Special Education Teacher

Job Description

Position: Special Education Teacher
Reports To: Building Principal / Director of Special Education
FLSA Status: Exempt
Contract Length: As per Master Contract / District Policy

Position Overview

The Special Education Teacher provides specially designed instruction and services to students with disabilities in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Iowa Code, and district policies. The teacher collaborates with general education staff, parents, and support personnel to ensure that students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) make academic, social, and behavioral progress.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Instructional Planning & Delivery

  • Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs that comply with state and federal guidelines.

  • Provide direct instruction aligned to Iowa Core standards and student needs.

  • Differentiate and adapt lessons, materials, and assessments for diverse learners.

  • Utilize evidence-based instructional strategies and progress monitoring tools.

• Collaboration & Communication

  • Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusive practices and co-teaching.

  • Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress.

  • Participate in IEP meetings, multidisciplinary team meetings, and parent conferences.

• Assessment & Data

  • Conduct formative and summative assessments to guide instruction.

  • Collect and analyze student performance data to adjust instructional strategies.

  • Maintain accurate documentation of services, progress, and compliance requirements.

• Behavior & Social-Emotional Support

  • Implement Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and other behavior management systems.

  • Support students social-emotional growth and self-advocacy skills.

• Compliance & Professionalism

  • Ensure compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and Iowa Administrative Code.

  • Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards in all student matters.

  • Engage in professional growth aligned with Iowa Teaching Standards.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelors degree in Special Education or related field required.

• Licensure: Valid Iowa teaching license with appropriate Special Education endorsement(s).

• Skills & Abilities:

  • Strong instructional and behavioral management skills.

  • Ability to design, implement, and monitor individualized instruction.

  • Effective collaboration, communication, and organizational skills.

  • Familiarity with assistive technology, progress monitoring, and inclusive practices.

Working Conditions

• Work in classroom, small group, and one-to-one instructional settings.

• Frequent collaboration with staff, families, and outside agencies.

• May involve lifting or assisting students with mobility or personal care needs.

Evaluation

Performance will be evaluated according to the districts teacher evaluation system, aligned with the Iowa Teaching Standards.