual learners.

Reporting Relationships:

Reports to: Middle School Principal and/or

Middle School Assistant Principal Direct Reports:

This is a non-supervisory position.

Application Deadline:

The application deadline for this posting is 5/11/2026.

Compensation :

This is a full-time, 10-month position. Salaries start at $61,464 and go up based on education and years of licensed experience. Click here to see the Licensed Special Education Teacher Salary Schedule, which can also be found on the school's website under 'Financial Transparency.' See a detailed outline of benefits and additional compensation at the bottom of the job description.

Essential Functions:

Classroom Instruction and Learning Environment:

Deliver high-quality, standards-aligned instruction using differentiated and specialized instructional practices. Adapt curriculum, pacing, and instructional strategies to meet diverse learner needs, including students with disabilities and multilingual learners. Implement research-based interventions in reading, writing, and mathematics through both push-in and pull-out service models . Establish and maintain a structured, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment aligned with PBIS expectations. Clearly communicate daily learning targets and success criteria to students. Monitor student engagement and adjust instruction to maximize learning outcomes. Adapt curriculum and instructional strategies to meet the learning needs of all students. Identify and develop lesson plans aligned to the Colorado Academic Standards, incorporating accommodations and specially designed instruction.

Utilize The PBIS Model for:

Relationship Building, Respect, and Responsibility; to foster a positive classroom environment. Data-Driven Instruction & Progress Monitoring Analyze multiple data sources (MAP, CMAS, classroom assessments, progress monitoring tools) to inform instruction and intervention. Continuously monitor and document student progress toward academic and functional goals. Use formative and summative assessment data to refine instructional practices and interventions. Maintain accurate and compliant records of student performance and progress. Administer and utilize formative and summative assessments to identify students who are at-risk, on grade level, or advanced, and adjust instruction accordingly. Analyze and interpret student data to provide targeted, differentiated instruction.

Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities:

Collaborate with general education teachers, SPED staff, related service providers, and administration to support student success. Participate actively in PLCs, MTSS processes, and data team meetings. Communicate regularly and effectively with families regarding student progress and supports. Contribute to the development of school-wide instructional goals aligned to the Unified Improvement Plan (UIP). Engage in ongoing professional development to strengthen instructional and compliance practices. Special Education Compliance & Instructional Responsibilities Ensure all services are delivered in alignment with IDEA, Colorado Department of Education (CDE), and district requirements. Support implementation of accommodations, modifications, and specially designed instruction as outlined in IEPs. Maintain compliance with timelines, documentation, and procedural safeguards. Support evaluation processes and eligibility determination in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team. Implement and monitor Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and support student social-emotional development. SPED Case Management (Core Responsibilities) Serve as the primary case manager for an assigned caseload (approximately 25-35 students), ensuring all legal and instructional requirements are met. Develop, write, and maintain high-quality, legally defensible IEPs aligned to student needs and data. Plan, schedule, and facilitate annual and triennial IEP meetings, ensuring compliance with timelines and meaningful parent participation. Coordinate and lead communication among families, general education teachers, service providers, and administration. Conduct and contribute to academic and functional evaluations, including data collection, analysis, and reporting. Interpret assessment and progress monitoring data to inform IEP development and instructional decision-making aligned with IDEA and Colorado standards. Monitor and document progress toward IEP goals, ensuring timely and accurate reporting. Track and ensure delivery of IEP service minutes, maintaining compliance with service logs and documentation. Collaborate with MTSS teams to support intervention planning and determine eligibility for special education services. Coordinate services across settings (push-in, pull-out, and general education environments). Maintain organized, audit-ready student records and documentation. Proactively problem-solve and adjust supports based on student performance and needs. Evaluate and document students' academic, behavioral, and functional progress; maintain accurate records and prepare progress reports aligned to IEP goals. Family Advocacy & Partnership Build strong, trusting relationships with families through consistent, transparent, and culturally responsive communication. Serve as a primary advocate for students and families, ensuring their voice is represented in the IEP process. Provide guidance to families on navigating special education services, supports, and procedural safeguards. Facilitate meaningful family participation in IEP meetings and decision-making processes. Partner with families to reinforce academic, behavioral, and social-emotional goals at home and school. Behavior & Social-Emotional Supports Implement and monitor Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) with fidelity. Utilize proactive classroom management strategies aligned with PBIS to support positive student behavior. Teach and reinforce social-emotional skills, self-regulation, and executive functioning. Collaborate with counseling staff, school psychologist and behavior teams to support students with intensive behavioral needs. Use behavior data to inform interventions and adjust supports as needed. Transition Planning (Middle High School Readiness) Support students in developing academic, organizational, and self-advocacy skills necessary for high school success. Collaborate with high school staff to ensure smooth transitions for students with IEPs. Incorporate transition goals into IEPs where appropriate, focusing on independence and long-term success. Prepare students and families for changes in expectations, services, and graduation pathways. Support executive functioning and AVID-aligned strategies to promote college and career readiness. Support for High

ELL/SPED

Population Deliver language-rich, scaffolded instruction that supports both content mastery and language development. Collaborate with ELD staff to align supports for multilingual learners with disabilities. Integrate EL Achieve language functions and WIDA-aligned strategies into instruction and IEP development. Differentiate instruction to support listening, speaking, reading, and writing across content areas. Ensure accommodations and supports reflect both language acquisition and disability-related needs. Monitor progress in both academic and language domains to inform instruction and services.

