Early Childhood Special Education Teacher/Early Childhood Unified Teacher

• Position Type:
    Early Childhood/Early Childhood Teacher
  
  
• Date Posted:
    1/26/2026
  
  
• Location:
    Cottonwood Elementary School
  
  
• Date Available:
    08/03/2026
  
  
• Closing Date:
    Until Filled
  
    

Early Childhood Special Education Teacher / Early Childhood Unified Teacher

Program: Preschool Classroom
School Location: Cottonwood Elementary School � Salina, Kansas

Inspire. Engage. Make a Difference.

Are you passionate about helping young learners grow academically, socially, and emotionally? We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Early Childhood Special Education Teacher / Early Childhood Unified Teacher to join our preschool program. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of 3- and 4-year-old children and their families in a collaborative, supportive environment.

Position Purpose

The Early Childhood Special Education / Early Childhood Unified Teacher provides developmentally appropriate learning experiences for preschool-aged students in a classroom setting. Under the guidance of the Building Principal, the teacher supports student growth, implements individualized instruction, and ensures compliance with federal, state, district, and program requirements.

Program Description

This position serves a preschool classroom at Cottonwood Elementary School, supporting students with and without disabilities, including Preschool Age At-Risk, and Head Start. The program emphasizes inclusive practices, early intervention, and preparation for kindergarten readiness.

Reports To

Building Principal

Supervises

Assigned students

Early Education Classroom Engagement Support / Paraprofessionals and other staff assigned to the program

Key Responsibilities

Instruction & Student Learning

• Provide direct instruction and services aligned with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
• Utilize formal and informal assessments to evaluate student progress and diagnose developmental delays or disabilities
• Employ a variety of instructional strategies and materials to meet diverse learning needs
• Guide learning toward curriculum goals and clearly communicate lesson objectives

Classroom Environment & Management

• Create a positive, inclusive classroom environment conducive to learning
• Establish and maintain clear expectations for student behavior
• Support positive social-emotional development
• Ensure student safety and protect materials and facilities

Collaboration & Family Engagement

• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and needs
• Collaborate with special education teams, general education staff, and service providers
• Participate in IEP meetings and consult with parents and team members regarding student progress
• Work cooperatively with colleagues on school and program initiatives

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate and complete student records in compliance with district, state, and federal requirements
• Prepare lesson plans and instructional materials and provide documentation upon request
• Teaching Requirement for Curriculum: KSDE, Kansas Early Learning Standards
• Supervise and evaluate paraprofessionals and volunteers
• Attend staff meetings, professional development, and serve on committees as required
• Maintain and improve professional competence through ongoing learning
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education or Early Childhood Education
• Current Kansas Teaching License with one of the following:
  • Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) endorsement or
  • Early Childhood Unified (ECU) endorsement

Preferred / Considered

• Other related licenses, certifications, or endorsements will be considered
• Prior successful preschool teaching experience
• Knowledge of child growth and development and best practices in early childhood education

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to create a supportive and positive learning environment
• Strong understanding of early childhood practices for all abilities
• Ability to assess student needs and use data to inform instruction
• Effective classroom management skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Professional integrity, initiative, and strong character

Physical Requirements / Environmental Conditions

• Physical and emotional ability to perform required duties
• Ability to move throughout the classroom and school environment as needed

Evaluation

Evaluation will be conducted in accordance with the USD 305 Negotiated Agreement

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on education, experience, and the district's negotiated salary schedule
• Comprehensive benefits package, which may include:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • KPERS retirement
  • Paid personal and sick leave
  • Professional development opportunities

FLSA Status: Exempt
Equal Opportunity Employer (E.O.E.)