Special Education Teacher

Onward Education; Elk River (MN); On-site; USD 74,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

Onward Education is partnering with a Sherburne County, MN school district to hire a highly experienced Special Education Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year.

The ideal candidate will develop and implement IEP-aligned lessons, adapt curricula for diverse disabilities, use assistive technology, and collaborate with families, paraprofessionals, and multidisciplinary teams. This on-site, full-time role offers an hourly rate of $54–$61.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Special Education or related field.
• State Special Education teaching license/certification required.
• Licensure in Developmental Disabilities K-12 and/or ASD preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized lesson plans aligned with students' IEP goals.
• Modify curriculum and instructional methods to meet diverse learning needs of students with disabilities.
• Utilize assistive technology and specialized instructional materials.
• Assess student progress regularly and adjust instruction accordingly.
• Establish a structured, supportive, and engaging classroom environment.
• Implement positive behavior support strategies and BSPs.
• Maintain safe and inclusive learning space for students with varying disabilities.
• Collaborate with paraprofessionals, itinerants, and other support staff; communicate with parents/guardians.
• Participate in IEP meetings, evaluations, and interdisciplinary team discussions.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress, attendance, and IEP documentation.

Skills

IEP development

Disabilities knowledge

Assistive technology

Communication

Collaboration

Patience & flexibility

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Special Education

State Special Education license

Developmental Disabilities K-12 licensure (preferred)

Autism Spectrum Disorders licensure (preferred)

Experience with students with disabilities

Job description

Onward Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top opportunities with the nation's leading schools. We're partnering with a school district in Sherburne County, MN to hire a highly experienced Special Education Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year.

The ideal candidate demonstrates a strong understanding of IEP development and implementation, with experience supporting students with a variety of disabilities, including autism, intellectual disabilities, and behavioral disorders. They are proficient in utilizing assistive technology and adaptive instructional strategies to meet diverse learning needs. Additionally, they possess excellent communication and collaboration skills, along with the patience, flexibility, and dedication necessary to foster student success in special education settings.

Position Details:

• Location: Sherburne County, MN

• School Year: 2026-2027

• Schedule: Full-Time, Monday-Friday (40 hours/week)

• Work Setting: On-site

• Hourly Rate: $54 - $61

Key Responsibilities:

Instruction & Curriculum Development:

• Develop and implement individualized lesson plans aligned with students' IEP goals.
• Modify curriculum and instructional methods to meet the diverse learning needs of students with disabilities.
• Utilize evidence-based teaching strategies, assistive technology, and specialized instructional materials.
• Assess student progress regularly and adjust instruction accordingly.
• Classroom & Behavior Management:
• Establish a structured, supportive, and engaging classroom environment.
• Implement positive behavior support strategies and individualized Behavior Support Plans (BSP).
• Maintain a safe and inclusive learning space for students with varying disabilities.
• Collaboration & Communication:
• Work closely with paraprofessionals, itinerants, and other support staff to meet student needs.
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress and IEP goals.
• Participate in IEP meetings, evaluations, and interdisciplinary team discussions.
• Compliance & Documentation:
• Maintain accurate records of student progress, attendance, and IEP documentation.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Special Education or related field.
• Certification: State Special Education teaching license/certification. Licensure in Developmental Disabilities K-12 and/or Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) preferred.
• Experience: Prior experience working with students with disabilities in a center-based or special education setting preferred.

Skills:

• Strong understanding of IEP development and implementation.
• Knowledge of various disabilities, including autism, intellectual disabilities, and behavioral disorders.
• Proficiency in using assistive technology and adaptive teaching strategies.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Patience, flexibility, and a passion for working with students with special needs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) or other evidence-based interventions.
• Training in crisis intervention and de-escalation strategies.
• Familiarity with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift/move students as needed and assist with mobility.
• Comfortable working in a structured, high-needs classroom setting.
• May require occasional evening meetings or professional development sessions.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local special education laws and regulations.
• Administer assessments to track academic and developmental progress.

Why Apply?

This is a unique opportunity to leverage your special education expertise in a highly collaborative role focused on student evaluations, educational planning, and consultation. You'll partner with educators, administrators, and multidisciplinary teams across multiple charter schools to help ensure students receive the services and supports they need to succeed. Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid schedule while making a meaningful impact on students, families, and school communities.