Additionally:

Be present and engage in Pinnacle functions and organizations to build strong relationships with students, parents, peers, and the community. Maintain and deepen current educational learning on an ongoing basis. Regular and timely attendance. Perform other duties as assigned.

General Abilities, Knowledge, Qualifications, and Skills:

Must possess a valid Colorado Special Education Teaching License with endorsements for the levels and subject areas teaching; mastery of subject matter coupled with a passion to engage and motivate students. Facilitates an innovative classroom environment for students to construct their own learning opportunities using communication, creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, design thinking, engineering, and problem-solving. Comfortable embracing and using education-related technology. Excellent classroom management skills. Innovator with an entrepreneurial drive committed to new ideas in the spirit of charter school possibilities. Knowledge in the use student performance data to drive instructional practices. Ability to collaborate and communicate while appreciating the diverse background of students, parents, peers, and the community. Ability to recognize the importance of safety in the workplace, follow safety rules, practice safe work habits, utilize appropriate safety equipment and report unsafe conditions to the appropriate administrator. Commitment to mission and vision of the school. Creative and flexible in time of change. Demonstrated success as an innovator of creative solutions at work. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent oral and written communication skills, interpersonal skills (conflict management and resolution). Excellent organization skills. Experience with second language learners. Growth-oriented approach; always looking for ways to improve professionally. Professional appearance, attitude, and demeanor.

Working Conditions:

Exposure/Noise Level:

Occasional exposure to airborne particles, fumes, and outdoor weather conditions. Normal school environment with moderate to high noise level.

Mental Functions:

Analyze, collaboration, communicate, compare, compilation of data, compute, coordinate, copy, direct, evaluate, instruct, interpersonal skills, present, report, synthesize.

Physical Activities:

Office environment including computer interface. Bend, reach, sit, stand, stoop, talk, walk, and heavy person-to-person interaction with students, parents, peers, and community members.

Weight and Force Demands :

Moderate physical activity (lifting, pulling, and pushing up to 25 pounds).

Other :

May be required to work outside of normal working hours and travel for work related functions. Why work for Pinnacle? As a member of the Pinnacle PACK, you will have the opportunity to be influential every day and make an impact in the lives of our students and our larger community! Our team and school community are diverse and we embrace that diversity as an encouraging, friendly, open, and supportive team and school. We invest in our team members by providing a balanced, growth-oriented, and supportive work environment, while helping you achieve your career goals within and beyond Pinnacle. Additionally, we offer a robust, comprehensive benefits package that includes: Medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance and AD&D plans (100% employer paid options for the employee)! Participation in the Colorado Public Schools Retirement System PERA (click HERE to learn more)! PERA 401K, 403B, and Roth IRA retirement options! Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) to include Healthcare and Dependent Care! Voluntary life insurance for employees and dependents! Short and Long Term Disability! Colonial add-ons to include accident, critical illness, and hospital plans! Employee Assistance Program with up to three free counseling sessions!

Paid Time Off PTO Days:

8/year If you want to be part of a caring, supportive community and make a difference as part of the Pinnacle PACK, apply now!

About Pinnacle:

Pinnacle Charter School has served the community for more than 20 years. Authorized by the Colorado Charter School Institute, the Pinnacle is a Title I K-12 school supporting more than 2,000 students in achieving excellence in all aspects of their lives. The K-8 building is located at 1001 West 84th Avenue, Federal Heights, CO. The high school is located at 8412 Huron Street, Thornton, CO.

For more information visit https:

//www.pinnaclecharterschool.org/ . Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. Pinnacle Charter School is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to a drug free work environment. We participate in E-Verify as part of our onboarding process.

Colorado Residents:

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information. Middle School SPED Teacher (2026-2027) 2.5 2.5 out of 5 stars Federal Heights, CO $61,464

• $96,378 a year
• Full-time The Pinnacle Charter School 29 reviews $61,464
• $96,378 a year
• Full-time Middle School SPED Teacher Job Description The Middle School Special Education (SPED) Teacher serves as both an instructional leader and case manager, responsible for delivering specialized instruction and ensuring full compliance with special education laws and procedures.

