Kapaa Elementary: Grade K-5 Special Education Teacher, 69919 (2026-01276)

The Mild to Moderate Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing specialized instruction and behavioral support to students with diverse learning needs, including but not limited to Learning Disabilities (SLD), Other Health Impairments (OHI), Mild Intellectual Disabilities, and Emotional Disabilities. The teacher ensures that students have access to the General Education curriculum through accommodations, modifications, and specially designed instruction (SDI) as outlined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Essential Duties and Responsibilities Instructional Leadership Specially Designed Instruction (SDI): Plan and implement evidence-based instruction in literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional skills tailored to individual student needs. Curriculum Adaptation: Modify General Education grade-level standards (Common Core State Standards) to meet the functional and academic levels of students. Differentiated Delivery: Utilize a variety of instructional strategies, including small group intervention, co-teaching models, and one-on-one support. IEP Management & Compliance Case Management and Progress Monitoring: Oversee the development, implementation, and annual review of IEPs for a designated caseload of students. Data Collection: Maintain rigorous progress-monitoring data to track student growth toward IEP goals and objectives. Collaboration: Schedule and facilitate IEP meetings with parents, administrators, and related service providers (Speech, OT, PT, etc.). Legal Adherence: Ensure all timelines and documentation comply with Chapter 60 (Hawaiis Special Education Law) and federal IDEA regulations. Behavioral & Social Support Positive Behavior Support: Implement school-wide and individualized behavior plans to promote a safe and productive learning environment. Advocacy: Foster a classroom culture of self-advocacy, encouraging students to understand their learning profiles and utilize their accommodations. Collaboration: Work closely with School Counselors and Behavioral Health specialists to support the "whole child." Knowledge: Deep understanding of the IEP process, inclusive practices, and the Hawaii Multi-Tiered System of Support (HiMTSS). Preferred Skills Experience with 95% Group literacy intervention or i-Ready diagnostic data. Strong communication skills for navigating complex family dynamics and advocate relationships. Ability to lead and supervise Educational Assistants (EAs) and Paraprofessional Tutors (PPTs) within the classroom. Working Conditions Must be able to manage a classroom environment that may include students with behavioral challenges. High level of collaboration required with General Education grade-level teams to ensure the "Least Restrictive Environment" (LRE) is maintained for all students. The Kapaa Elementary Way At KES, our Special Education team is integral to our "Smart Start" philosophy. We are looking for a teacher who is student-centered, data-driven, and committed to the belief that all students can achieve growth when provided with the right support and high expectations.
Preferred Qualifications: Valid Special Education Mild/Moderate license from the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board.

Desired Experience: Special education mild/moderate classroom experience in a K-12 school setting.

Desired Knowledge: Plan and facilitate Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings; e xercise independent and professional judgment in carrying out daily functions; maintain an effective work pace under pressure to meet deadlines; grasp new concepts quickly and apply them effectively; work effectively with others.

The Hawaii State Department of Education is committed to hiring highly qualified teachers in every classroom. With the exception of designated Career and Technology Education (CTE) positions, the minimum qualification to apply for a teacher, librarian or counselor position is a Bachelor's Degree.

If you are hired without completing a Teacher's Education Program, you have a maximum of 3 years to obtain a valid Hawaii teaching license. You must enroll in a Program to continue employment with the Department. Within each year of employment, you must satisfactorily demonstrate active pursuit towards meeting Hawaii licensing requirements, as set forth by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board (HTSB). It is your responsibility to ensure the program you have enrolled is aligned with the teaching line you are hired in.

Upon hire you will need to have a valid Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit. You may apply for your Hawaii teaching license on the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board Website ( www.teachinhawaii.org to review the eligibility requirements for all bonuses, differentials, and initial salary placement. To obtain a Hawaii Teaching License, which is required to receive any salary differentials, please apply with the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board at www.hawaiiteacherstandardsboard.org .

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