Gifted Teacher

This is a new position for the 2026-2027 school year.

TITLE: GIFTED TEACHER  

QUALIFICATIONS:  

1. Valid Missouri Teaching Certificate 
2. Missouri Gifted Education Certification or willingness to obtain with district-specific timeline
3. Ability to communicate effectively  
4. Basic Technological Skills
5. Strong understanding of gifted education research, best practices, instructional strategies, and assessment tools  

REPORTS TO: Building Principals and/or Asst. Superintendent  

JOB GOAL: The Gifted Education Teacher is responsible for designing and delivering specialized instruction to meet the academic, creative, and social-emotional needs of gifted and high-ability learners in accordance with Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Gifted Education guidelines. This educator identifies students for services, plans differentiated learning experiences, and collaborates with staff and families to nurture and help advance students’ potential while supporting the district’s mission of student success.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:  

1. Instructional Responsibilities:
1. Develop and implement engaging, rigorous curriculum aligned with DESE Gifted Education expectations and district goals.
2. Provide instruction that challenges students in critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, research, communication, and leadership.
3. Use a variety of instructional models (pull-out, push-in, enrichment clusters, project-based learning, independent study) based on student needs and district programming.
4. Ensure learning experiences promote academic growth as well as curiosity, innovation, and independent learning.
2. Student Identification & Assessment
1. Coordinate the student identification process according to Missouri state guidelines.
2. Assist in administration, score, and interpret assessments (cognitive, achievement, creativity, observational tools).
3. Maintain accurate records, including screening results, eligibility documentation, progress monitoring, and program participation.
4. Communicate evaluation procedures and decisions clearly to families and staff.
3. Program Coordination & Compliance
1. Assist in the planning, evaluation, and improvement of the gifted education program.
2. Ensure the gifted program meets DESE requirements for state approval and reporting.
3. Prepare necessary documentation for audits, program reviews, and annual reporting.
4. Maintain confidentiality and comply with district policies, state regulations, and ethical standards.
4. Collaboration & Communication
1. Work closely with classroom teachers to extend enrichment opportunities and support differentiation within the regular classroom.
2. Provide resources and professional development to teachers on strategies for high-ability learners.
3. Communicate regularly with families regarding program goals, student progress, and enrichment opportunities.
4. Collaborate with administrators, counselors, and other educators to support students’ academic and social-emotional needs.
5. Student Support
1. Create a learning environment that fosters respect, risk-taking, and positive self-concept for gifted learners.
2. Support students in developing advanced learning habits—time management, research skills, creative thinking, and problem-solving.
3. Promote social-emotional development and address unique needs such as perfectionism, asynchronous development, and high sensitivities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to move around in the instructional area. Ability to lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. 

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Base annual contract of nine months as per approved school  calendar; compensation as per adopted salary schedule.  

TYPE OF POSITION: Exempt 

EVALUATION: Evaluated annually by Building Principal and/or Asst. Superintendent

Salary: Teacher Salary Schedule

Interview Dates: TBA

Official Anticipated Hire Date is January 21st.

Further questions then please contact Mrs. Shannon Deckard at sdeckard@warsawk12.org or (660) 438-7120