The Special Education Teacher provides individualized educational instruction and support to adolescents with emotional, behavioral, and educational challenges. They develop and implement instructional programs aligned with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and support students in achieving positive educational outcomes.
Requirements summary
A Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Education is required, along with Special Education certification or licensure in Colorado. Experience with IEPs and working with at-risk adolescents in educational or treatment settings is preferred.
Phoenix Academy at Southern Peaks Regional Treatment Center –
Cañon
City,
Colorado
Schedule: Full-Time | Monday –
Friday (Day
Shift)
Salary: $70,000 Annually
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Job Description
The Special Education Teacher provides individualized educational instruction and support to adolescents with emotional, behavioral, and educational challenges in a residential treatment setting. Working under the supervision of the School Principal, the Special Education Teacher develops and implements instructional programs aligned with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), promotes academic achievement, and supports students in achieving positive educational outcomes.
The Special Education Teacher serves as a key member of a multidisciplinary treatment and education team, utilizing trauma-informed and evidence-based instructional strategies to address each student's unique learning, behavioral, emotional, and social needs. This position supports the mission of helping students build skills necessary for academic success, personal growth, and future independence.
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Responsibilities: Of the job and essential elements
Direct instruction & educational services
Provides direct instruction to students with emotional, behavioral, and educational disabilities.
Develops and implements Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in accordance with state and federal regulations.
Creates and delivers individualized instructional plans based on student needs and educational goals.
Develops measurable educational objectives and monitors student progress toward achievement.
Provides instruction utilizing evidence-based and trauma-informed educational practices.
Adapts curriculum, instructional methods, and classroom strategies to meet diverse learning needs.
Develops weekly lesson plans for assigned courses and subject areas.
Benefits
Dental Insurance
Paid Holidays
Vision Insurance
Medical Insurance
Paid Training
Short-Term Disability Insurance
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
Professional Development Opportunities
Basic Life Insurance
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Tuition Assistance Program
Career Advancement Opportunities
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Life Assistance Program (LAP)
Facilitates a structured, safe, and supportive learning environment.
Assesses student academic performance and learning needs through formal and informal evaluation methods.
Utilizes data-driven instructional practices to improve student outcomes.
Supports students in developing academic, social, emotional, and behavioral skills.
Maintains high expectations while providing individualized support and encouragement.
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Special education & iep management
Develops, implements, monitors, and updates Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Conducts assessments and evaluations to support educational planning and placement decisions.
Monitors and documents student progress toward IEP goals and objectives.
Participates in IEP meetings, educational reviews, and multidisciplinary team meetings.
Coordinates educational services to ensure compliance with special education laws and regulations.
Maintains accurate records related to student services, accommodations, and progress monitoring.
Provides recommendations regarding educational programming and interventions.
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Student support & behavioral intervention
Works effectively with at-risk youth experiencing emotional, behavioral, and academic challenges.
Utilizes de-escalation techniques and positive behavioral interventions.
Supports students in developing emotional regulation, coping, and problem-solving skills.
Manages disruptive and challenging behaviors within a structured educational environment.
Collaborates with treatment, behavioral health, and residential staff to support student success.
Maintains a trauma-informed and recovery-oriented classroom culture.
Promotes student engagement, participation, and achievement.
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Collaboration & team participation
Functions as an active member of an interdisciplinary treatment and education team.
Collaborates with educational staff, therapists, counselors, case managers, and administrators.
Participates in treatment planning and educational case reviews.
Communicates effectively with parents, guardians, school districts, and community partners when appropriate.
Supports transition planning and coordination of educational services.
Assists with program development and continuous improvement initiatives.
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Documentation & compliance
Maintains accurate educational records and student files.
Completes required reports, evaluations, progress monitoring documentation, and educational records.
Ensures compliance with:
IDEA
Section 504
FERPA
Colorado Department of Education requirements
Agency policies and procedures
Maintains confidentiality of student and organizational information.
Documents time worked accurately.
Performs other duties as assigned.
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Adhere to and follow
The By-Laws of the Corporation and as set forth in the Articles of Incorporation.
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Job qualifications
Education and experience
Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in Education from an accredited college or university required.
Special Education certification or licensure required or eligible in the State of Colorado.
Experience teaching students with emotional, behavioral, or learning disabilities preferred.
Experience working with at-risk adolescents in educational, treatment, or residential settings preferred.
