This specialist role focuses on improving student achievement by providing individualized support to schools and leading professional learning communities for teacher and school leaders. The role involves designing and leading district professional learning for teachers, partnering with Directors of Schools, and supporting effective specialized instruction while infusing the District's vision for Culturally Responsive Education (CRE). The specialist also advises schools on all legal requirements related to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Responsibilities
Plan and facilitate professional development for schools on effective specialized instruction and inclusion, providing school staff with coaching and advice around curricular materials so that they are able to offer best first instruction and standards-aligned specialized instruction
Provide consultation, support, and direction to schools and special education teams so that they can meet all school-level Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) expectations and challenges and effectively manage special education services in support of the academic growth of students with disabilities; elevate school-level concerns, ensuring awareness around possible issues with implementation of IDEA that could result in legal risks
In partnership with the academics team, develop and facilitate cycles of related professional learning for the District and its school teams to ensure schools meet measurable student outcomes tied to district priorities, such as rigorous standards-based instruction, culturally responsive teaching, instructional systems and data-driven instruction
Facilitate learning cycles across schools, including collaboratively setting learning goals, engaging in observations and coaching participants
Model exemplar culturally sustaining practices for teacher leaders, such as instructional planning at the unit and lesson level, data meetings and feedback conversations
Analyze district local assessment data and classroom observations and use it to inform school support
Work collaboratively on a team to achieve actionable and observable results at the student level; contribute to a strong team culture grounded in district values and a commitment to excellence and service to schools
In collaboration with the multilingual education team, develop professional learning and coaching opportunities for teachers and leaders on best practices for supporting the achievement of multilingual learners
Support with district curriculum adoption and implementation
Other duties as assigned
Requirements
Bachelor's Degree in Special Education or related field is required
Master's Degree in Special Education or related field is preferred
Four (4+) years teaching experience in Special Education or relevant subject area with at least two (2+) years of experience in coaching other teachers is required
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Special Education Teacher or Related Services License with the Colorado Department of Education is required
Director of Special Education license is preferred
Knowledge with Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel and Outlook
Effective time management and organizational skills
Skilled at providing professional development and coaching for adult learners
Effective communication skills
Strong attention to detail
Effectively handle multiple demands and competing deadlines
Work collaboratively with others on a team
Aptitude for variety and changing expectations and fast-paced environment
Knowledge of effective specialized instruction
Ability to travel to sites throughout the District
Understanding of IDEA and all current laws/court decisions related to special education
Valid driver's license, appropriate insurance, and clean driving record for the past three (3) years
Lead for racial and educational excellence and work to dismantle systems of oppression and inequity in our community, along with believing in and supporting all students so they feel seen and heard with access to high quality education
Live and work with a permanent home address in Colorado while working with us
Ability with or without accommodations to meet the physical demands of the position
Benefits
A culture that values Equity, Accountability, Integrity, Collaboration and Fun with a shared vision that Every Learner Thrives
Time off
Health and wellness benefits
PERA Retirement
Important Details
Application deadline: October 23, 2026
About the Company
Denver Public Schools offers a culture that values Equity, Accountability, Integrity, Collaboration and Fun with a shared vision that Every Learner Thrives. Its values are Students First, Integrity, Equity, Collaboration, Accountability, Fun.
