What are the responsibilities and job description for the School Social Worker position at Heartland Area Education Agency?
Full-Time | 2026–27 School Year | 192-Day Contract
(Johnston Office serving the Des Moines Metro/Service Area 5 on our Agency Map.)
Are you passionate about helping every student reach their full potential?
Heartland AEA is seeking dedicated School Social Workers to join our team for the 2026–27 school year.
Heartland AEA supports 57 public school districts, 44 accredited nonpublic schools, and 2 charter schools across central Iowa. Our service area includes the Des Moines metro and surrounding communities, serving more than 150,000 students.
What You’ll Do
Act as a liaison among the agency, local schools, families, and community organizations to support learners' academic, behavioral, and social-emotional development.
Collaborate, consult, and coach educators in Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) within a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS).
Provide consultation and coaching to general and special education teachers on instructional strategies and behavior management.
Facilitate the implementation of the Child Find reevaluation processes, including evaluations to determine eligibility for special education services.
Assist in developing and implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) aligned with state and federal requirements.
Why Join Us?
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Meaningful, student-centered work
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A collaborative, multidisciplinary team structure
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Extensive professional learning opportunities
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Two-year onboarding and induction process
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Opportunities to pursue various career paths within the Agency
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Full-time employees with benefits
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192-day working contract
What We’re Looking For
Licensure:
- Iowa Bureau of Educational Examiners B-21 School Social Worker Endorsement (Initial or Full Professional Service License), OR
- Iowa Department of Public Health License: Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) or Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Iowa Bureau of Educational Examiners Statement of Professional Recognition.
Education:
- Master’s degree in Social Work or School Social Work from an accredited program
Job Description