This role develops and implements Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), monitors student progress, and provides targeted interventions to support academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth. The SPED Teacher collaborates closely with general education staff, families, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure students with disabilities have equitable access to rigorous, standards-aligned instruction. This position requires strong data analysis, communication, and organizational skills to support a diverse student population, including multilingual learners.

Reporting Relationships:

Reports to: Middle School Principal and/or

Middle School Assistant Principal Direct Reports:

This is a non-supervisory position.

Application Deadline:

The application deadline for this posting is 5/11/2026.

Compensation :

This is a full-time, 10-month position. Salaries start at $61,464 and go up based on education and years of licensed experience. Click here to see the Licensed Special Education Teacher Salary Schedule, which can also be found on the school's website under 'Financial Transparency.' See a detailed outline of benefits and additional compensation at the bottom of the job description.

Essential Functions:

Classroom Instruction and Learning Environment:

Deliver high-quality, standards-aligned instruction using differentiated and specialized instructional practices. Adapt curriculum, pacing, and instructional strategies to meet diverse learner needs, including students with disabilities and multilingual learners. Implement research-based interventions in reading, writing, and mathematics through both push-in and pull-out service models . Establish and maintain a structured, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment aligned with PBIS expectations. Clearly communicate daily learning targets and success criteria to students. Monitor student engagement and adjust instruction to maximize learning outcomes. Adapt curriculum and instructional strategies to meet the learning needs of all students. Identify and develop lesson plans aligned to the Colorado Academic Standards, incorporating accommodations and specially designed instruction.

Utilize The PBIS Model for:

Relationship Building, Respect, and Responsibility; to foster a positive classroom environment. Data-Driven Instruction & Progress Monitoring Analyze multiple data sources (MAP, CMAS, classroom assessments, progress monitoring tools) to inform instruction and intervention. Continuously monitor and document student progress toward academic and functional goals. Use formative and summative assessment data to refine instructional practices and interventions. Maintain accurate and compliant records of student performance and progress. Administer and utilize formative and summative assessments to identify students who are at-risk, on grade level, or advanced, and adjust instruction accordingly. Analyze and interpret student data to provide targeted, differentiated instruction.

Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities:

Collaborate with general education teachers, SPED staff, related service providers, and administration to support student success. Participate actively in PLCs, MTSS processes, and data team meetings. Communicate regularly and effectively with families regarding student progress and supports. Contribute to the development of school-wide instructional goals aligned to the Unified Improvement Plan (UIP). Engage in ongoing professional development to strengthen instructional and compliance practices. Special Education Compliance & Instructional Responsibilities Ensure all services are delivered in alignment with IDEA, Colorado Department of Education (CDE), and district requirements. Support implementation of accommodations, modifications, and specially designed instruction as outlined in IEPs. Maintain compliance with timelines, documentation, and procedural safeguards. Support evaluation processes and eligibility determination in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team. Implement and monitor Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and support student social-emotional development. SPED Case Management (Core Responsibilities) Serve as the primary case manager for an assigned caseload (approximately 25-35 students), ensuring all legal and instructional requirements are met. Develop, write, and maintain high-quality, legally defensible IEPs aligned to student needs and data. Plan, schedule, and facilitate annual and triennial IEP meetings, ensuring compliance with timelines and meaningful parent participation. Coordinate and lead communication among families, general education teachers, service providers, and administration. Conduct and contribute to academic and functional evaluations, including data collection, analysis, and reporting. Interpret assessment and progress monitoring data to inform IEP development and instructional decision-making aligned with IDEA and Colorado standards. Monitor and document progress toward IEP goals, ensuring timely and accurate reporting. Track and ensure delivery of IEP service minutes, maintaining compliance with service logs and documentation. Collaborate with MTSS teams to support intervention planning and determine eligibility for special education services. Coordinate services across settings (push-in, pull-out, and general education environments). Maintain organized, audit-ready student records and documentation. Proactively problem-solve and adjust supports based on student performance and needs. Evaluate and document students' academic, behavioral, and functional progress; maintain accurate records and prepare progress reports aligned to IEP goals. Family Advocacy & Partnership Build strong, trusting relationships with families through consistent, transparent, and culturally responsive communication. Serve as a primary advocate for students and families, ensuring their voice is represented in the IEP process. Provide guidance to families on navigating special education services, supports, and procedural safeguards. Facilitate meaningful family participation in IEP meetings and decision-making processes. Partner with families to reinforce academic, behavioral, and social-emotional goals at home and school. Behavior & Social-Emotional Supports Implement and monitor Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) with fidelity. Utilize proactive classroom management strategies aligned with PBIS to support positive student behavior. Teach and reinforce social-emotional skills, self-regulation, and executive functioning. Collaborate with counseling staff, school psychologist and behavior teams to support students with intensive behavioral needs. Use behavior data to inform interventions and adjust supports as needed. Transition Planning (Middle High School Readiness) Support students in developing academic, organizational, and self-advocacy skills necessary for high school success. Collaborate with high school staff to ensure smooth transitions for students with IEPs. Incorporate transition goals into IEPs where appropriate, focusing on independence and long-term success. Prepare students and families for changes in expectations, services, and graduation pathways. Support executive functioning and AVID-aligned strategies to promote college and career readiness. Support for High

ELL/SPED

Population Deliver language-rich, scaffolded instruction that supports both content mastery and language development. Collaborate with ELD staff to align supports for multilingual learners with disabilities. Integrate EL Achieve language functions and WIDA-aligned strategies into instruction and IEP development. Differentiate instruction to support listening, speaking, reading, and writing across content areas. Ensure accommodations and supports reflect both language acquisition and disability-related needs. Monitor progress in both academic and language domains to inform instruction and services.

Additionally:

Be present and engage in Pinnacle functions and organizations to build strong relationships with students, parents, peers, and the community. Maintain and deepen current educational learning on an ongoing basis. Regular and timely attendance. Perform other duties as assigned.

General Abilities, Knowledge, Qualifications, and Skills:

Must possess a valid Colorado Special Education Teaching License with endorsements for the levels and subject areas teaching; mastery of subject matter coupled with a passion to engage and motivate students. Facilitates an innovative classroom environment for students to construct their own learning opportunities using communication, creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, design thinking, engineering, and problem-solving. Comfortable embracing and using education-related technology. Excellent classroom management skills. Innovator with an entrepreneurial drive committed to new ideas in the spirit of charter school possibilities. Knowledge in the use student performance data to drive instructional practices. Ability to collaborate and communicate while appreciating the diverse background of students, parents, peers, and the community. Ability to recognize the importance of safety in the workplace, follow safety rules, practice safe work habits, utilize appropriate safety equipment and report unsafe conditions to the appropriate administrator. Commitment to mission and vision of the school. Creative and flexible in time of change. Demonstrated success as an innovator of creative solutions at work. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent oral and written communication skills, interpersonal skills (conflict management and resolution). Excellent organization skills. Experience with second language learners. Growth-oriented approach; always looking for ways to improve professionally. Professional appearance, attitude, and demeanor.

Working Conditions:

Exposure/Noise Level:

Occasional exposure to airborne particles, fumes, and outdoor weather conditions. Normal school environment with moderate to high noise level.

Mental Functions:

Analyze, collaboration, communicate, compare, compilation of data, compute, coordinate, copy, direct, evaluate, instruct, interpersonal skills, present, report, synthesize.

Physical Activities:

Office environment including computer interface. Bend, reach, sit, stand, stoop, talk, walk, and heavy person-to-person interaction with students, parents, peers, and community members.

Weight and Force Demands :

Moderate physical activity (lifting, pulling, and pushing up to 25 pounds).

Other :

May be required to work outside of normal working hours and travel for work related functions. Why work for Pinnacle? As a member of the Pinnacle PACK, you will have the opportunity to be influential every day and make an impact in the lives of our students and our larger community! Our team and school community are diverse and we embrace that diversity as an encouraging, friendly, open, and supportive team and school. We invest in our team members by providing a balanced, growth-oriented, and supportive work environment, while helping you achieve your career goals within and beyond Pinnacle. Additionally, we offer a robust, comprehensive benefits package that includes: Medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance and AD&D plans (100% employer paid options for the employee)! Participation in the Colorado Public Schools Retirement System PERA (click HERE to learn more)! PERA 401K, 403B, and Roth IRA retirement options! Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) to include Healthcare and Dependent Care! Voluntary life insurance for employees and dependents! Short and Long Term Disability! Colonial add-ons to include accident, critical illness, and hospital plans! Employee Assistance Program with up to three free counseling sessions!

Paid Time Off PTO Days:

8/year If you want to be part of a caring, supportive community and make a difference as part of the Pinnacle PACK, apply now!

About Pinnacle:

Pinnacle Charter School has served the community for more than 20 years. Authorized by the Colorado Charter School Institute, the Pinnacle is a Title I K-12 school supporting more than 2,000 students in achieving excellence in all aspects of their lives. The K-8 building is located at 1001 West 84th Avenue, Federal Heights, CO. The high school is located at 8412 Huron Street, Thornton, CO.

For more information visit https:

//www.pinnaclecharterschool.org/ . Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. Pinnacle Charter School is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to a drug free work environment. We participate in E-Verify as part of our onboarding process.

Colorado Residents:

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.