Experience with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) required.
Knowledge of special education law and compliance requirements required.
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Licenses & certifications
Colorado Special Education Teaching License or eligibility required.
Successful completion of all required criminal background checks and clearances.
Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening and orientation training.
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Required skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Strong classroom management and behavior intervention skills.
Knowledge of IEP development, implementation, and compliance.
Ability to work effectively with students exhibiting emotional and behavioral challenges.
Knowledge of special education laws and educational regulations.
Strong organization and documentation skills.
Ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary teams.
Ability to utilize data-driven instructional methods.
Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
Ability to maintain professionalism and flexibility in a dynamic environment.
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Job competencies
Special education instruction
Develops and delivers individualized educational programs designed to meet diverse learning needs.
Classroom management
Creates structured learning environments that support student engagement and behavioral success.
Behavioral intervention
Implements effective behavior support strategies and crisis prevention techniques.
Student advocacy
Promotes educational access, inclusion, and positive student outcomes.
Communication
Communicates effectively with students, families, educational teams, and treatment professionals.
Collaboration & teamwork
Works collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to support holistic student development.
Documentation & compliance
Maintains accurate records and ensures compliance with educational regulations and standards.
Trauma-Informed practice
Utilizes trauma-responsive approaches to support learning, behavior, and recovery.
Critical thinking & problem solving
Analyzes educational and behavioral challenges and develops effective intervention strategies.
Cultural competence
Demonstrates respect and responsiveness to diverse backgrounds, experiences, and learning needs.
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Benefits: & PERKS
Eligible employees may receive
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Basic Life Insurance
Short-Term Disability Insurance
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
Life Assistance Program (LAP)
Tuition Assistance Program
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Paid Holidays
Paid Training
Professional Development Opportunities
Career Advancement Opportunities
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Physical demands
Physical requirements
Standing, walking, and moving throughout classroom and campus environments.
Sitting for instructional planning, documentation, and meetings.
Ability to safely intervene and respond to behavioral situations when necessary.
Ability to move throughout a residential treatment and school environment.
Ability to supervise students in classroom and community-based educational activities.
Lifting requirements
Ability to lift and carry educational materials and supplies as needed.
Working conditions
Residential treatment center and educational facility environment.
Classroom and vocational training settings.
Structured behavioral and therapeutic educational environments.
Interaction with adolescents experiencing behavioral, emotional, and educational challenges.
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Accident, health hazard and security knowledge
Trauma-Informed Care Principles
Student and Educational Safety Procedures
Crisis Prevention and Intervention Techniques
FERPA Compliance
Workplace Safety Procedures
Fire and Emergency Preparedness Procedures
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General requirements
Maintain professional licensure and certifications as required.
Attend all required trainings, meetings, and professional development activities.
Maintain confidentiality of student records and protected information.
Support organizational mission, vision, and values.
Demonstrate professionalism, ethical conduct, and sound judgment.
Promote a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
Perform all assigned duties in accordance with agency and educational standards.
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Drug-Free workplace statement
Abraxas Youth & Family Services maintains a drug-free workplace. Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening, criminal background clearances, and applicable regulatory screenings is required.
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The statements contained herein describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.
Schedule flexibility
Work schedules are based on program and operational needs. Additional duties, trainings, meetings, or educational activities may occasionally require schedule adjustments.
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About company
Abraxas Youth & Family Services, an affiliate of Apis Services, Inc. and Inperium, Inc., is a national nonprofit human services organization dedicated to Building Better Futures for youth, adults, and families. Abraxas provides a wide array of services including alternative education, outpatient counseling, residential treatment, detention, shelter services, and community-based programs.
Abraxas and its affiliates are committed to trauma-informed care, diversity, equity, inclusion, and creating opportunities for individuals to achieve meaningful and lasting success.
Abraxas Youth & Family Services and its affiliates provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
Market context
Colorado classroom teacher demand remains steady
Colorado classroom teacher roles are typically in steady demand, especially in districts and programs that need educators who can meet licensure, safety, and student-support requirements. These roles are competitive because schools often look for candidates with current credentials, classroom experience, and the ability to complete required certifications quickly; this platform’s AI-summarized job requirements and benefits help you review the original posting faster and save research time. Before applying, confirm your certification timeline and gather proof of background-check readiness and any required training.