IA PE Teacher

Physical Education Teacher (Grades K–8) Job Description

Position Summary

Horizon Science Academy in Iowa seeks a dedicated Physical Education Teacher to provide high-quality instruction that promotes physical fitness, teamwork, healthy habits, and lifelong wellness for students in grades K–8. The teacher will design and deliver engaging physical education instruction aligned to Iowa standards while also supporting students’ understanding of health, nutrition, and personal wellness.

Because the position is full-time and physical education sections may not occupy the full instructional day, the teacher will also support the school through instructional push-in support, MTSS interventions, and operational supervision during the school day and before/after school activities.

This position reports to the Building Principal.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, Health Education, or a related field from an accredited institution.

Certification

• Valid Iowa Teaching License
• Appropriate Physical Education endorsement for grades K–8
• Additional Health endorsement preferred or ability to deliver health-related instruction aligned to Iowa standards.

Experience

• Prior teaching experience preferred.
• Experience working with elementary or middle school students is strongly preferred.

Essential Responsibilities

Physical Education Instruction

• Plan and deliver engaging Physical Education lessons aligned with Iowa Core standards and school instructional goals.
• Promote physical fitness, motor skill development, coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
• Teach age-appropriate concepts related to exercise, hygiene, health, nutrition, and wellness.
• Develop lessons that build physical literacy, confidence, and healthy habits.
• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse student abilities and needs.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and inclusive gymnasium and activity environment.
• Inspect and maintain equipment to ensure safe use.

Student Learning and Assessment

• Assess student progress in physical skills, fitness, and health knowledge.
• Maintain accurate records of student performance and participation.
• Use assessment data to adjust instruction and support student growth.
• Support schoolwide instructional goals and student achievement efforts.

Student Support and MTSS

• Support school MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) efforts through:
• Small group interventions
• Academic or behavioral support push-ins
• Structured physical activity breaks when appropriate
• Collaborate with teachers and administrators to support student engagement and success.

School Community and Culture

• Establish and maintain a positive and respectful learning environment.
• Encourage teamwork, leadership, responsibility, and respectful behavior.
• Communicate effectively with students, staff, and families regarding student progress and wellness.
• Participate in professional learning communities, staff meetings, and school initiatives.

Operational and School Support: Because this is a full-time role, additional responsibilities may include:

• Instructional push-in support in classrooms
• Supervision during arrival, lunch, recess, or dismissal
• Support during before- or after-school programs or activities
• Assistance with school events, field days, and wellness initiatives
• Collaboration with staff to support overall school operations

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain professional competence through ongoing professional learning.
• Follow all school policies, procedures, and student safety protocols.
• Maintain accurate records as required by school policy and Iowa law.
• Collaborate with staff to support a positive school culture and strong instructional program.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of physical education pedagogy and child development
• Knowledge of health and wellness concepts
• Ability to deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate instruction
• Strong classroom management and student engagement skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff and families
• Ability to support schoolwide initiatives and MTSS interventions
• Ability to maintain safe and organized learning environments

Terms of Employment

• Full-time, 10-month position
• Salary and benefits determined according to school board compensation policies
• Position evaluated annually by the Building Principal.