Summary:

The job of the Functional Learning and Preschool Special Education Teacher is to provide specially designed instruction and individualized supportF for students with significant developmental, adaptive, communication, behavioral, and functional learning needs in preschool through fifth grade settings. This position creates and maintains a positive, structured, safe, and inclusive learning environment that supports students’ academic, communication, social-emotional, behavioral, adaptive, and functional growth.

This position supports students through individualized programming, evidence-based instructional practices, communication systems, adaptive supports, positive behavior supports, and functional life skills instruction aligned to student needs and IEP goals. The teacher collaborates closely with classroom staff, related service providers, paraeducators, specialists, and families to support student success across educational settings.

In addition to supporting K–5 functional learning students, this position assists in supporting and coordinating preschool special education programming, instructional systems, schedules, student supports, and collaboration with preschool staff and paraeducators.

The teacher supervises students within the classroom and school functions while maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment and positive working relationships with staff and families.

Job Details:

180 day contract (7 hours/day, 5 days/week)
Salary
- Base: $59,881 - $118,042
- 5 Enrichment Days: $1,663.36 - $3,278.94
Eligible for medical/dental/vision benefit through the School Employees Benefit Board (Division of the WA State Health Care Authority)
Eligible for retirement benefits with the WA State Department of Retirement Systems
Sick and Personal Leave
Affiliation: Rainier Education Association

Essential Functions:

Instruction, Curriculum & Intervention Delivery
- Provides specially designed instruction, intervention support, and inclusive services across various settings (individual, small-group, push-in, pull-out) to address academic, behavioral, communication, adaptive, and social-emotional needs.
- Utilizes differentiated instruction, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and evidence-based practices to plan, deliver, monitor, and adjust instruction.
- Develops, modifies, scaffolds, and adjusts curriculum, instruction, and instructional goals to meet individual student needs and progress toward IEP goals.
- Supports students in developing communication, coping, problem-solving, self-regulation, adaptive, social, and functional life skills.
Assessment, Planning & Progress Monitoring
- Recognizes, assesses, documents, and monitors student progress using diagnostic assessments and data to inform instructional decision-making and intervention planning.
- Communicates learning targets, expectations, and student progress in an age-appropriate, supportive, and meaningful manner.
- Maintains accurate records and documentation in accordance with district, state, and federal requirements.
Classroom Management & Environment
- Establishes and maintains a positive, safe, structured, and inclusive learning environment built on relationships, clear expectations, positive behavior/communication supports, and sensory tools.
- Organizes instructional systems, schedules, materials, and classroom routines to effectively meet student and program needs.
Team Leadership & Collaboration
- Leads the classroom team by establishing structured routines, clear expectations, and facilitating regular briefings with paraeducators to adjust support strategies.
- Provides guidance, modeling, and support to paraeducators and staff regarding instructional routines, behavior supports, communication systems, and safety procedures.
- Collaborates effectively with classroom teams, grade-level teams, specialists, related service providers, administrators, and families to support student success.
- Problem-solves as part of a collaborative team focused on supporting the academic, behavioral, independent, and social-emotional growth of students.
Compliance & Professional Governance
- Follows School Board policies, district policies, and procedures.
- Performs the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Qualifications:

Valid Washington State Teaching Certificate with Special Education endorsement required.
Early Childhood Special Education experience preferred.
Current WSP/FBI background and fingerprint clearance.

Requirements:

Professional Knowledge Base
- Strong content knowledge and training in child development, early childhood practices, area(s) of endorsement, functional learning, and evidence-based instructional practices.
- Deep understanding of IDEA, IEP development/implementation, student accommodations/modifications, and special education compliance.
- Knowledge of current state education codes, district policies, and student privacy laws (FERPA).
- Knowledge of and experience with state-mandated testing, progress monitoring, and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).
Core Skills & Competencies
- Demonstrated proficiency in written, oral, and digital communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to build positive, respectful, and supportive relationships with students, families, staff, and community members.
Professional Attributes & Commitment
- Demonstrated commitment to Cultural Competency, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (CCDEI) standards and inclusive educational practices.
- Commitment to contributing to a positive school culture built on relationships, professionalism, collaboration, and high expectations for all students.
- Demonstrated willingness to reflect, seek understanding, accept feedback, participate in professional growth systems/supervision, and continuously grow professionally.
- Must be dependable, punctual, flexible, and maintain strict confidentiality and professionalism in all aspects of the position.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand or walk for prolonged periods, perform a variety of specialized tasks, maintain records, and establish cooperative working relationships.
Position may entail lifting/carrying up to 25 lbs., reaching/handling, clear oral communication, and near/far visual acuity.

Required Application Documents:

Completed District Online Application & Current Resume: Highlighting relevant K-5 teaching experience, student teaching, or related work with youth.
Cover Letter: Outlining your teaching philosophy, experience with diverse student populations, and why you are a great fit for this specific school community.
Three (3) Professional Letters of Reference: Must be from recent supervisors who can attest to your instructional skills and professional character (e.g., principals, vice-principals, or university supervisors).
Copy of Valid Washington State Teaching Certificate: (Or evidence of eligibility to obtain one by the start of the school year) showing proper K-5/Elementary Education endorsement(s).
Unofficial Transcripts: From all undergraduate and graduate coursework (official transcripts would be required if hired).

**Current District employees: To apply, please submit a letter of interest, detailing qualifications to Rainier School District Human Resources*

*CLOSES 6/8/2026*

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: Rainier School District provides equal opportunity for all applicants and staff in recruitment, hiring, retention, assignment, transfer, promotion, and training. Such equal employment opportunity shall be provided without discrimination with respect to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, honorably discharged veteran or military status, pregnancy, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, the use of a trained guide dog or service animal, or any other basis prohibited by law. We also provide equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups.

Inquiries concerning equal employment opportunity or the application of may be directed to:
- Title IX & Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator: Kristin Robinson, robinsonk@rainier.wednet.edu, 360-446-2205, P.O. Box 98 Rainier, WA 98576
- Bilingual Programs & ADA Coordinator: Justin Gurnsey, gurnseyj@rainier.wednet.edu, 360-446-7406, P.O. Box 98 Rainier, WA 98576
- Section 504 Coordinator: John Beckman, beckmanj@rainier.wednet.edu, 360-446-2205, P.O. Box 98 Rainier, WA 98576