TAP Teacher

The Ankeny Community School District (CSD) is renowned for its excellence across academics, athletics, the arts, and various activities. Situated in central Iowa, just 6 miles from Des Moines, Ankeny CSD caters to over 12,800 students from preschool through 12th grade, making it the 7th largest district in the state. With a strong reputation for its commitment to student success and a competitive salary and benefits package, Ankeny CSD is a standout choice for both educators and families seeking a high-quality educational environment.

JDE: 4.10

TAP Teacher: Transition Alliance Program

Purpose Statement

The Transition Alliance Program (TAP) Teacher develops, coordinates, and oversees services within the TAP program to introduce, explore, and facilitate vocational opportunities for students with disabilities. This position focuses on equipping youth with the necessary skills for independent living, academic learning, and career readiness, ensuring a seamless transition from high school to competitive community employment 

Job Title:  TAP Teacher 

Salary: See Teacher Salary Schedule  

Benefit Summary: C

Reports To:  Building Principal

Wage/Hour Status: Exempt

Qualifications

Experience: 

• Experience working with transition-age youth with disabilities, vocational rehabilitation, or community-based instruction preferred. 

Education & Licensure:

• Bachelor’s degree in position related area
• Iowa State Teacher License

Endorsement Requirement:

• Appropriate K–12 Special Education endorsement(s) issued by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners.

Required Skills: 

• Strong instructional planning and delivery aligned to district curriculum and learning goals.
• Ability to use assessment data to guide instruction and support student growth.
• Effective classroom management that fosters a positive, safe, and inclusive learning environment.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with students, families, and colleagues.
• Ability to collaborate professionally and engage in continuous learning and improvement.

Essential Functions  

Program Coordination & Direct Student Support

• Comprehensive Service Delivery: Carry out expected duties including student intake, screening, evaluation, goal development, community placement, vocational support, vocational counseling, and ongoing stakeholder communication.
• Vocational Guidance: Provide individualized student vocational counseling aligned with personal and professional student goals.
• Individualized Planning: Oversee the development and implementation of individual plans for employment (IPE) and support transition plans for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Work Readiness Skills: Assist students with writing resumes, filling out job applications, practicing interview techniques, teaching positive work habits, and developing interpersonal skills that promote long-term employment.
• Independent Living Support: Support community living skills, including proper hygiene, budgeting, use of public transportation, and other vital daily living skills.
• Summer Programming: Develop and implement summer activities for students and families in cooperation with Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS).

Community & Employer Relations

• Job Development: Work cooperatively with community business owners and employers to develop supportive relationships, aiming to increase vocational access for students with disabilities.
• Employer Consultation: Encourage employers to utilize job incentives, consult with employers in problem-solving situations, and coordinate external services based on individual student needs.
• Worksite Supervision: Oversee job coaching and training activities on work sites, and complete evaluation and exploration activities at job shadowing sites.

Collaboration & Communication

• Stakeholder Engagement: Communicate effectively and maintain transparent relationships with TAP participants, their parents/caregivers, high school staff, and IVRS representatives.
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate actively with the TAP Coach, IVRS counselors, school administrators, school counselors, and special education teachers to ensure a cohesive support network.
• Inclusive Relations: Demonstrate the ability to develop positive, supportive relationships with a wide variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds and populations.

Compliance, Administration & Technology

• Case Management: Provide services to youth in the areas of assessment, intake, job development, and placement activities (including short-term job coaching).
• Record Keeping: Maintain meticulous, accurate, and up-to-date case records and necessary documentation as required by the TAP Program framework.
• Clerical Duties: Complete other routine record-keeping and clerical duties necessary to sustain program compliance.
• Technical Proficiency: Utilize computer and digital skills necessary to perform job searches, maintain data, and assist students with online vocational and educational computer activities.

Professional Responsibilities & Compliance 

• Maintains accurate documentation to support student progress and legal compliance; implements required accommodations and services; and adheres to all applicable federal, state, and district laws and policies. Actively participates in meetings and professional development to enhance knowledge and refine instructional practices while supporting a safe learning environment.

Attendance & Reliability

• Demonstrates consistent and reliable attendance and punctuality in alignment with district expectations, recognizing the importance of being present for students. Maintains instructional continuity and strong relationships by ensuring students experience consistency, support, and stability in their learning environment.

Other Functions 

• Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned.
• Provide excellent customer service and assistance to all employees, fostering a welcoming and approachable atmosphere.
• Work efficiently and independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate respect and professionalism in all interactions with colleagues, students, and families.
• Use positive and professional communication in all interactions.
• Adhere to safety protocols and policies established by the Ankeny Community School District to ensure the safety of oneself and others.
• Support District goals and objectives while adhering to all District policies, contributing to the overall success of the school community.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Working Environment 

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors
The usual and customary methods of performing the position functions require the following physical demands: occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, reaching, and standing. Work is performed in a variety of environments, including event settings that may involve noise, crowds, and variable temperatures. This position requires the ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain effective decision-making under pressure.

Terms of Employment

Work year established by the District; salary according to schedule adopted annually.

Clearances

Background Clearance

Evaluation

Job performance will be evaluated annually in accordance with District policies and procedures.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

The Ankeny Community School District is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer.