Special Education Teacher (2026-2027) - 1.0 FTE at Anne Sullivan Elementary

Sioux Falls School District; Sioux Falls (SD); On-site; USD 52,821 - 59,485; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Innovative online IEP system

Dedicated IEP facilitators

Virtual Office support

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Sioux Falls is seeking a dedicated Special Education Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. The role involves fostering a positive, inclusive environment where students with diverse needs are empowered. Responsibilities include planning instructional tasks, implementing curriculum, and maintaining effective classroom dynamics. Ideal candidates will hold a valid South Dakota teaching certificate and demonstrate skills in communicating and leading students effectively. Join a supportive community that celebrates diversity and achievement!

Qualifications

• Requires a valid South Dakota teaching certification with K-12 Special Education endorsement.
• Experience working with students with challenging behaviors is preferred.
• Knowledge of IEP process and special education law is essential.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare instructional tasks related to learning goals.
• Implement District curriculum effectively and maintain high expectations.
• Establish a positive learning environment and classroom rules.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Conflict management

Leadership

Adaptability to diverse learning needs

Education

Bachelor's degree with South Dakota teaching certification

Job description

We want YOU here!

This position is for the 2026-2027 school year. Join the dedicated team at Anne Sullivan Elementary, where we build a nurturing community focused on academic success, leadership, and cultural diversity. As a Leader in Me school with a vibrant multilingual student population, we empower students to reach their full potential through leadership development, inclusive learning, and exceptional growth. Make a difference in a school that celebrates diversity and achievement—apply today!

Learn more about Anne Sullivan Elementary at: https://www.sf.k12.sd.us/o/ase

Discover the unparalleled support awaiting special education teachers within the Sioux Falls School District!

• With an innovative online IEP system boasting a 96% satisfaction rate among our teachers, and dedicated IEP facilitators streamlining meetings, educators have more time to focus on what truly matters—nurturing their student's growth.
• Our Virtual Office, offered multiple times a month, provides instant support and guidance via Zoom for challenges Special Educators face.
• Join the Special Services Learning Academy which equips educators with the tools they need for success and work with Instructional Coaches to ensure swift curriculum mastery.
• When it comes to managing classroom dynamics, our esteemed behavior team, including Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), are on hand to provide expert guidance and support.

In the Sioux Falls School District, you're not just an educator; you're an integral part of a supportive, collaborative team committed to unlocking every student's highest potential.

REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION LEVEL

Bachelor's degree and endorsements in the areas of teaching assignment. Certification or licensure: South Dakota teaching certificate

EXPERIENCE DESIRED

At least one year of work experience in a position requiring interpersonal interaction skills and knowledge of strategies to support students with challenging behaviors.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Constant hand-eye and mind-eye coordination and hearing; intermittent speaking, standing, walking and writing. The ability to provide physical management to students with behavior or self-care needs.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Excellent oral and written communication skills. Skills in human relations, leadership and conflict management. Knowledgeable of teaching techniques that meet the diverse needs of students. Demonstrated skills in computer word processing, spreadsheets and databases. Knowledge in implementation of IEP process and special education law. Training in assessment and interpretation of information.

COMPREHENSIVE BACKGROUND CHECK REQUIREMENT

Candidates are required to complete a comprehensive background check, including a state and FBI criminal history check with fingerprinting, a sex offender registry check, and a child abuse and neglect registry check. All components must be completed prior to the start of employment and repeated every five years thereafter.

CERTIFICATION

This position requires a valid South Dakota teaching certification with the K-12 Special Education endorsement. Please note, endorsement requirements may vary based on specific course assignments.

Questions about SD teaching certification: South Dakota Department of Education

YOUTH SUICIDE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION TRAINING

South Dakota Codified Law 13-42-71 requires certified educators to complete at least one hour of approved youth suicide awareness and prevention training every five years. Compliance is verified through district accreditation reviews. You will be required to provide your most recent certificate of completion prior to starting employment with the Sioux Falls School District.

Visit https://doe.sd.gov/suicideprevention/ to view the list of approved trainings and detailed instructions for completion. These trainings listed are the only accepted trainings per SDCL 13-42-71. Please carefully review the options before selecting a training as unapproved trainings will require you to retake an approved course.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & DUTIES

1. Ability to Plan and Prepare Instructional Tasks
   • Plan instructional tasks that are meaningful and related to learning goals
2. Provide Instruction to Students
   • Implement District curriculum
   • Maintain a strong instructional focus utilizing the elements of effective instruction
   • Communicate a high level of expectation
   • Communicate clear learning goals to students
   • Adapt instruction to meet the needs of all students
   • Address various learning styles
   • Sequence content at an appropriate pace
   • Use appropriate level of questioning to promote understanding
   • Relate lesson content to prior and future learning
   • Require students to summarize information in written and/or verbal form
   • Appropriately recognize and reinforce individual student effort
   • Represent knowledge/information non-linguistically through a variety of methods
   • Organize students in cooperative or ability groups when appropriate
   • Require and apply knowledge
   • Display enjoyment, humor, and enthusiasm for teaching and expect students to enjoy learning
   • Conduct ongoing assessments for learning
3. Provide Effective Classroom Environment
   • Establish appropriate classroom rules and procedures that are clearly understood by all students
   • Effectively and consistently enforce rules and follow procedures
   • Redirect students naturally and immediately without disrupting others
   • Be well-organized and have all materials, equipment, etc., ready for immediate use
   • Carry out smooth and effective transitions (e.g., from one activity to another, as students enter and leave the room)
   • Maximize time on purposeful instructional tasks
   • Begin and end class period with focus on learning
   • Establish a positive learning environment
4. Participate in Professional Growth Opportunities and Demonstrate Professionalism
   • Participate in ongoing professional growth
   • Participate in school/professional and/or community organizations or events
   • Complete routine assigned tasks and comply with District requirements
   • Promote the education profession
   • Communicate effectively and professionally with colleagues, parents and students
   • Conduct parent‑teacher conferences in accordance with District policy
5. Follow District and building policies and procedures.
6. Support of District goals.
7. Report student progress to parents and students.
8. Perform other duties as assigned.
   • Case manages student individual education programs (IEP) to meet specialized needs of students with disabilities
   • Coordinates special education documentation regarding the special education process including referral, evaluation, IEP development and implementation, and related processes in compliance with district, state and federal requirements including timelines
   • Implements specialized instruction utilizing researched strategies and interventions based on the needs of the students
   • Participates in IEP meetings and communicates with parents on a routine basis keeping them informed of their child's progress in compliance with district proceduresMaintains student special education records and related information as outlined in district procedures and in a confidential manner

View the complete job description here: Special Education Classroom Teacher

PAY INFORMATION

The 2026-2027 salary schedule has not yet been released. Based on the 2025-2026 salary schedule, salary is starting at $52,821 to $59,485 per year, based on experience.

View the complete salary schedule here: 2025-2026 Teacher Salary Schedule

Pay Day: Last working day of each month.

HOURS & FTE

1.0 FTE, 40 hours per week, 9 months

CALENDAR

2025-2026 New SFEA Staff Calendar - 2026-2027 calendar coming soon!

BENEFIT INFORMATION

Benefits (only for positions 20 hours per week or more)

CURRENT DISTRICT EMPLOYEES

All current District employees interested in applying must complete an application.

Post-Offer Criminal Background Check Required

Relay Services for Deaf or Hard of Hearing: Dial 711, then the desired number

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