What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Teacher position at Keystone Area Education Agency?
Special Education Teacher – Specialized Therapeutic Behavior Program (2026-2027)
Elkader, Iowa
$65,000 to $90,000
Note: Special Education Teacher Instructional Strategist I applicants are welcome!!!*
Visit www.keystoneaea.org/employment to learn more about this exciting opportunity!
Keystone Area Education Agency is seeking Special Education Teachers within a Specialized Therapeutic Behavior Program beginning in the 2026–2027 school year. If you are a dedicated educator passionate about supporting students with significant social-emotional, behavioral, and/or cognitive needs we want to learn more about you!
Program & Location Information
This is a newly developed program for the 2026–2027 school year, located at the Keystone AEA facility in Elkader, Iowa.
Position Overview
Special Education Teachers in this program provide specially designed instruction and behavior intervention for students with complex needs. This role extends beyond the classroom, including collaboration with school districts, reintegration planning, and ongoing support to ensure student success across educational environments.
This position emphasizes strong instructional practices, behavior expertise, and meaningful collaboration with families, districts, and AEA staff.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Education required; Master’s degree preferred
- Iowa Teaching License with Instructional Strategist II (Behavior Disorders/Learning Disabilities) endorsement
- *Applicants holding an Instructional Strategist I endorsement who are willing to pursue and obtain their Instructional Strategist II endorsement will also be considered (updated 5/26/26)
- Experience in behavior management and working with at-risk student populations preferred
- BCBA certification preferred but not required
- Ability to travel to program sites and school districts within the AEA service area
Compensation & Contract Details
- 193-day contract
- Typical salary range is $65,000–$90,000 , depending on education and experience, with higher placement possible for exceptionally qualified candidates
- Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, IPERS, and paid leave
Key Responsibilities
- Provide specially designed instruction (SDI) to meet academic and behavioral needs of students
- Develop and implement individualized instructional plans aligned to Iowa Core Standards
- Utilize assessment data and progress monitoring to inform instructional decisions
- Design and implement behavior interventions using evidence-based strategies
- Collaborate with resident school districts on curriculum, instruction, and student supports
- Develop and support student reintegration plans, including providing on-site district support
- Continue consultation and support following student transition back to the resident district
- Participate in IEP, FBA, and BIP development in collaboration with AEA and district teams
- Engage in ongoing professional learning and program development
- Skills & Leadership Attributes
- Strong relationship-building skills with students, families, and school teams
- Effective communication and collaboration skills
- Ability to manage a classroom environment with complex behavioral needs
- Professional judgment and ability to maintain compliance with documentation requirements
- Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic and evolving program
- Ability to lead a classroom team and support continuous improvement through data
If you have any additional questions about joining our team, please contact Teresa Bushman, Human Resources Associate, at tbushman@aea1.k12.ia.us or (563)241-3036.
Salary : $65,000 - $90,000